If you want to get new floors for your home, vinyl is a great choice. Not only is the cost to install vinyl flooring very affordable, but the material is also very durable. Vinyl floors are commonly found in dining rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms.
The reason why vinyl flooring is so adaptable and sturdy is because it is made up of multiple layers that protect the floor, preserve its color, add sheen to the look, and provide support. As a result, you get a great looking floor that is able to sustain the wear and tear of high-traffic areas of the house that other flooring may not be able to endure.
In this guide, we will provide a rundown of what makes this type of flooring so popular. Continue reading to learn about the cost to install vinyl flooring, as well as vinyl floor options and more.
What Is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is a thick type of flooring, similar to linoleum, that can be made out of different synthetic materials like fiberglass, plastic, or PVC vinyl. It is a popular choice because it is built to last and can withstand much of the activity of the average household, from spills to scuffs of shoes. You can even paint over vinyl floors if they become worn over time.
In addition, this type of flooring is very affordable and low in maintenance, as well as versatile enough to be designed in ways to resemble other flooring types, like tile, stone, and hardwood.
Average Cost to Install Vinyl Flooring
Because the cost to install vinyl flooring is so affordable, more and more homeowners are choosing this material every year for their flooring projects. You can expect to pay an average of $1 to $10 per square foot for a vinyl flooring installation, depending on the type of vinyl you choose.
Vinyl Sheet Flooring Costs
Typically, vinyl sheet flooring is the more affordable option at $1 to $2 per square foot.
Sheet vinyl is one of the most popular and affordable types of flooring available to homeowners, as it is 100% stain-proof and waterproof. Perfect for large spaces, it is sold in rolls that are either six- or 12-feet wide. This is a great choice for rooms with a lot of moisture because it can be installed without any seams.
Vinyl Plank Flooring Costs
The cost to install vinyl plank flooring is a bit more expensive at just $2 to $3 per square foot.
Vinyl plank flooring is slightly more costly than vinyl sheets. However, it is designed to very realistically resemble real hardwood and stone flooring, right down to the size. They can be easily installed by being glued down to the floor. Vinyl planks come in standard planks that are 2 1/4 to 3 inch wide, while vinyl tiles are 12-by-12-inch squares. Both planks and tiles come in a variety of looks, including natural stone and wood, and can be configured in a variety of patterns and configurations.
LVP Flooring Costs
Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP) may cost slightly more, pricing in at as much as $4 to $10 per square foot. Note that even this higher pricing is considered affordable for flooring.
Homeowners love LVP flooring today because it is designed to mimic the appearance of natural materials. LVP is known for being a cost-effective, durable, and low-maintenance alternative to real hardwood floors. It offers many advantages, including its appearance, durability, water resistance, easy maintenance, and more.
Labor and Installation
Keep in mind as you budget for your project that installation and labor for vinyl often costs an extra $1 to $2 per square foot. The underfloor padding, or backing, needed for vinyl can cost about $1 to $2 per square foot, depending on whether you choose felt or fiberglass padding.
It is also helpful to keep longevity and return on investment in mind. These floors can last 10 to 20 years or more in your home, as long as you maintain them properly. Considering this material’s cost per square foot and healthy lifespan, choosing it can yield a great return on investment.
Is Vinyl a Popular Choice for New Flooring?
In a 2023 Modernize survey of thousand of homeowners, nearly 8% of homeowners indicated they already have vinyl floors. Of those who will be installing new flooring in the next 12 months, another 9% of respondents said vinyl is their number one pick.
Benefits of Vinyl Flooring
Homeowners enjoy several benefits when they choose vinyl floors. The following are some of the reasons why you should consider them for your home:
- Very affordable. Vinyl is one of the most affordable types of flooring across the board, starting at just $1 per square foot.
- Design versatility. If you want hardwood or natural stone flooring but do not want to pay the hefty price for the real deal, vinyl closely mimics these high-end flooring types in appearance.
- Waterproof and stain-proof. This type of flooring is one of the only types that can claim it is 100% waterproof. For this reason, it is a great fit for bathrooms and kitchens.
- Comfort. Vinyl is comfortable underfoot, as it uses a softer underflooring material.
- Soundproof. This flooring is known to reduce noise and remain durable. This makes it a great choice for larger families or those with pets.
How to Maintain Vinyl Floors
It is quite easy to maintain and clean vinyl floors thanks to its makeup. In order to ensure that you get the most out of vinyl floors, you should be sure to sweep and mop them regularly and clean spills right away. Also, to avoid scratches, it’s best to place pads underneath furniture.
Vinyl flooring is a versatile and affordable way to upgrade the look of your home. As with many home renovations, finding the right contractor will be a big help in choosing the right type of flooring. Let Modernize help you find the right flooring contractor who can help you take the first step of your journey.
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