VCT Flooring

Vinyl Composition Tile.  I know what you’re thinking.  “No, I defiantly don’t want that”, followed closely by your second thought:  “I think I know what that is”.

The words vinyl, composition and tile generally don’t conjure visions elegant and stylish floors.

But they should.

What exactly is VCT?  Technically, VCT is a mix of fillers and pigments with a thermoplastic binder.  But let’s not get technical.  Think of VCT as the moderately priced floor that is durable, low maintenance, easy to install and stylish.

VCT is very stylish.

You’re familiar with “classic” VCT.  It can be found in most large commercial buildings, like hospital and schools.  Something exciting happens, though, when those very basic tiles are given an artistic slant:  You end up with a fun and funky, high impact and high fashion floor.  Throw in some color, arrange in a pattern and you not only have a functional, hardworking floor, you have a work of art.

Like most great works of art, however, classic VCT does require more specialized care.  Waxing and buffing are not archaic words in the world of classic VCT.

For those with more traditions tastes, VCT has styles for you, too.  If you love the look of wood, stone or ceramic, but don’t want the upkeep, try a luxury vinyl tile.  Even to a well trained eye, once it’s installed, it’s hard to tell the difference between luxury vinyl and any other flooring material.  Today’s luxury vinyl tile offers all of the current flooring trends, but with all of the perks that come inherent in a VCT floor.  Luxury vinyl composition tile is perfect for any style, any home, any life style and most budgets.

Most luxury vinyl tiles offer an aluminum oxide finish, which is the hardest wear layer currently available in flooring today.  And unlike vinyl floors of old, luxury vinyl tile does not require waxing or buffing to keep it looking beautiful.

Installation methods generally depend on the brand and the collection within the brand.  Full-spread glue down, peel and stick and floating are the most common methods.  All three installation techniques are user friendly, perfect for the ambitious do-it-yourselfer.

The most important part of your flooring project will be the preparation.  VCT can be installed over wood, concrete or old vinyl, but it requires a clean, level substrate.  Use a leveling compound for dips in the subfloor; conversely sand down any high areas.  If you’re going over old vinyl, use an embossing leveler. The substrate may also require an underlayment.

Depending on the product and installation method, you may be able to walk on your new floor immediately, or you may have to wait several hours to a day if adhesive is used.  Care needs to be taken when putting furniture and appliances back on your new floor.  Never drag heavy items; instead, use a thin layer of plywood or furniture sliders.  If the installation required glue, avoid mopping your new floor for five days—this allows time for the adhesive to set. Use protective pads on the legs of your furniture to avoid scratching.

For regular care of either type of VCT, sweep often and damp mop as needed with a mild cleanser.  See manufacturers’ specifications for more details.

Now you know what VCT really is, and more importantly, what it can do your you and your home.  I know what you’re thinking—“I’ve got to have that floor.”