When we think of the term “resilient,” we tend to think of someone or something that can withstand unfortunate circumstances and bounce back. According to Merriam-Webster, resilient means being “capable of withstanding shock without permanent deformation or rupture” or “tending to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change.” But what does this mean concerning flooring? Believe it or not, resilient flooring isn’t just an adjective used to describe durable flooring–it’s a flooring type.
What is Resilient Flooring?
Resilient flooring refers to a category of strong, flexible flooring that can withstand anything you throw at it. This flooring is similar to hardwood, stone, cement, or ceramic tile without actually being any of these types.
Difference Between Resilient and Non-Resilient Flooring
Resilient flooring has many different properties that make it a desirable flooring choice. These include:
- Non-slip and better traction
- Inexpensive replacement costs
- Ergonomic
- Less noise
- Wide variety of options
Non-resilient flooring is the opposite; it has no give, can receive permanent markings and dents, and is more likely to chip. However, there are some benefits to it over resilient flooring:
- Durability
- More expensive but lasts longer
- Less expensive to maintain
Resilient Flooring Types
The main resilient flooring types you’ve probably heard of but didn’t know fell into this category include luxury vinyl tile, sheet vinyl, vinyl composition tile, rubber, and linoleum.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
One of the main beauties of choosing luxury vinyl tile is that you can enjoy the appearance of wood or stone flooring without actually having to maintain wood or stone. Luxury vinyl tile is water resistant, pet friendly, and very durable. One of the main beauties of this resilient flooring type is that if a portion of the floor undergoes damage, you can replace that individual portion of the floor without having to replace the entire floor.
Sheet Vinyl
Like LVT, sheet vinyl comes in many different forms and can mimic other flooring types. Sheet vinyl is a wonderful option for those looking for a lasting floor, low maintenance costs, and sound-damping benefits. Unlike LVT, however, sheet vinyl will require more work to replace. Because sheet vinyl is a continuous material, an entire section of the floor will have to be cut away when damage occurs instead of a single tile.
Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT)
Though vinyl composition tile is most commonly used in industrial or commercial spaces, it is still worth mentioning as one of the most common resilient flooring types. Inexpensive, VCT comes in many different colors and designs and is highly durable. VCT is relatively easy to maintain and will require reapplication of floor finishes to restore its appearance.
Rubber
While perhaps an unorthodox material for flooring in a home, this resilient flooring type is especially useful for lots of wear and tear. You might consider this flooring for a recreational room, at-home gym, or your basement. Rubber has excellent slip resistance, water resistance, and softness, making it very friendly for families with young children. Be wary of too much moisture, as too much moisture can impact the adhesive that holds the floor in place.
Linoleum
Homeowners with linoleum flooring know that this flooring lasts decades and can withstand scratches, all without losing its color. Linoleum is made from solidified linseed oil, pine resin, cork dust, sawdust, and mineral fillers. Maintaining linoleum is similar to maintaining vinyl flooring.
BetterBuilt Builders
The material you use for your flooring will help set a style for your interior design while also reflecting your personal characteristics. The type you choose also determines the durability, use, and required maintenance. In short, your flooring shouldn’t be a second thought or take a back seat in your home remodeling project. When you decide, our flooring installation services will be ready. Give BetterBuilt Builders a call or get a free estimate today.