Has anyone tried to tell you that a vinyl plank floor is perfect fo your home? It's hard to tell if this person is trying to sell you something that makes them lots of money or if it actually the flooring proudct to buy.
Overall, lvp is affordable, it almost looks like a real solid wood floor and it's waterproof. But just as there are two sides to every coin... what about the disadvantages of vinyl plank flooring? This post dives into some key concerns – from durability under heavy foot traffic to environmental impact due to toxic chemicals in the cheaper low-quality flooring products out there. We'll also touch upon installation hurdles along with design limitations that sunlight exposure can bring. Why not tag along with me?
Table of Contents:
- Durability and Longevity of Vinyl Plank Flooring
- Environmental Impact of Vinyl Plank Floors
- Safe LVP Certifications
- Installation Process and Maintenance Requirements
- Water Resistance and Moisture Issues
- Comfort Level and Sound Absorption Properties
- Cost Considerations and Resale Value
- FAQs in Relation to Disadvantages of Vinyl Plank Flooring
- Conclusion
Durability and Longevity of Vinyl Plank Flooring
When it comes to the lifespan of vinyl plank flooring, a well-maintained SPC vinyl floor can last up to 20 years. However, let's delve into how this durability holds up under high foot traffic. 
How High Foot Traffic Impacts A Vinyl Plank or Vinyl Tile Floor
The wear layer on vinyl planks acts as a protective shield against daily use. High foot traffic will beat down on a wear layer and that is a disadvantage to lvp. A thicker wear layer is more durable and will fight against the signs of wear or scratch damage. The problem is, most of the LVP sold has thinner wear layers and show more wear than cheap laminate flooring. This isn't to say that good vinyl planks aren't present, but if a maority of these types of floors are getting damaged from light use, its important to see it as a downside for the whole product category. The sister product to vinyl plank is known as lvt or luxury vinyl tile, and it shares the same building blocks as lvp. The disadvantage of the off-brand cheap vinyl flooring is heavy foot traffic can wear down on the plank to cause the vinyl finish texture to fade as well.
Environmental Impact of Vinyl Plank Floors
The production process for vinyl flooring has stirred up some environmental concerns. The production of cheap off-brand vinyl plank flooring can stuff a few hazardous substances in a product to get it out faster and cheaper. This would produce an emission of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). This is probably the main disadvantage of vinyl plank flooring as it can negatively impact your home's indoor air quality.
Safe LVP Certifications
Vinyl planks are primarily made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Low quality and non-compliant (Mainly Chinese) manufacturers don't feel the need to produce a product with minimal VOC off-gas properties. Several manufacturers have been making strides towards more environmentally friendly practices by reducing their VOC levels drastically which can be measured by 3rd party VOC testing from FloorScore® or Greenguard®. The FloorScore® Private Label certification is available to customers of certified manufacturers. FloorScore® is a Private Label certification assessment to use the FloorScore brand and logo for customers to know a floor isn't toxic. Greengaurd® is another unbiased certification to test for harmful chemicals off-gassing from a flooring product.
In addition, once installed in homes or businesses, these products may continue releasing small amounts of VOCs into the atmosphere over time — often years after installation. In high concentrations indoors - where we spend most of our lives - these gases can cause headaches, dizziness and respiratory problems among other health issues. The disposal process is another factor contributing negatively to environmental sustainability. If not properly recycled or disposed of when they've served their purpose after 20 odd years or so, they end up piling as non-biodegradable waste in landfills across America.
Installation Process and Maintenance Requirements
You can either install them as a floating floor or glue them into place. The former is an easy-to-install method that lets the planks rest on top of your subfloor without any adhesive. This allows for expansion and contraction with temperature changes. On the other hand, gluing down gives more stability but requires additional preparation work. No matter which technique you pick, be sure to adhere to the producer's directions. They're there to help.
Cleaning and Caring for Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl floors are quite forgiving when it comes to maintenance requirements for vinyl plank flooring. A regular sweep or vacuum will keep dirt from scratching up your beautiful new floors. For deeper cleaning, use a damp mop with a mild cleaner designed specifically for vinyl floors. Although they're durable, these floors aren't indestructible. Avoid using harsh cleaners like bleach or ammonia because they could damage the wear layer over time.
The Pros and Cons of SPC & WPC Flooring
A SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) Vinyl core has a solid core made of limestone, pvc vinyl, and plastic stabilizers. This combination of rigid material makes it incredibly durable, resistant to impacts, and won't expand or contract with temperature changes like hardwood or laminate do. However, the cons of vinyl plank flooring with an SPC core it can feel harder underfoot and might not be as comfortable if you stand a lot on it. On the other hand, a WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) Vinyl core is made from a soft wood composite. This gives wpc vinyl flooring a soft laminate floor feel. WPC usually haves thicker planks to try to increase the stability and sound insulation. What are the vinyl plank disadvantages of WPC? It is not tough or durable and it will dent easily.
Water Resistance and Moisture Issues
One of the big selling points for vinyl plank flooring is its water resistance. Most planks sold nowadays are waterproof, not just resistant. This makes them a popular choice in spaces prone to spills or moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms. Top-rated local flooring contractors, however, warn that while these floors can handle a splash here and there, they're not exactly flood-proof. That means if your dishwasher decides to create an indoor pool party without inviting you first, it could spell trouble for your floor. Especially since any water trapped under a vinyl floor isn't mold-proof.
Comfort Level and Sound Absorption Properties
If you're looking for a flooring option that offers both comfort underfoot and excellent sound absorption, vinyl plank might just be your perfect match. Unlike hardwood floors or stone surfaces which can feel cold and hard, the tactile experience of vinyl plank flooring is soft yet supportive. This comes in handy when standing for extended periods in areas like the kitchen. It's also easier on little feet running around. The softer surface helps reduce fatigue from prolonged standing or walking within your home. But there's more to love about vinyl planks than their cozy feel. One often overlooked advantage is how well they dampen noise compared to other types of flooring materials such as tile or laminate.
No More Echo Chambers
You know that annoying echo you get with some types of floors? Well, not with vinyl planks. They absorb sound rather than reflecting it back into the room. This makes them an ideal choice if you have a bustling household filled with lively conversations, kids playing games, pets scampering around...you name it.
A Silent Partner
The impressive sound absorption properties of these floor coverings mean fewer distractions while working from home or watching TV at night without disturbing others sleeping upstairs. In fact, many homeowners report being pleasantly surprised by this unexpected perk after installing their new floor.
Careful Consideration Required
All said though; every type of flooring has its pros and cons - even our beloved vinyl planks. While we've waxed lyrical about its superior comfort level underfoot and fantastic noise reduction qualities so far (and rightly so), potential buyers should also take note: Not all products are created equal. Before making a purchase, it is essential to do your research in order to ensure you get the best product for your needs. So, if it's comfort and tranquility that top your flooring wish list, then vinyl plank should definitely be on your radar. It truly offers a harmonious blend of cozy underfoot feel and superior sound absorption properties - all wrapped up in one affordable package.
Cost Considerations and Resale Value
The cost of vinyl planks can differ drastically, with prices going from as low as half a dollar to an astounding five bucks per square foot. This price range depends on factors like the quality, design, thickness of the wear layer, and whether it's luxury vinyl or traditional sheet vinyl. Though it may seem costly compared to other flooring options, the long-term savings from its durability and low maintenance requirements can make vinyl flooring a wise investment. The flooring installation and overall lower installation cost are tempting. You might be asking yourself: Can I use my home equity loan for this? Well, yes. If you've been prequalified for a home equity loan, then this could be an affordable way to finance your new floor.
But here comes another important question: Does installing vinyl plank add resale value? Unfortunately, unlike real wood or stone flooring types that often add significant value to homes upon reselling them because they are perceived as high-quality materials by potential buyers; Vinyl plank floors don't always increase your property’s resale value due to their synthetic nature. This is not necessarily bad news though. If properly maintained, vinyl flooring offers a good return over time thanks to their longevity and ability to last over 15+ years. Vinyl flooring doesn't usually need regular repairs and replacements like hardwood. Exposure to natural light with proper UV protection coating applied to vinyl flooring will keep it in good shape for years to come. To wrap things up, you can make this flooring option work financially in both the short term and long-term. Vinyl flooring doesn't need to boost the resale value of the house significantly to be a quality flooring option for your home.
FAQs in Relation to Disadvantages of Vinyl Plank Flooring
Why should you avoid vinyl flooring?
Cheap Vinyl flooring can release toxic chemicals, is prone to scratching and denting, and may not add much resale value to your home.
Does vinyl flooring devalue a home?
It's possible. While vinyl plank floors are affordable and versatile, they might not boost your home’s resale value like hardwood or tile would.
How long does vinyl plank last?
If you care for it properly, expect your vinyl plank floor to hang around for up to 20 years. But remember - heavy foot traffic could shorten its lifespan just like vinyl tile.
Does vinyl plank scratch easily?
The wear layer of the planks protects against scratches but isn't invincible. Heavy furniture or pet claws can still leave their marks on lvp and lvt floors.
Conclusion
So, you've danced with us through the disadvantages with vinyl plank flooring and vinyl tile flooring. It's clear that this popular choice is not without its pitfalls. The impact of volatile chemicals during the production of cheap, typically Chinese manufacturing, vinyl plank products could raise eyebrows too. You also learned about flooring vinyl installation hurdles, maintenance requirements, and potential moisture issues to watch out for. Although cost-effective, it may not add much resale value to your home like a solid or engineered floor would.
