One of the most important factors is the type of vinyl that you choose.
There are three basic types:
- Vinyl Tile
- Vinyl Plank
- Vinyl Sheet
Sheet vinyl is the thinnest and can be installed over almost any surface. Tile vinyl is thicker and more durable, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens. Plank vinyl is even thicker and more durable than tile, making it perfect for heavily used areas like commercial kitchens.
You want something that will complement your kitchen décor, but that will also stand up to wear and tear. Some colors and patterns are better suited for kitchens than others.
Types of Flooring
The Vinyl Tile
The wear layer is a PVC film with an embossed pattern that gives the tile its appearance and texture. The backing layer is made of either paper or non-woven fiberglass and serves as the adhesive for the tile. Vinyl tiles are available in both square and rectangular shapes and in a variety of colors and textures.
They can be installed over most existing flooring materials, including wood, ceramic tile, linoleum, and concrete. Installation is generally simple enough that it can be done by the homeowner with some basic tools.
Vinyl tiles are a good choice for homeowners who want a durable floor that is easy to maintain.
The Vinyl Plank
It is made of PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, which is a type of plastic. This material is durable and waterproof, making it a good option for areas that are likely to get wet, such as the kitchen or bathroom. Vinyl planks also come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find one that will match the look of your home.
If you are looking for an affordable flooring option that is easy to maintain, vinyl planks may be a good choice for you.
The Vinyl Sheet
It is made from PVC, which is a synthetic material, and it is available in a variety of colors and finishes. Vinyl sheet flooring is easy to clean and maintain, making it a popular choice for busy areas.
It also has a relatively low price point, making it an affordable option for many homeowners.
It is practical and affordable kitchen flooring, but it does have drawbacks. For example, it cannot be glued down directly on top of wood floors because it is too thin. If you decide to install this type of flooring, you’ll need to use a floating installation method.
Pros and cons of each type of vinyl flooring for kitchen
When it comes to kitchen flooring, there are a variety of materials to choose from. You can go with tile, stone, wood, or vinyl. Each material has its own set of pros and cons.
Here we will take a look at the pros and cons of vinyl flooring for kitchens:
Vinyl Flooring Pros:
- 100% moisture resistant- making it a superior choice for rooms where there are often spills or leaks
- Relatively easy to install and low maintenance due to its water-resistant nature
- Vinyl floors are easy to clean- all you need is some hot water, soap, and a mop
- Available in many colors, patterns, and styles which makes it versatile
- Durable since it’s made from a material other than wood or stone
Vinyl Flooring Cons:
- Less durable than tile or stone but more cushioned and keeps you warmer on the floor
- It may not last as long as other materials if not properly taken care of
Installation of Vinyl Flooring in the Kitchen
Installing vinyl flooring for a kitchen can cost anywhere from $6 to $7 per square foot. If you are replacing your entire kitchen, there is no need to move the cabinets.
The price of installing varies depending on the type of material and the installation process, which includes hiring an installer or doing it yourself.
1. Making sure the surface is level
Before beginning any work, make sure that the subfloor is flat and level. Preparing the subfloor is essential before laying the vinyl flooring. You should remove any existing floor covering to ensure that the new flooring will fit correctly.
2. Select your underlay
Choose the right underlayment for your project. The underlayment helps protect the vinyl flooring by preventing damage caused by moisture and heat. It also provides cushioning between the floor and the wall.
3. Install the underlay
Start rolling out the underlayment over the area where you want to lay the vinyl flooring. Make sure the edges are even and straight. Use a tape measure to check the length and width of the room.
Put it against the wall as close as you can get it without touching the walls. Then, pull the roll back and forth until it fits perfectly.
Use tape on each row to attach them together. Take your time to avoid any wrinkles. Once the first layer is done, repeat the same steps on the remaining rows.
4. Laying your Vinyl floor
Divide the width of the room by the width of a plank to find the number of full rows you will need. Lay your last full plank. To ensure easy installation, the last plank should be 5 cm wide.
Planks should be mixed up to avoid laying identical patterns and different color variations close together. Start your first row of planks parallel to the longest wall, but not flush with it
Align successive rows so that their end joints are never lined up. Leave at least 30 cm between rows. Continue by clicking the first plank of the second row into the first plank of the first row.
5. Cut your Vinyl floor
If you need to cut your vinyl floor, use a utility knife to cut along the edge of the plank. Be careful when cutting because the blade may slip off the plank. Wear gloves and draw lines using a pencil as your cutting lines.
If using a saw, make sure the surface is facing up. You’ll need to cut through the plank.
Maintenance and cleaning of vinyl flooring for kitchen
Maintaining a vinyl floor in the kitchen is easy–all you need is some water and soap! In fact, this type of flooring is one of the easiest to clean. Simply use a mop or cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris on the surface.
If your vinyl flooring becomes stained, you can use a commercial cleaner or even just vinegar and water. Be sure to test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire floor.
Vinyl floors are also resistant to moisture, making them ideal for kitchens. However, if your kitchen experiences a lot of spills, be sure to clean them up as soon as possible so that the liquid does not seep into the cracks and cause long-term damage.
In addition, vinyl tiles and rolls are easy to install, providing a clean, dry surface is present. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Should vinyl flooring go under kitchen cabinets
Some experts say yes to putting flooring under kitchen cabinets. However, others say no. If you decide to put vinyl flooring under kitchen cabinets, make sure the space is large enough to accommodate the thickness of the flooring. Also, consider how much weight there is in the cabinet.
I guess it also depends if you are installing new cabinets as this will have to be taken into consideration.
If installing around existing cabinets, make sure to cut the edges to fit. Of course, it’s more difficult if the existing cabinets are already installed.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading our article about vinyl flooring for kitchens. We hope that you found it helpful. Different flooring options have different costs and sustainability options, so be sure to weigh your choices carefully.
Waterproof laminate flooring options are being manufactured by a handful of companies internationally, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.
