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Hiring vinyl flooring contractors is the key to a successful floor installation project. Modern vinyl flooring is not the cheap linoleum of the past; it includes highly durable products like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), prized for their resilience and water resistance.
While some homeowners attempt DIY wood flooring with click-lock planks, the longevity of your floor depends entirely on subfloor preparation. This guide covers the types, costs, and why you need professional vinyl floor installers for your next flooring project.
Vinyl Flooring: What's the Best Type for Your Home?
Vinyl flooring is a versatile category of flooring products defined by its layered, synthetic construction. Because there are so many options, your flooring contractor will recommend the specific type that fits your room's needs.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
These are individual planks that install with a click-lock system. They are designed to mimic the look and texture of real hardwood flooring, making them perfect for main living areas and basements.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
These individual tiles are designed to mimic stone or ceramic. They often include deeply beveled edges for a grout effect for an authentic look, making them a great choice for bathrooms.
Sheet Vinyl
This comes in large, continuous rolls. Because it has very few seams, it is the most resistant to large spills and is often the most affordable option on the market.
Hybrid Resilient Flooring
This features a high-density core (WPC or SPC) topped with a vinyl layer. It provides maximum stability and is 100% waterproof flooring.
For areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, vinyl's superior water resistance makes it a better choice than traditional hardwood or laminate flooring.
Vinyl Flooring Installation Cost Guide
The cost of flooring is highly competitive for vinyl. Your final price depends on the quality of the flooring material and the complexity of the job, especially subfloor preparation.
|
MATERIAL TYPE |
AVERAGE INSTALLED COST (per sq. ft.) |
NOTES |
|
Sheet Vinyl |
$3.50 to $7.00 |
Best for large, open spaces with minimal cuts. |
|
LVP/LVT |
$5.50 to $12.00 |
Higher material cost; often includes click-lock planks for faster labor. |
Why You Need Professional Vinyl Floor Installers
While many people attempt to install click-lock planks themselves, professional vinyl floor installers are essential for three reasons:
1. Subfloor Preparation
This is the most crucial step. A professional flooring installer uses tools and leveling compounds to ensure the subfloor is perfectly smooth. Any bump or imperfection will show through the vinyl over time.
2. Moisture Control
A professional will inspect and install a moisture barrier (often a plastic sheet) over a concrete floor to prevent groundwater from damaging the floor's adhesive bond. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that proper moisture barrier installation is critical to prevent future mold issues under the floor.
3. Seaming
For sheet vinyl, a pro is required to minimize seams and properly weld or seal the seams and edges with specialized sealants. This ensures the floor remains 100% waterproof.
Vetting Vinyl Flooring Contractors
When hiring a vinyl flooring contractor, look for a company that prioritizes quality control and customer service over low bids.
Look for Proven Experience
Seek contractors known for specializing in resilient floors, local pros who have invested in their showrooms and project portfolios, and who offer a strong installation warranty. Look for companies with local ownership that rely on client feedback.
Check Financials and Ethics
Always hire a licensed and insured professional. Ask about financing options and if they offer a detailed, itemized quote. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides clear guidelines on checking contractor credentials and avoiding misleading pricing.
Verify Installation Standards
Ask about their training. Contractors who adhere to standards set by groups like the Floor Covering Installation Contractors Association (FCICA) have the technical knowledge to handle subfloor preparation and moisture testing correctly.
FAQs About Vinyl Flooring
Is LVP or sheet vinyl better for water resistance?
For overall waterproof flooring, sheet vinyl is technically superior because it has almost no seams, eliminating leak paths. However, modern LVP/LVT products are 100% waterproof themselves and are easier to repair if a plank is damaged.
Is LVP better than laminate flooring?
Yes, if moisture is a concern. LVP is a vinyl product, making it inherently resistant to water. While a laminate floor is cheaper and durable against scratches, it is primarily wood-based and will swell and warp if exposed to standing water.
What is the difference between LVT and ceramic tile?
LVT is a synthetic product that is soft underfoot, waterproof, and easy to install as a floating flooring system. Ceramic tile is a fired clay product that requires messy tile installation (mortar and grout), but is harder and more suitable for complex porcelain or ceramic tile installation designs.
Find Your Vinyl Flooring Contractor Today
A new vinyl flooring installation is a smart investment that provides incredible durability and beautiful, waterproof floors. Don't risk your next flooring project on poor subfloor preparation.
Mr. Remodel connects you to our vast network of trusted professionals who are licensed, reviewed, and reliable. Our service is quick and easy, allowing you to compare no-obligation quotes from the best vinyl flooring contractors in your area.
Start your free, no-obligation vinyl installation estimate now.
