Why winter is a great time to install luxury vinyl flooring
Winter can actually be an excellent time to install luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) for several reasons:
- Stable Temperature for Installation
- Luxury vinyl planks or tiles need to acclimate to the room’s temperature before installation, which is typically around 65-85°F (18-29°C). During winter, homes tend to maintain more consistent indoor temperatures, making it easier to ensure that the vinyl flooring acclimates properly.
- Additionally, in colder weather, there is less chance of excessive heat causing issues like warping or expanding during the acclimation process.
- Low Humidity
- Winter air is generally drier, reducing the risk of moisture affecting the flooring. Luxury vinyl is water-resistant, but extreme moisture can still cause issues. With lower humidity in the winter, the floor is less likely to warp or buckle over time.
- Contractor Availability and Better Rates
- Many contractors are less busy during the winter months since flooring installations tend to peak in spring and fall. This means you might have more scheduling flexibility and possibly even better rates or discounts on services and products.
- Increased Indoor Time
- Winter often means more time spent indoors, so it’s a great opportunity to work on home improvement projects like flooring installation. Since LVF has minimal disruption during installation (it doesn’t require refinishing or sanding), it’s a perfect project for winter when people are home more often.
- Moisture Control
- In places with cold winters, snow and ice can bring moisture into the home through wet shoes and boots. However, because LVF is water-resistant, it’s ideal for areas like entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms, where moisture is prevalent. It won’t absorb the water and is easy to clean up after.
- Comfort During Installation
- If you’re installing LVF in areas like basements, kitchens, or bathrooms, you can avoid the discomfort of working in hot summer conditions. Winter indoor temperatures are typically more comfortable for working, particularly when laying down adhesive or installing click-lock planks.
- Protects Existing Floors
- If you need to replace older or worn-out flooring, installing luxury vinyl in winter helps ensure that your existing floors are protected from snow, ice, and mud that winter typically brings. LVF can help create a protective barrier against the harsh elements.
- Longer Drying Times in Controlled Environments
- If you are installing glue-down vinyl planks, winter can actually be beneficial because indoor heating systems tend to ensure consistent temperatures in your home. This helps the adhesive to dry at a controlled rate, allowing for a smooth installation process. The controlled, consistent environment minimizes the risk of uneven adhesion, which can sometimes happen in more variable conditions like extreme heat or humidity.
- Energy Efficiency Benefits
- After installing LVF, you may notice improved insulation and comfort in the home. The material provides an additional layer of insulation, which can help with temperature regulation in colder months. This is especially beneficial in areas like basements, entryways, or rooms with tile or concrete floors, which can feel colder during winter.
- Minimal Impact on Outdoor Conditions
- Winter weather can often make it difficult or messy to handle outdoor projects. With LVF, you can install it inside without worrying about the rain, snow, or cold temperatures outside affecting your home’s construction. Since LVF is relatively easy to cut and install without generating much mess, the project remains simple even if outdoor conditions are harsh.
- Avoiding Seasonal Rush
- Spring and summer are peak seasons for home renovations, meaning many flooring contractors and supply stores are often busy. This can lead to longer wait times for both materials and installers. During winter, there’s less demand for home improvement services, which means you can often get your materials more quickly and have faster installation turnaround.
- Easier Cleanup
- Winter can be a less messy season for flooring installation because you’re not dealing with dust or dirt brought in from outside. Snow and mud are less likely to make their way into your home, reducing the chances of debris affecting the installation process.
- Protecting Against Winter Wear and Tear
- As winter brings more moisture, dirt, and salt into the home, LVF’s durability and resistance to stains, scratches, and moisture become an added advantage. The floor will hold up well to the wear and tear of winter without looking worn out. Additionally, LVF is easier to clean compared to carpet, which can trap dirt, moisture, and odors during the winter months.
- Improved Aesthetic for Holiday Decor
- Winter is often a time for family gatherings, holidays, and celebrations. Installing LVF before the holiday season can elevate the look and feel of your home, providing a fresh, modern, and stylish floor to complement your festive decorations. Whether you’re hosting guests or spending time with family, a newly installed floor can make a big difference in the overall ambiance.
- Prevention of Expansion or Shrinking Issues
- Vinyl floors are less susceptible to expansion or contraction when temperatures drop. Unlike hardwood, which can expand and contract with changes in temperature, LVF tends to maintain its shape and size more consistently. The cold temperatures of winter actually help prevent the material from expanding too much, ensuring that your floor remains stable during the installation process.
- Increase Home Value Before Spring Selling Season
- If you plan to sell your home in the spring, installing luxury vinyl flooring in winter can be a wise investment. Many potential buyers appreciate a fresh, modern flooring upgrade. By completing the installation during the winter months, you’ll have your home ready for showings in the spring, when the real estate market typically picks up.
In summary, winter offers a variety of practical and financial advantages when installing luxury vinyl flooring. From improved acclimation conditions and better availability of contractors to long-term durability and aesthetic appeal, it’s a great season to undertake this home improvement project!
Floor Plus More is a one stop shop of quality options to professionally finish hardwood floors. We sell a wide variety of quality pre-finished and unfinished hardwood flooring, luxury vinyl flooring, and engineered wood flooring to both homeowners and flooring contractors. To learn more visit us online at https://www.floorplusmore.com/
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