There is certainly no shortage of wood flooring options these days. Wood flooring remains at the top of the list as the most desired flooring product, but it is not always a viable option for many homeowners.
Thanks to advancements in flooring technology, the quality of vinyl flooring has increased and the available spectrum of wood-look vinyl is limitless. Hardwood is certainly beautiful and provides a traditional style, but it does not provide the same durability and affordability as a wood-look vinyl floor.
The Growth of Wood-Look Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring of yesteryear conjures memories of brick patterns and yellowish-brown sheet vinyl; however, the current selection of vinyl products includes realistic wood grains that mimic the textures and aesthetics found in solid hardwood flooring.
Over the last few years, vinyl flooring’s popularity, specifically wood-look vinyl flooring, has grown exponentially as a flooring option for remodels, updates, and new construction. Now it’s possible to achieve a classic wood look at a fraction of the cost, and with an impressive durability story.
8 Reasons to Choose Wood-Look Vinyl Flooring
1. Scratch Resistance
Worried about scratches? Wood-look vinyl plank flooring is resistant to scratches, making it an ideal choice for high traffic areas. It never has to be refinished like hardwood to keep it in tip-top shape — saving costs down the line.
2. Water Damage
Wood-look vinyl flooring is water-resistant, and many products are now waterproof, so there is no need to worry about water damage. Vinyl wood flooring can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, or anywhere that water could be an issue. It can even be installed below-grade in your basement. Solid hardwood, on the other hand, cannot withstand excess moisture or high humidity.
3. Color, Style, and Grain Variation
Thanks to modern printing technology, vinyl wood-look planks are available in a wide range of realistic looks. Colors can range from white to ebony; different styles like cherry and oak are now available with a wide range of wood grain variation that mimics reclaimed wood or traditional wood grain or a softer contemporary look. Regardless of taste, there is something that everyone will like.
4. Easy Cleaning
The new wood-look vinyl flooring is a great option for a low-maintenance floor. It is easy to clean, requiring only sweeping or dust mopping for daily cleaning. You can use a vacuum cleaner on it as well with no risk of damage. For a deeper clean, a damp mop is all that is necessary. Hardwood, however, cannot be exposed to water longer than is necessary to wipe up a spill and requires the use of cleaning products specifically designed for solid hardwood.
5. Pet-Friendly
Solid hardwood is not an ideal flooring option for homeowners with pets where claws and heavy traffic is an issue. Wood-look vinyl flooring is certainly pet friendly. Resistant to scratches, chips, dings, and spilled water bowls, your new wood-look vinyl plank flooring is the perfect wood-look flooring option if you share your home with pets.
6. Cost
Looking for a wood-look, budget-friendly alternative? Wood-look vinyl flooring compared to hardwood is a much more cost-effective option. Not only is wood-look vinyl flooring more affordable, it also requires no additional material expenses like a vapor barrier or nails. As mentioned previously, it requires no refinishing, saving you money on maintenance in the future. Install it yourself and save even more!
7. DIY Installation
Wood-look vinyl flooring is DIY-friendly, unlike solid hardwood that requires professional installation. With a little motivation and very few tools, you can install your new wood look vinyl in a matter of hours compared to the days or possibly weeks to install solid hardwood. Wood-look vinyl plank flooring can be floated, and peel-and-stick options are also available.
8. Shock Absorbant
The construction of wood-look vinyl allows for a high level of shock absorption, providing comfort underfoot when walking and standing for long periods of time. Additionally, breakables are less likely to meet their demise when dropped on a vinyl floor. Hardwood is naturally more rigid, making vinyl flooring that looks like wood an ideal solution.
Use BuildDirect for The Widest Selection of High-Quality, Wood-Look Vinyl Flooring
Wood-look vinyl flooring ticks all the boxes when it comes to affordability, durability, and aesthetics. It is important that you choose the right flooring for your lifestyle and taste. With the wide range of realistic styles now available, there is sure to be an option that matches your home’s décor, and BuildDirect offers over 350 high-quality, wood-look vinyl flooring options.
Choose from classic wood grain patterns in light, warm browns to contemporary smoother graining in darker shades, to a clean, white aesthetic. Let one of BuildDirect’s experts help you choose the wood-look vinyl that is perfect for your home. We can offer advice on selection and keep you within your budget.
Want to do it yourself? Check out BuildDirect’s numerous articles on installation along with answers to any of your vinyl flooring product questions in order to help you make an informed decision.
Contact us today and let us help you complete your next flooring project.