Vinyl is the second largest-selling plastic in the world, behind polyethylene/polypropylene. Its popularity is due to its low cost, versatility, and durability.
Vinyl is used in many applications, but floor construction is one of the biggest ones. Vinyl tiling is one of the best-selling types of flooring. That is because it offers many advantages.
What is vinyl flooring made of? That depends on the composition and type you choose.
This article covers the basics of vinyl flooring and the different configurations available. Keep reading to find out which one may be best for your renovation.
What Is Vinyl Flooring Made Of?
Vinyl is a type of plastic. It was first created in 1872 by a German chemist named Eugene Baumann, but it did not become widely used until well into the 20th century.
What is vinyl flooring made of? All vinyl contains polyvinyl chloride, or “PVC.”
This is the same material used in PVC piping and other construction materials. It also is used in the automotive and healthcare industries, as well as to make music records.
Vinyl is made by first extracting ethylene from petroleum, oil, or natural gas, and chlorine from salt sources. These combine to make ethylene dichloride, which goes through a process of polymerization to render a vinyl chloride monomer.
A vinyl resin is then extracted. It can then be combined with other agents to create a vinyl compound.
These include plasticizers, stabilizers, and pigments. Additives and ratios of them depend on the different effects you wish to achieve. For instance, they can be adjusted to increase durability, flexibility, and aesthetics.
After mixing, the vinyl is heated and pressed. After cooling, it can be cut into tiles or other configurations and made into floor materials.
What Are the Different Vinyl Floor Types?
Beyond the primary ingredients listed above, there are many different types of vinyl flooring. Vinyl composition tile (VCT) is a basic flooring used mainly in commercial applications, hospitals, schools, and retail stores. Due to its simple design, it is one of the most economical vinyl tile options available.
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) uses different colors and textures to achieve a unique look. It can be made to mimic hardwood, stone, and ceramic tile. It still retains all the other benefits of vinyl tile, such as ease of maintenance and water resistance.
Sheet vinyl is another type of vinyl floor. It is a continuous sheet of flooring material that comes in a roll, which makes it easy to install. It also is available in a range of colors, patterns, and textures
Find Vinyl Flooring for Your Home
Now that you have an answer to “What is vinyl flooring made of?”, you can determine if it is the right choice for your home. With so many design and finish options, you can be sure to find vinyl flooring that fits your personal preferences and budget.
Since 1947, LX Hausys has been making products to improve living spaces, and we are now the largest building materials company in Korea. We specialize in vinyl flooring and keep a variety of types in stock. Contact us today to discuss floor upgrades in your home.