What is PVC Flooring - Things to Know Before Installing PVC Floor Sheet

PVC flooring, also known as Polyvinyl Chloride or simply poly vinyl flooring, has gained immense popularity for its versatility and durability in both residential and commercial spaces. This synthetic flooring material comes in various forms, making it suitable for diverse applications. In this blog, we will explore what PVC flooring is and provide crucial insights to consider before installing PVC floor sheets.

 

What is PVC Flooring?

PVC is a synthetic plastic polymer made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin, which is mixed with other additives to enhance its overall properties. This makes PVC highly resistant to wear, moisture, and stains. For flooring, PVC is available in various forms, such as sheets, tiles, rolls, etc., catering to diverse flooring needs. It's simple and easy installation and low maintenance requirements further enhance its appeal. 

The polyvinyl flooring solution from REHAU, RAUFLOOR Neostein, is the epitome of REHAU’s innovation. These rigid core vinyl tiles are composed of PVC over a rigid core made up of four special layers: a UV layer, a wear layer, a colour film or printed layer, and a rigid core vinyl layer. The top UV layer protects the surface from most scratches, dirt, and chemical contaminants, which helps in easy cleaning. The wear layer gives it durability and resistance to abrasion, while the printed layer provides the desired pattern to the surface. The ultra-dense, rigid core makes it waterproof and durable.
 

Types of PVC Flooring Options

PVC vinyl flooring options are available in different types. Each type serves a specific purpose and is suited to different environments.

1. PVC Floor Carpet: PVC carpet flooring gives the appearance and texture of traditional fabric carpets. They are commonly used in areas where a softer, more cushioned flooring surface is desired, such as bedrooms.
2. PVC Floor Roll: PVC rolls for flooring come in large rolls, providing a continuous and seamless flooring solution for larger areas. They are typically cut to size into PVC flooring sheets during installation and are used in large areas like living rooms or commercial spaces like offices and retail stores as a continuous layer without visible seams.
    
3. PVC Floor Tile: PVC flooring tiles are smaller, interlocking pieces that can be easily arranged to cover a floor. They come in various sizes. PVC floor tiles offer flexibility in design and can be replaced individually if damaged.
4. PVC Floor Mat: PVC floor mats are generally smaller, portable pieces designed to be placed over existing flooring. They are often used for specific purposes. PVC floor mats for rooms can be used at entryways, while PVC floor mats for offices can be used at workstations. They are generally used to protect underlying flooring and can be easily cleaned or replaced.

Benefits of PVC Flooring

• Durable and Wear-Resistant: PVC's supreme durability ensures that PVC flooring can withstand heavy foot traffic and daily wear, making it ideal even for crowded commercial spaces.
• Moisture and Water Resistance: PVC flooring is highly resistant to moisture and water, making it suitable for areas prone to dampness or spills, like kitchens and bathrooms.
   
• Chemical resistance: PVC is highly resistant to many chemicals. Thus, PVC flooring is a great flooring option even in the healthcare sector, laboratories, and research centres.
   
• Low maintenance: PVC is scratch- and stain-resistant and very easy to clean. As a result, PVC flooring requires minimal maintenance.
   
• Easy Installation: Its flexible nature and simple installation methods make PVC flooring a convenient and hassle-free choice for both workers and customers.
   
• Cost effectiveness: PVC is generally more economical compared to many other materials with similar properties. Thus, PVC flooring is a cost-effective choice for a wide range of applications.
   
• Variety of Designs: PVC flooring comes in a wide range of designs, including wood, stone, and abstract patterns, allowing for creative customization. PVC wooden flooring helps in replicating the appearance of wood planks, while PVC stone flooring helps in recreating the looks of marble or granite, providing an economical alternative to hardwood and natural stone floors.

Factors to consider before installing PVC flooring

1. Subfloor Preparation: Ensure the subfloor is clean, level, and free of any waste or litter.
    
2. Space Suitability: Consider factors like moisture levels and foot traffic to choose the right type of PVC flooring for the required space.
3. Installation Method: Depending on the type of PVC flooring (sheets, tiles, rolls, etc.), select the appropriate installation method. They can be installed using adhesives or without them using the click-and-lock system.

Conclusion

PVC flooring, with its versatility, durability, and easy maintenance, has become a preferred choice for various settings. By understanding the different types and considering essential installation factors, you can make an informed decision to enhance the aesthetic and functionality of your space. RAUFLOOR Neostein PVC Flooring Solution from REHAU allows you to rely on a global brand that has innovated the way forward to provide furniture, building, kitchen, industrial, automotive, and interior solution for 75+ years. In India, REHAU has been bringing German-quality solutions for the last 25+ years, enhancing your everyday life.