Kitchen flooring is one of the most important design decisions when remodeling or building a new home. The right kitchen flooring material can upgrade the look and feel of the entire space. Resilient vinyl has become an increasingly popular choice for today’s kitchens. Keep reading to learn all about resilient vinyl kitchen flooring and how to choose the best option for your home.
What is Resilient Vinyl Flooring?
Resilient vinyl flooring, sometimes called vinyl plank flooring or luxury vinyl plank (LVP), refers to a category of synthetic flooring that is extremely durable, scratch resistant, and waterproof. This type of flooring is constructed in layers that are fused together under heat and pressure. The layers typically include:
- Clear Protective Urethane Coating: A durable, clear layer that protects against scratches, stains, and UV fading. Newer vinyl floors feature a ceramic-infused urethane coating for even better protection.
- Vinyl Layer: This layer gives the flooring its resilient properties. The vinyl is flexible but still strong and stable.
- Printed Design Layer: Resilient vinyl floors feature a layer underneath the top clear layer that realistically imitates materials like wood, tile, and stone. This layer can incorporate textures that mimic natural materials as well.
- Rigid Core: Underneath the printed design layer is a rigid core typically made from waterproof plastic or limestone composite. This provides strength, structure, and dimensional stability.
- Backing Layer: The bottom layer is typically a foam underlayment layer that adds cushioning and helps smooth out subfloor imperfections. An attached cork underlayment is sometimes used instead for additional comfort and sound absorption.
Resilient vinyl construction allows this flooring to resist scratches, stains, dents, and moisture damage while still offering comfort underfoot. The layered structure also contributes to easy installation. Many vinyl plank floors can be installed as floating floors without glue or nails.
Benefits of Resilient Vinyl Flooring
There are many reasons why resilient vinyl flooring has surged in popularity for today’s kitchens:
Waterproof
Resilient vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof, making it an ideal choice for kitchens and other rooms prone to spills and moisture. The layers of vinyl and PVC plastic will not absorb water or swell if exposed to leaks or flooding. This waterproof structure keeps your subfloor protected as well.
Durable and Scratch Resistant
Modern vinyl floors feature a highly scratch-resistant ceramic-infused urethane top coat that maintains the look of new flooring for years to come. The layers of vinyl and PVC plastic are resistant to dents and gouges as well. Many vinyl floors carry warranties of up to 25 years for residential use.
Comfortable Underfoot
Although vinyl floors are rigid and durable, they still offer some “give” for comfort when walking and standing. This is thanks to the foam padding or cork underlayment backing layer. Newer rigid core vinyl is stiffer and more stable underfoot than the vinyl flooring of the past.
Affordable
Resilient vinyl flooring is one of the most budget-friendly kitchen flooring options. It offers a very low cost per square foot, with pricing comparable to laminate flooring. There are vinyl options available in a huge range of price points to suit any kitchen remodeling budget.
Easy Maintenance
Keeping vinyl floors clean is quick and easy, without any special products needed. Simply sweep and mop with a damp mop as needed. The protective top layer resists stains, and won’t harbor bacteria or allergens. You can occasionally refresh the floors with a vinyl floor cleaner to keep the finish shiny.
Realistic Looks
With technology that precisely mimics natural materials like wood, tile, and stone, vinyl floors offer stunning visuals perfect for modern kitchen designs. The textured surfaces capture subtle details, like the grain patterns and knots found in genuine hardwood. Combine that with color variation for a truly realistic look.
Variety of Styles
There is a huge range of colors, patterns, textures and visual styles to choose from. Resilient vinyl comes in wood looks like oak, hickory, birch, and exotic woods. Stone and tile visuals are available too, along with solid color options. Choose a style that aligns with your kitchen’s decor.
Moisture Resistance
The layered construction and waterproof materials used in vinyl plank flooring offer unmatched resistance to moisture. Spills and leaks won’t damage vinyl floors, making them perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, basements and laundry rooms. This also makes vinyl ideal for homes in damp climates.
Insulation Qualities
Cork backing layers help add sound dampening qualities to absorb noise when walking. Foam backing provides additional comfort underfoot. These extra layers also allow vinyl floors to better hold in heat.
Considerations When Choosing Resilient Vinyl Floors
With numerous styles and construction types available, keep these factors in mind when selecting vinyl flooring:
Quality Construction
Focus on resilient vinyl floors with durable limestone or plastic composite cores rather than cheaper foams which can indent. Multi-layer flooring with cork or foam backing layers offer better performance. Look for thick, premium ceramic-infused urethane top coats that resist scratches and scuffs.
Traffic Ratings
For kitchens and other high-traffic areas of the home, only choose vinyl flooring rated for commercial or heavy residential use. This ensures the durability, finish quality and lifespan you need.
Style Preferences
Browse the wide range of available wood species, tile shapes, stone types and solid color options to find a resilient vinyl floor that aligns with your desired kitchen design aesthetic. Large format plank sizes can help rooms appear more spacious.
Realistic Variations
The most realistic vinyl floors mimic the look of natural materials right down to the textures and color variations. Subtle details like knots, grains and veining improve the natural appearance. Distressed or hand-scraped finishes add authenticity to wood-look vinyl.
Waterproof Pad
Opt for vinyl plank flooring with an attached or pre-applied waterproof foam pad to simplify installation while protecting moisture-prone areas. Self-adhesive vinyl options are also available to skip glue or nails completely.
Warranties
Look for long warranties of 15-25 years for the finish and construction. This protects against wear over time. Residential warranties are longer than commercial warranties on the same flooring.
Resistance to Fading
Quality vinyl flooring resists damage from UV light, so it won’t fade or discolor near windows and natural light sources. New floors with ceramic-infused urethane offer even better protection.
Sustainability Factors
Eco-friendly kitchen designs may opt for vinyl containing recycled materials, non-toxic components or eligible for green certification. Cork backing layers offer natural soundproofing.
Costs
Vinyl plank flooring is very budget-friendly, but you still get what you pay for in terms of durability and realism. Avoid extremely low-priced options that are more likely to scratch, dent or bubble.
Pros and Cons of Resilient Vinyl Floors
It’s helpful to weigh the benefits and possible drawbacks of vinyl flooring:
Pros:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant surface
- Completely waterproof construction
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Huge variety of colors, patterns and plank sizes
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resists fading from sunlight
- Attached underlayment for simple installation
- Realistic wood, tile and stone designs
- Ideal for kitchens, baths, basements and condos
Potential Cons:
- Can show indentations over time in heavy traffic areas
- Occasional planks or tiles may chip on the edges
- Not as warm underfoot as wood flooring
- Can generate noise and echo without additional sound dampening
- Poor quality options may bubble or peel over time
Overall, the pros greatly outweigh the few potential downsides, which are primarily avoided through proper product selection. Installing vinyl flooring directly over concrete can increase noise, so an additional sound-absorbing underlayment is recommended.
Comparison to Other Kitchen Flooring Types
How does resilient vinyl stack up against popular competitors? Here’s a look:
vs. Laminate Flooring
Laminate is affordable, with a similar look and feel. However, laminate flooring swells and warps if exposed to spills or moisture. Vinyl is 100% waterproof, making it the better choice for kitchens and baths. Vinyl also has better scratch and scuff resistance.
vs. Engineered Hardwood
Engineered wood offers natural beauty, but it is still prone to water damage in moisture-prone rooms. Vinyl provides the same upscale visuals with superior durability and moisture resistance. Vinyl is more budget-friendly as well.
vs. Ceramic Tile
Tile is very water-resistant but the grout lines can harbor bacteria and dirt. The hard surface leads to a noisy, echoing environment. Easier care and installation make vinyl the winner.
vs. Natural Stone
Natural stone like marble or slate has unrivaled elegance but requires intensive sealing and maintenance. Etching and stains are common. Resilient vinyl provides incredible realism without the hassle.
vs. Cork Flooring
Cork is warm, quiet and comfortable underfoot. However, moisture can still damage natural cork over time. Spills seep into the porous material as well. Waterproof vinyl is better suited for kitchens.
How to Install Resilient Vinyl Flooring
One of the benefits of resilient vinyl plank flooring is straightforward do-it-yourself installation. Follow these tips for a successful installation:
Choose an Appropriate Room
Kitchens, bathrooms, basements, mudrooms and laundry rooms are ideal for vinyl’s waterproof properties. Vinyl works well in dining spaces, living rooms, dens and bedrooms too. Commercial uses like stores and restaurants also see heavy vinyl plank use.
Evaluate the Subfloor
Subfloors must be flat, clean and dry without cracks or holes. Concrete should be flat and level. Wood subfloors must be structurally sound. Installers may need to grind down high spots, fill low spots and gaps, and use leveling compounds to prep the subfloor.
Remove Baseboards
Take out existing baseboards and trim to simplify installation. These can be replaced once the new vinyl flooring is installed. Numbering the trim pieces makes re-installation faster.
Determine Layout
Follow the vinyl flooring manufacturer’s recommendations for layout. Most floors should be installed from left to right, with tongues and grooves facing toward walls. Stagger the end joints between rows by at least 6 inches for stability.
Install Moisture Barrier
A plastic moisture barrier helps protect the subfloor from spills that might seep between plank seams. Roll out 6 mil plastic sheeting and overlap seams by 8-12 inches. Some vinyl floors have pre-attached moisture barriers.
Begin Laying Planks
After spreading adhesive if needed, lay the first row of planks against a straight wall, tongue sides facing out from the wall. Use spacers around the perimeter to allow room for expansion and prevent buckling.
Secure Planks Together
Connect each additional plank tongue-to-groove, engaging the click-locking mechanism. Use a rubber mallet and tapping block to securely lock together while preventing damage. Ensure seams are tight.
Cut Final Row to Fit
The final row will need planks cut to fit the remaining space. Use a vinyl cutter or a utility knife and square to cut planks. Remove spacers after final planks are laid.
Replace Trim and Transitions
Re-install baseboards, quarter rounds, and transitions between rooms after the flooring installation is complete. Seal any gaps with caulk for a seamless look.
With proper subfloor prep and layout, vinyl plank flooring can be installed by homeowners in just a weekend. No glue or nails are needed for most vinyl flooring.
Maintaining and Cleaning Resilient Vinyl Floors
The easy care and minimal maintenance needs of vinyl flooring are advantages over natural materials. Keep vinyl looking like new with these tips:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt, sand and debris that can scratch floors.
- Mop floors weekly using only water or a pH-neutral vinyl floor cleaner. Avoid harsh soaps and acidic cleaners that can dull the finish.
- Blot spills immediately to prevent staining. Avoid letting moisture stand on the floors.
- Add vinyl-safe floor mats at entrances to absorb dirt, sand, grit and moisture from shoes. Use rug pads underneath.
- Move area rugs occasionally so they do not block sunlight and cause uneven fading.
- Use felt pads underneath furniture legs to prevent scratches and gouges.
- Consider no-shoes policies in the home to reduce tracked in debris. Socks or slippers help avoid scratches.
- Avoid abrasive scouring pads, steel wool or harsh scrubbing that can damage the protective finish.
- Rearrange furniture and space rugs periodically since vinyl can fade unevenly over time in bright sunlight. Rotate area rugs to allow uniform exposure.
- Run humidifiers and dehumidifiers to maintain indoor humidity between 30% and 50% and prevent planks from shrinking or expanding.
With proper care, vinyl flooring should retain its like-new appearance for many years before needing refinishing or replacement. Choose durable commercial grade vinyl rated for high traffic for the best long-term wear.
Resilient Vinyl Flooring Costs
One of the biggest appeals of resilient vinyl flooring is the very affordable pricing:
- Basic Vinyl: $2 – $5 per square foot installed
- Stone-Look Vinyl: $3 – $6 per square foot installed
- Wood-Look Vinyl: $3 – $8 per square foot installed
- Commercial Grade Vinyl: $4 – $10 per square foot installed
- Luxury Vinyl Tile: $8+ per square foot installed
Vinyl plank flooring offers one of the lowest price ranges out of any flooring material. Even at the high end, vinyl is significantly less expensive than most wood, tile, stone and laminate floors.
The product quality and construction determine prices within the vinyl flooring category. Commercial grade vinyl with durable limestone cores and attached cork underlayment costs more than basic vinyl with foam cores. Unique styles like large wood strips or imitation stone tiles push vinyl pricing slightly higher as well.
Even luxury vinyl tile costs far below natural stone tile or hardwood. When estimating costs, be sure to account for subfloor prep work too. This can add $1-3 per square foot if significant repairs are needed but allows proper installation.
Resilient Vinyl vs. Sheet Vinyl
It helps to understand the differences between vinyl plank flooring and traditional sheet vinyl when making flooring decisions:
Vinyl Plank Flooring
- Made of individual planks or tiles
- Floating click-together installation
- More durable, scratch-resistant wear layer
- Rigid composite or limestone inner core
- Realistic wood and tile looks
- Completely waterproof
Sheet Vinyl
- Sold in rolls, seamless appearance
- Glued down installation
- More flexible and prone to scratches/tears
- Foam backing available, not attached
- Limited colors and patterns
- Seams can allow moisture underneath
While sheet vinyl is water-resistant, it risks water getting underneath at the seams. It also shows scratches and tears over time and lacks realistic visuals. Easy to install vinyl plank flooring provides better performance and aesthetics for today’s luxury kitchens.
Choosing a Style for Your Kitchen
The variety of finishes and designs available in resilient vinyl flooring provides options for nearly any kitchen decor. Consider these popular styles:
Wood Look Plank Flooring
Wood vinyl mimics almost any species of hardwood you desire, from oak and hickory to exotic woods. Wide planks create a dramatic impression. Distressed finishes add rustic charm while smooth planks offer contemporary appeal.
Painted or Whitewashed Wood
Whimsical painted, whitewashed or bleached wood effects breathe color and cottage style into kitchens. Softer grays, blues and greens give vintage flair.
Tile Look Vinyl
Amaze with the grandeur of marble, travertine, slate or concrete without the maintenance needs. Large format tile vinyl looks luxurious.
Concrete Style
Concrete visuals lend an urban loft vibe with more comfort underfoot. The neutral color palettes keep the space feeling airy and light.
Stone Visuals
Marble, travertine and slate designs infuse high-end luxuriousness without hefty stone costs and fragile surfaces. Massive slabs wow.
Chevron and Herringbone Patterns
Angled shapes like chevron stripes or herringbone patterns add eye-catching geometric flair popular in contemporary kitchens.
Solid Color Vinyl
Make a bold, modern statement with sleek solid color vinyl in sophisticated hues like navy, charcoal, dove gray or soft ivory. Seamless appearances result.
Resilient Vinyl Flooring Design Inspiration
Here are some gorgeous kitchen designs showing styles of resilient vinyl flooring:
Urban Loft Kitchen
Concrete-look vinyl plank flooring lends an urban loft vibe. The neutral gray palette keeps the space feeling light and airy despite the dark floors. Crisp white cabinets pop against the gray.
Rustic Farmhouse Kitchen
Wide-plank oak vinyl flooring adds rustic farmhouse charm. A classic white apron-front sink and subway tile backsplash balance the reclaimed wood aesthetic. Distressing creates an authentic look.
Modern Kitchen
Sleek and seamless navy blue vinyl flooring makes a sophisticated modern statement. The deep blue hue grounds the crisp white cabinetry. Large windows and metallics add pops of shine.
Spanish Style Kitchen
Terracotta vinyl tiles lined with skinny charcoal gro