Vinyl floor tiles are manufactured in a large range of colors and designs that can match any setting. Most are waterproof, easy to maintain and highly durable which makes vinyl tiles an ideal choice for high–traffic areas. A floor of vinyl tiles if properly maintained lasts ages without looking old and tired.

Vinyl is made in sheets of varying thicknesses before being cut into tiles. The most common thickness is 1/8” sheets which are cut into square tiles of 12", 16", 18", as well as rectangles of 36" x 4" and 36" x 6". Vinyl floor tiles are manufactured not merely in block colors but also patterned like wood, stone, decoratives and geometrics. The range of options with vinyl tile flooring is virtually limitless.

Most vinyl floor tiles are available in two types – with a plain backing and with a self–adhesive backing. Self–adhesive tiles are easier to install by merely removing the release paper backing and exposing the adhesive bottom surface of the tile. The tile is then put in place on a suitably prepared floor or subfloor and pressed down firmly. The tiles usually have an arrow at the back which should all point in the same direction.

In the case of installing a non-adhesive vinyl floor tiles, a layer of adhesive should be first applied and allowed to set in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The same procedure then follows with each tile.

Maintenance of vinyl tile floors is relatively easy. Here are some easy care tips for vinyl tile flooring:

• Regularly sweep or vacuum the floors.
• Wash with a cleaner that is free of soap–based detergents and abrasives.
• Use floor protectors beneath the legs of heavy furniture to distribute the weight.
• Use natural fiber mats outside doorways. Avoid rubber mats that might discolor the flooring.