PROS
- Water Resistant
Vinyl planks, unlike wood planks, are 100% water and moisture resistant. This is one of the biggest advantages of vinyl flooring, making it ideal for any environment where the floor may be exposed to water. - Durability
With wood, you cannot lay it in a place that will get wet. With tile, you do not want to lay it where it can get damaged.
Luxury vinyl plank on the other hand, is very versatile and durable. This means it can work great in the kitchen or bathroom. Spills will not damage it and they are very easy to clean. If you have pets and kids causing a ruckus in the house, vinyl does not scratch easily, chip or suffer any kind of major damage that is going to make it look bad. - Maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance of vinyl plank flooring is easy. Sweeping or vacuuming is all that’s needed for daily maintenance. For deeper cleaning, a mop and warm water will work in most cases. Be sure to avoid mops with built-in scrub brushes, however, as this can damage your floor. With a few simple cleaning techniques, you can keep your vinyl plank floor clean and healthy with minimal effort or investment. - Appearance
It’s pretty crazy how much choice there is out there in the world of vinyl flooring. Thanks to advanced photographic imaging technology for the design layer, vinyl plank flooring can look exactly like any particular look you’re interested in. - Comfort
Vinyl planks are softer on the surface than regular wood planks, making them more comfortable to walk on. This is an especially important benefit for those who need to stand for long periods of time, as vinyl planks are easier and more comfortable to stand on than traditional wood alternatives.
Also, one of the things that vinyl floors don’t get the credit it deserves for is how it’s able to stay at room temperature. So, if you have your central heating on in the winter, you do not have to worry about your floor sending chills through your body when you get out of bed! - Affordability
For those looking for a competitively-priced floor that doesn’t compromise on quality, vinyl plank flooring is a great choice. The cost of vinyl plank flooring is typically less than solid hardwood floors. This means you can have the benefits of vinyl that are missing in cheaper flooring options without the high cost of solid wood flooring.
CONS
- Discoloration
When it comes to cons of vinyl flooring, a disadvantage is that it can become discolored due to constant exposure to direct sunlight. So, it’s not a great option for outdoor use. Certain rubber material, such as a rubber backing from a floor mat, can also cause vinyl to discolor. - Biodegradability
Unfortunately, vinyl planks are not biodegradable. They can also be difficult to recycle depending on the brand and composition. So, if environmental consciousness is a critical factor in your decision-making process, this is a drawback to consider. - Not Impossible to Damage
While vinyl will hold up for many years, you can damage it. Dropping a glass or moving heavy furniture can result in scuffs and gouges that are difficult to remove. If you do arrange furniture, be sure to cover the feet with felt, or lift the piece off the ground before moving it.