A renaissance of sorts is underway in the vinyl flooring industry. Choice is no longer limited to sheet vinyl, peel-and-stick with its contrived designs and faux finishes, and vinyl composition tile. Now, there are luxury vinyl tiles and planks that look like real stone and natural timber.
Benefits of luxury vinyl
Like its forefathers, luxury vinyl tile is durable and well-suited to high traffic areas. And unlike some of its natural counterparts, it will not splinter, chip or crack.
Luxury vinyl is also a great option for creating a healthy living environment as it does not hide dirt, bacteria and allergens. Luxury vinyl has better moisture resistance, allowing clients to have the look of hardwood without the concerns brought on by fluctuations in humidity. And unlike hardwood, any spills on luxury vinyl can be wiped up easily without damaging the floor.
Luxury vinyl is warm to the touch and quiet underfoot unlike many natural surfaces and laminate. Minimal cleaning is required to keep luxury vinyl looking great. No sanding, polishing or sealing is required.
Breathtaking realism
When done right, luxury vinyl is virtually indistinguishable from the natural surface it is designed to replicate. Technological advances allow for the production of luxury vinyl that looks and feels realistic.
Vast array of design options
Beyond the practical price and durability of luxury vinyl tile, the ability to incorporate design elements into a luxury vinyl tile project makes this product a real standout. Its ease of installation and vast array of design components open up a world of possibilities. Design strips, decorative borders and emblems can transform a regular space into a spectacular talking point.
The verdict
The benefits of vinyl have been known for some time; it’s warm, quiet, comfortable, hygienic, easy to maintain and practical. What makes luxury vinyl tile stand out from traditional vinyl and many of the commoditized products are realism, individualism and versatility.
Kelsey Myers is marketing coordinator for MIRA Floors and Interiors, a full-service flooring supply and installation store in Surrey, B.C. Tim Craik is general manager for Go Resilient Canada.
