Old, cracked or outdated tiled floors can have an enormous impact on the comfort and aesthetics of your home, but updating them can be a big task. Retiling or replacing tile floors with floorboards is usually very labour intensive, and it may simply cost more than what the budget allows.
That’s why so many homeowners are turning to vinyl planks—not only can they be laid over the top of an existing tiled floor, but they can help you achieve the same attractive look of floorboards without the hefty price tag.
What are vinyl planks and how do they work?
Vinyl planks are a smart flooring solution that allow you to install beautiful timber-look flooring, without the hassle of having to remove the existing floor surface.
Constructed by combining vinyl with various protective and reinforcement layers for added durability, the planks are finished with a life-like scratch resistant coating that mimics the look of real timber flooring and can be installed over the top of most floor surfaces including timber, concrete and - you guessed it - tiled floors.
Typically installed with a rubber underlay for enhanced acoustic performance and superior comfort underfoot, vinyl plank flooring is also usually resistant to water damage and slip-proof, making it a highly practical flooring solution, even in wet areas.
Can you lay vinyl planks over tiles without seeing the tile joints?
A common concern for homeowners considering laying vinyl plank flooring over tile surfaces is the possibility of the joint or grout lines between the tiles on the floor below showing through.
While this can be an issue if the tile joints on your floor are quite prominent, it’s a relatively easy work around by simply applying one or two layers of a levelling compound to create a smooth surface prior to laying the underlay and planks. This will effectively make the grout lines disappear.
How do vinyl planks compare to the alternatives
The rubber properties of vinyl flooring tend to provide significantly better sound acoustics compared to the hardwood and engineered timber alternatives, while still proving to be highly durable flooring material. However, it’s the affordability of vinyl floor boards that tends to appeal most to homeowners.
Not only does vinyl plank flooring cost a fraction of the price of hardwood or engineered timber flooring while still emulating the same timber grain effect, but the ability to lay the planks over your existing tiled floor means that most DIY-ers can manage the installation themselves, saving again on labour costs.
Ustik’s innovative peel-and-stick plank design makes the installation process even easier—while traditional vinyl floor boards still require the use of an adhesive to install, Ustik planks can be applied directly to the floor or underlay without the need for messy glues, screeds or tools.
Find out more about our innovative product range or visit our online store to order a sample today!