Right from removing the old vinyl flooring to installing the new one, specific process should be followed. This process may vary according to the type of vinyl used. Therefore, you will be better off if you know about the choosing the right type, process for removing the old flooring and installing the new one.
Removing Techniques of Old Vinyl Flooring
In older homes, vinyl flooring is the most favored choice. If you want to remove your old flooring and install a new one however, you will need to make sure that the flooring contains no asbestos. Most old vinyl flooring made prior to 1986 contained asbestos in the tiles or even in the backing materials.
You will first need to identify asbestos and understand that these are microscopic dust particles that can cause breathing hazards when they get in the air. It can lead to asbestosis or lung cancer commonly known as mesothelioma. It is therefore required to follow the state’s laws while removing such materials.
Types of Vinyl Flooring
Next you will need to choose from the wide range of vinyl flooring material available in the market and these are:
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Solid core luxury vinyl is incredibly firm, ensuring ultimate durability and stability. The solid core offers the natural beauty, exceptional performance and comfort.
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Fusion core luxury vinyl consists of multiple layers that provide ultimate protection from scratches and scuffs. These have a waterproof core and they complement your style surely.
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Flex core luxury vinyl is another type available on the market that is most traditional. It also has a very durable wear layer.
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Grout luxury vinyl has all the best characteristic of both worlds. It is warm for your feet, durable, easy to maintain and gives more realistic visuals such as stone and hardwood looks.
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Sheet vinyl is another type of vinyl that has a layered construction namely felt and fiberglass.
Fiberglass is the most popular choice for its loose lay installation with releasable adhesive or no adhesive at all. It is easy to repair, does not curl up, does not shrink, crack or warp.
Steps for Preparation
You can follow given points to prepare for installing vinyl flooring and it involves:
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Preparing the subfloor – This is required for smooth installation. However, vinyl can be laid on existing floor such as linoleum, parquet, tiles and laminate. Make sure that the subfloor is clean, even and dry to eliminate bumps underneath.
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Prepare your flooring – By the time you clean your subfloor you must make sure that the flooring is acclimatized for at least 24 hours before installation. You can choose from both printed and inlaid vinyl flooring types to accommodate as part of your commercial and living space. Inlaid vinyl floors are ideal for those areas that receive high footfall, such as schools, institutions and organizations and shopping malls.
The Installation Methods
You must follow the sheet direction while installing vinyl flooring considering the main light source. However, for narrow rooms and corridors it can be laid along the length of the room irrespective of the direction of light. Make sure that the joints and the doorways are as directed in the product description.
There are three ways to install depending on the size and usage of your room. For small room loose-lay installations is suggested and for medium rooms, ensure semi-loose installation.
For a clean finish, add a skirting to protect the edges of the vinyl sheet and to add elegance. Vinyl floors are colorful; you can easily customize them with the DIY floorboard installation, or by hiring experts. Moreover, they are durable, and they also have sound absorbing properties, thereby reducing noise-related problems.
