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Which Flooring? The Pros and Cons of Sheet Vinyl Flooring
by Jane Smallman
Home Improvement Ideas Columnist
There are so many different types of flooring on the market today that it can be difficult to choose between them. They all have their pros and cons, but sheet vinyl flooring has got to be at the top of the list for practicality combined with low cost.
The Advantages of Sheet Vinyl Flooring
Appearance. Sheet vinyl is available in an enormous variety of patterns, colors and surface textures that will match any decorating style.
- Cost. It is relatively inexpensive.
- Easy to Install. Vinyl flooring can be laid over a wide range of surfaces, including existing flooring. Sheet vinyl is particularly easy to lay and makes a good beginner's DIY project.
- Low Maintenance. Sweep regularly and use a damp mop occasionally to keep your vinyl flooring in top condition. No need to wax or polish.
- Soft and Quiet Underfoot.
- Easy to Repair. If damaged, sheet vinyl flooring can be patched quite easily with a matching off-cut.
The disadvantages of sheet vinyl flooring
- Shows Wear. Usually after about five years (although higher quality vinyl flooring may last longer).
- Can Look Out-of-date. Styles change and your floor may become dated.
- Bumps and Bubbles may develop over time, along with curled edges, scratches, stains and holes.
- Fading. Colors and patterns can fade in the sun so vinyl flooring is not suitable for parts of the house that are in strong sunlight for many hours a day.
Which rooms would benefit most from sheet vinyl flooring?
Sheet vinyl is especially appropriate for use in your kitchen, bathroom, or hallway, because it is:
- Durable (meaning that it can withstand high traffic and dirt brought in from outside)
- Waterproof (kitchen spills and water overflowing from the bath or shower are easily dealt with)
- Soft (so a dropped dish in the kitchen is less likely to break)
About the author
Jane Smallman runs a mountain guiding business with her husband. Her early training was in hotel management and she has worked in the hotel industry in France, Holland, the US and the UK. Following this she worked in an administrative capacity for a number of not-for-profit organizations in the UK, including the International Planned Parenthood Federation and the Refugee Legal Centre. While doing this she earned a degree in Social Sciences through distance learning with the Open University. After graduation she progressed to the University of Sussex as a full-time student where she was awarded a Masters Degree in Social and Political Thought.
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