What is self-adhesive vinyl floor?

Self-adhesive vinyl tile is a thin flooring material that is quick and easy to install due to its adhesive backing. It comes in a range of colors, patterns, and durability levels.

What is pros and cons of the self-adhesive vinyl floor?

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Durable
• Quick installation
• Easy removal
• Easy to replace

Cons:

• Glues can be toxic
• May off-gas
• Needs flawless underlayment
• Not recycle-friendly
• Water can seep through edges

Are Self-Adhesive Vinyl Floor Tiles Right For You?

Like other forms of plastic, vinyl is a relatively flexible material with desirable features that stand up to high traffic. All vinyl flooring is made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), a synthetic plastic, which means you may want to know more about the environmental impact of how it's manufactured.

Comfortable

Vinyl floor tiles are comfortable underfoot which is perfect if you have the heavy foot traffic of kids or pets.

Color Safe

Since vinyl tile is made of multiple layers, it will retain its vibrancy and color for years, even if a layer or two has worn away. This is especially helpful in high traffic areas, such as entryways and mudrooms. Any type of vinyl flooring, from self-adhesive to LVT, is reliable when it comes to keeping its color, but it does fade over time and will generally need replacement within a decade.

Noise Buffer

In addition to comfort, the little bit of softness of self-adhesive vinyl floor tiles reduces the noise of foot traffic by absorbing some sound. Higher quality tiles will do a better job of providing a soundless surface for walking.

Stain- and Water-Resistant

Vinyl floor tiles are often used in areas of a home where there's a fair amount of moisture, such as a kitchen or bathroom. Vinyl, in general, cleans well, resists stains, and water is easily wiped up. However, if too much moisture affects the performance of a single tile, it's easily swapped out for a new one.

Environmental Concerns

Though modern-day vinyl production standards are strict, PVC production remains controversial because it usually ends up in landfills where it takes centuries to decompose. Chlorine is also used to make vinyl, and disposal of this element may danger the environment, as well. In addition, the lower-quality products can off-gas a small amount of toxic Volatile Organic Chemical (VOC) particles, although there is a debate as to what level they are emitted by flooring products and about the levels of danger and toxicity from the off-gassing.