Recently, lovers of modern designs often use vinyl planks on the floor. They are affordable and can compete with linoleum and hardwood. Often people wonder, what are the better non-staining rug pads for vinyl floors? More about this will be discussed in this article.
What kind of finishes would be appropriate for vinyl plank flooring?
You need to understand that not only non-staining rug pads for vinyl plank flooring are appropriate. There are other options for hardwood floors. Vinyl rug pads imitate parquet and may vary in shade and patterns.
Materials
In the manufacture of hardwood floors, different materials are used, namely:
- combination of PVC and white pigment;
- calcium carbonate;
- a layer that is resistant to wear and is made of urethane;
- felt paper;
- vinyl foam;
- stabilizers and plasticizers.
This flooring option is in great demand. Therefore, some manufacturers add special layers to the plates that are resistant to ultraviolet radiation. For vinyl plank flooring to have a pronounced texture, various inhibitors can be added.
What are the benefits of vinyl planks?
It should be noted that vinyl boards are economical. Therefore, they can be an excellent replacement for hardwoods, as well as tiles. Such floors are universal. There are other benefits to note, including:
- your feet are warm and soft, and you can walk barefoot;
- excellent sound absorption properties;
- ease of cleaning, and resistance to moisture;
- resistance to damage;
- low-cost operation.
However, there may be scratches, tears, and dents on the coating. The greatest chance of damaging the coating is when rearranging furniture, or when using sharp objects. That is why there is a need to use rug pads.
You need to understand that not all carpets are appropriate for vinyl plank flooring.
Rugs for vinyl flooring
You can put different types of rug pads on top of the vinyl plank flooring. However, not all options that are on the market are appropriate. If you want to create a protective coating over the floor, you should use the options, which will be discussed later.
The wool area rug pad
The wool area rugs are made of soft fibers. Therefore, the wool area rugs are safe. Scientists have conducted studies according to which, on vinyl floors, there is a much greater chance of tripping and injury. If you put a wool area rug pad on top, then this probability is significantly reduced.
Cotton-backed rugs
You can also use cotton-backed rugs. Even if they rub against the vinyl plank flooring, they will not damage it. This is because soft synthetic rubber backing is used in the manufacture, and also it can include olefin, nylon, and polyester.
The handmade rug pad
In the manufacture of such models, cotton is used. Other materials can also be used, including jute, hemp, algae, and bamboo. Natural fiber rugs do not provoke the loss of pigment on vinyl panels.
Carpets that have a lasting color
Colorfastness rates indicate how well the coating retains its shade for a long time. It is important to choose options that have high color fastness. If the rug pad loses its original shade, then it does not bring any benefit in the future.
If the rug pad loses pigment while lying on the vinyl floor, stains may form on it. It is possible that the coating discolors completely. When buying, try to check with the seller how well the rug pad retains its pigment.
It is believed that colorfast rugs will be very safe for vinyl flooring. Dyes will not react with water or sunlight. Therefore, there is no threat to the house.
Jute rug pads
The jute rugs often have a soft texture. A fairly large percentage of people prefer to use them because they can decompose over time. Therefore, there is no harm to the environment. If you put rug pads on top of a vinyl floor, scratches can form. In doing so, they will slide.
To avoid this effect, you should use special linings that are placed under jute rugs. If you are looking for an effective lining, choose models made of foam. It is quite light and provides extra cushioning.
Advantages and disadvantages of using carpets for the vinyl plank flooring
Quite often, people have doubts about using rug pads over vinyl flooring. More about all the pros and cons that will help you make a decision will be discussed below.
Pros of a vinyl floor mat
If you place a rug pad on top of a vinyl floor, you can improve the quality of the interior. At the same time, there are other advantages.
Damage Prevention
If you often rearrange your home or drop things, the floor may be scratched. Severe damage is not excluded, which may necessitate a complete floor replacement. If you use mats, you can prevent damage.
Budget home decor
Carpets are affordable. They are a great option to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. There is a wide range of rug pads on the market, so you can choose the best option for yourself. Just keep in mind that not all of them are safe.
Depreciation
Some vinyl panel models have foam for extra cushioning. If you decide to save money and bought plates without such a layer, then you can lay rug pads to increase additional depreciation. Walking on the vinyl plank flooring is much more comfortable.
Noise reduction
It should be noted that mats contribute to noise reduction. If the room has an outdoor area, and you plan to hide the echoes in the room, select area rug pads that are safe for the vinyl plank flooring.
Cons of using rugs
You need to understand that laying a rug pad has its drawbacks. If the model is not suitable for the vinyl floor, then the coating may be damaged. This can cause you to trip and fall. In most cases, there is a high chance of falls if the mats are not fixed in the room.
This is most dangerous for people over 65 years of age. After all, they have rather weak bones, so the risk of a hip fracture is high. If your plans include using the mats that come with the pillows, this would be the best option. Especially if an elderly person lives with you.
The rug pad can promote mold growth, as well as absorb odors and bacteria. Therefore, you have to clean more often. However, some options are difficult to clean. If you have natural fiber rugs, it can provoke allergic reactions.
Scientists believe that the rug pad can change lung function because household allergens accumulate in them. If not cared for, carpets can cause asthma. This affects mainly children.
What cannot be used for vinyl flooring?
It’s important to know which carpet options and substances would be inappropriate for vinyl plank flooring.
Carpets containing synthetic rubber
Often such models are made of chenille. This is a type of yarn that can stain, especially after contact with chemicals.
Cleaners with abrasive particles or with steam
If you plan to clean vinyl flooring, you should not use steam cleaners. If the coating is in contact with high temperatures, then you risk irreversibly damaging it. You should also refrain from using cleaning products that contain abrasive particles.
They can leave scratches on the floor surface. Don’t believe when a manufacturer says vinyl flooring is scratch resistant. It is better to refrain from such cleaning products as a preventive measure.
Bleachers
These are classic household chemicals that can be used when cleaning tiles in the kitchen. They can be used to remove stains from clothing. The vinyl plank flooring cannot be cleaned with bleach. After all, the coating may lose its shade.
Ammonia cleaners
If you use these products when cleaning your vinyl floor, cracks may form on the surface. Therefore, it is better to look for safer and more natural formulations.
Features of the choice of rugs
If you’re looking for the perfect vinyl floor mat, there are a few important things to consider when choosing.
Main tips
Try to follow a few tips, namely:
- Choose options that have a cotton base. It must not slip.
- Pay attention to models made from natural fibers. Most models don’t come with underlay, so you’ll have to buy one separately for the added safety of your vinyl floor.
- Select a foam rubber backing. Better if a rug pad is with a memory effect.
If you are on a budget, you can pay attention to the cost. However, don’t skimp too much. After all, a low price indicates low-quality rugs. It is better to opt for high-quality goods.
After all, you can save money in the future. You do not often have to buy low-quality models that can damage the floor and also provoke slipping.
FAQ
Many questions come up when it comes to luxury vinyl plank flooring and choosing the rug pad for it. The answers to them will be presented below.
Wool or cotton-based carpets look good on vinyl plank flooring. They do not spoil the floor, even if they create friction.
Not the best solution would be rubber-based carpets. Vinyl contains chemicals that react with rubber of various origins. The chemical reaction is caused by heat, such as underfloor heating or sunlight. Therefore, the floor can be painted.
Many rugs can transfer their pigments to vinyl boards. Especially when exposed to sunlight or other chemicals. Therefore, stains or burnt areas may form.
It is important to use a rug pad. Many people think that this is not necessary. This creates additional protection for the vinyl floor.
Results
As you can see, there are many options for rugs that are appropriate for a vinyl floor. Try to choose options that do not slip and do not damage the vinyl flooring. Read about Best entry mats for hardwood floors
