Vinyl Plank Flooring For Outdoors

Vinyl plank flooring has become increasingly popular for outdoor applications due to its durability, affordability, and ease of installation. Unlike traditional wood or tile flooring, vinyl planks are waterproof, UV-resistant, and can withstand extreme weather conditions. This makes them an ideal choice for patios, decks, balconies, and other outdoor areas that are exposed to the elements.

Benefits of Vinyl Plank Flooring for Outdoors

There are numerous benefits to using vinyl plank flooring for outdoor applications. These include:

Durability: Vinyl planks are highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, furniture, and other wear and tear. They are also resistant to scratches, dents, and stains.
Waterproof: Vinyl planks are 100% waterproof, making them an excellent choice for outdoor areas that are exposed to rain, snow, or other moisture. They will not rot, swell, or warp, even when submerged in water.
UV-Resistant: Vinyl planks are UV-resistant, meaning they will not fade or discolor when exposed to sunlight. This makes them ideal for outdoor areas that receive a lot of sunlight.
Easy to Install: Vinyl planks are easy to install, even for DIYers. They can be installed over most existing subfloors, including concrete, wood, and tile. They are also self-aligning, which makes installation quick and easy.
Affordable: Vinyl plank flooring is an affordable option for outdoor flooring. It is less expensive than traditional wood or tile flooring, and it requires less maintenance and upkeep.

Types of Vinyl Plank Flooring for Outdoors

There are two main types of vinyl plank flooring for outdoor use:

Solid Vinyl Plank: Solid vinyl plank flooring is made from a single piece of vinyl, which makes it very durable. It is also more expensive than laminate vinyl plank flooring.
Laminate Vinyl Plank: Laminate vinyl plank flooring is made from a layer of vinyl that is laminated to a backing material. It is less durable than solid vinyl plank flooring, but it is also more affordable.

How to Choose Vinyl Plank Flooring for Outdoors

When choosing vinyl plank flooring for outdoor use, there are a few factors to consider:

Durability: Choose a vinyl plank flooring that is durable enough to withstand the amount of foot traffic and wear and tear that it will be exposed to.
Waterproof: Make sure the vinyl plank flooring you choose is 100% waterproof. This is especially important for outdoor areas that are exposed to rain, snow, or other moisture.
UV-Resistance: Choose a vinyl plank flooring that is UV-resistant. This will help prevent the flooring from fading or discoloring when exposed to sunlight.
Cost: Consider your budget when choosing vinyl plank flooring for outdoor use. Solid vinyl plank flooring is more expensive than laminate vinyl plank flooring, but it is also more durable.

Installation of Vinyl Plank Flooring for Outdoors

Vinyl plank flooring is easy to install, even for DIYers. The following steps will help you install vinyl plank flooring for outdoor use:

Prepare the Subfloor: The subfloor must be level, smooth, and dry before you begin installing the vinyl plank flooring. If the subfloor is not level, you will need to level it using a self-leveling compound.
Install the Underlayment: An underlayment is recommended to provide a cushion for the vinyl plank flooring and to help prevent moisture from seeping up from the subfloor.
Lay Out the Vinyl Planks: Start laying out the vinyl planks from the center of the room and work your way out. Make sure to leave a small gap between the planks and the walls to allow for expansion and contraction.
Lock the Vinyl Planks: Vinyl planks have a locking mechanism that allows them to be easily locked together. Simply align the planks and press them together until you hear a click.
Trim the Vinyl Planks: Once the vinyl planks are installed, you will need to trim them to fit around the edges of the room. You can use a utility knife or a circular saw to trim the planks.

Maintenance of Vinyl Plank Flooring for Outdoors

Vinyl plank flooring for outdoor use requires very little maintenance. Simply sweep or mop the floor regularly to keep it clean. You can also use a mild detergent to clean the floor if it is heavily soiled. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the floor.