What Is Composite Tile Flooring?
Vinyl tile is a composite, layered construction consisting of:
A) Protective wear layer: Urethane and other high-performance wear layers make the product easy to clean and resist scratches and scuffs. Enhanced urethane offers the maximum amount of protection and is priced above regular urethane. Less expensive vinyl no-wax tile does not have this protective wear layer.
B) Protective clear film layer: This film adds durability and helps protects against rips, tears and gouges.
C) Printed design layer: On this layer, a rotogravure printing process creates the myriad of designs available in vinyl tile. The visuals range from very realistic interpretations of natural materials to original and unique patterns.
D) Vinyl tile backing: This bottom-most layer adds structural strength and durability. Generally the thicker the backing, the more durable the product.
Where Can I Use Composite Tile?
Composite tile can be used anywhere in your home, including below grade level bathrooms and basements. It is a good choice for areas where you want a combination of economical performance and design. Vinyl tile has many of the benefits of vinyl sheet, but the modular tile format does have seams where dirt and moisture can accumulate. Take extra care in bathroom installations to promptly wipe up moisture and pooling water, which might soak into the seams and damage the floor substrate. Like sheet vinyl, vinyl tile should not be used on stairs.
Keep in Mind:
• Although vinyl is impervious to water, the adhesive that is used to attach it to the floor is not.
• Tile seams allow water to seep in, which can affect the adhesive bond and the floor substrate. Mop standing water promptly.