Gone are the days when carpet flooring was the only reliable option for stairs. One of the most commonly used floorings for stairs these days is none other than vinyl flooring. It is the kind of flooring that can be installed very easily on the stairs but also has its pros and cons. While vinyl flooring may not be as plush as a carpet, it sure looks pretty. In this blog, we will deeply discuss the pros and cons of vinyl flooring on stairs.
What Is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl is a type of synthetic flooring that is made up of various layers. Each layer serves a different purpose and adds to the strength of the vinyl. All the layers are stuck to each other so that you can get a very durable and thick flooring. Because of its high-quality construction, this type of flooring can be installed anywhere. This includes bathrooms, kitchens, and even stairs. Vinyl flooring offers an excellent lifespan and can last anywhere between 25 to 30 years.
Pros & Cons of Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring usually comes in rectangular-shaped planks. This kind of flooring can be installed in all low and high-traffic areas. This means that you can easily install them on your staircases. Let us have a look at the pros and the cons of installing vinyl flooring on stairs.
Pros Of Vinyl Flooring On Stairs
Here are some of the benefits of installing vinyl flooring on the stairs:
Budget-friendly
Vinyl flooring is cost-effective, and this is the core reason why it is widely used. The manufacturing process of vinyl flooring is not very expensive. So if you are thinking about installing vinyl flooring on your stairs, then you should go for it since it won’t break your bank.
Easy To Install
Vinyl flooring can be easily installed and you don’t even need any kind of professional help. If you can do some technical work, the installation can be done at home. Make sure that you are familiar with installing these planks onto the stairs. Installation of flooring planks on stair treads is different from installing them on a flat floor.
Easy To Clean & Maintain
If you are someone who doesn’t have a lot of time and is busy, then vinyl flooring is the one for you. You can easily clean and maintain vinyl flooring. Regular cleaning is best to keep the floor in good shape. For the removal of stains and spots, you can clean it by using a mild cleaning solution. This not only keeps your floor clean, but it also increases the lifespan of your stairs and floors.
Water Resistant
Vinyl flooring is moisture- and water-resistant. You can install it anywhere in your homes, bathrooms, and kitchens. But, make sure that when you are installing it, each plank is properly locked & no joint has a gap. If you leave a gap between planks, it will cause moisture damage to the subfloor and also increase the vinyl floor’s wear & tear.
Utmost Comfort
Vinyl planks offer a softer feel because of the many layers. Unlike hardwood floors, vinyl gives a cushioning effect to the floor. This means that you can walk barefoot on the floors and staircases. It is best for children and pets, and they can easily play on it.
Highly Durable
Vinyl flooring is very durable because of its multi-layered composition. Its resilient nature also makes it long-lasting. Its multiple layers prevent its premature wear and damage. Each layer is more durable than the previous one, increasing its lifespan.
Noise Reduction
The multiple layers of the vinyl flooring have another benefit as it is sound absorption. If you want a pleasant and peaceful home, then vinyl flooring is the one for you. It absorbs the impact of the footsteps and reduces noise when you are running up the stairs.
Variety Of Designs
Vinyl flooring comes in a variety of colors and designs. If you are thinking of elevating your interior decor, then we would suggest you go for vinyl flooring. You can choose different styles and designs as per your interior demands.
Cons Of Vinyl Flooring
These are some of the cons of the vinyl flooring:
Hard To Remove
It is not easy to remove vinyl flooring from stairs. For example, if you want to remove the flooring from your stairs the adhesives can be hard to take off. As easy as it is to install this flooring, you would need professional help and time to remove it.
Non Eco-friendly
Vinyl flooring lies somewhere in the middle of the sustainability spectrum. While its longer lifespan makes it eco-friendly, the use of PVC in vinyl has a significant impact on the environment. Although many manufacturers are opting for sustainable practices for producing vinyl, it is wise to double check before buying. Moreover, modern vinyl floorings are also being recycled by many manufacturers, so the jury is still out on vinyl’s eco-friendliness.
Hazardous To Health
The manufacturing of vinyl flooring requires polyvinyl chloride. The production of PVC involves a significant amount of fossil fuels. Traditional vinyl needs hazardous chemicals to achieve its unique functionality and features. It can be very harmful for both humans and pets. This can also increase the risk of various diseases like asthma and other respiratory-related diseases. In many severe cases, it can lead to lung cancer and kidney failure.
Conclusion
Vinyl flooring is the perfect choice for so many people for their staircases. If you install it on your staircases, then it will ensure safety, comfort, durability, and style. While we are at it, it is very important that you consider both pros and cons of vinyl before investing in it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is vinyl flooring the best option for your staircases?
Yes, vinyl flooring is an ideal option for your staircases. It is because it is a blend of durability and comfort, and it also requires low maintenance. It also gives a very soft feel while you are walking on it.
How long does the vinyl flooring last?
This normally depends, but vinyl flooring can last up to anywhere around 20 to 30 years.
How can we clean and maintain vinyl flooring?
In order to maintain vinyl flooring, you need to regularly clean it. Regular mopping will be good for removal of dirt and debris. Similarly, you can also use a mild detergent to clean stubborn stains and spots from the flooring.
What are some disadvantages of vinyl flooring?
Some disadvantages of vinyl flooring include its uncertain sustainability and how it is really hard to remove.
