Achieving Perfection: The Importance of Self-Leveling Cement Before Laying Vinyl Planks

When it comes to installing vinyl plank flooring, ensuring a level and smooth surface is paramount to achieving a flawless finish. This is where self-leveling cement comes into play, serving as a crucial preparatory step that sets the foundation for a successful installation. At Eco Flooring, we understand the significance of this process and are here to guide you through the benefits and steps involved in using self-leveling cement before laying vinyl planks.

Creating a Seamless Foundation

Self-leveling cement is a specialized compound designed to create a flat and even surface, eliminating imperfections such as dips, bumps, and unevenness in the subfloor. This ensures that the vinyl planks adhere properly and lay flat, preventing any unsightly gaps or unevenness in the finished floor. By addressing subfloor irregularities before installation, self-leveling cement helps to create a seamless foundation that enhances the overall appearance and longevity of the flooring.

Ensuring Proper Adhesion

One of the key advantages of self-leveling cement is its ability to improve the bond between the subfloor and the vinyl planks. By filling in gaps and irregularities, self-leveling cement creates a smooth and uniform surface that promotes better adhesion and stability. This helps to prevent issues such as peeling, lifting, or shifting of the vinyl planks over time, ensuring a durable and long-lasting flooring solution for your space.

Enhancing Moisture Resistance

Another benefit of using self-leveling cement is its ability to improve moisture resistance in the subfloor. By creating a solid and impermeable layer, self-leveling cement helps to prevent moisture from seeping up through the subfloor and affecting the integrity of the vinyl planks. This is particularly important in areas prone to high humidity or moisture, such as basements, bathrooms, or kitchens, where proper moisture management is essential to the longevity of the flooring.

The Installation Process

The process of applying self-leveling cement is relatively straightforward but requires careful preparation and attention to detail. First, the subfloor must be thoroughly cleaned and any debris or loose material removed. Next, the self-leveling cement is mixed according to the manufacturer's instructions and poured onto the subfloor. Using a trowel or similar tool, the cement is spread evenly across the surface and allowed to self-level. Finally, the surface is smoothed out with a finishing tool to achieve a flat and even finish.

In summary, self-leveling cement plays a vital role in the installation of vinyl plank flooring, serving as the foundation upon which a flawless finish is built. By creating a level and smooth surface, self-leveling cement enhances the adhesion, stability, and moisture resistance of the flooring, ensuring a durable and long-lasting solution for your space. At Eco Flooring, we prioritize quality and attention to detail in every installation, including the use of self-leveling cement to achieve perfection in your flooring project.

Elevating Interiors: The Versatility of Vinyl Stone Panels in Bathroom and Living Spaces

Vinyl stone panels have revolutionized the way homeowners approach interior design, offering a cost-effective and versatile solution for enhancing walls in both bathrooms and living spaces. These panels mimic the natural beauty and texture of stone, bringing a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. Let's explore how vinyl stone panels can elevate the aesthetics of bathrooms and living areas alike.

Luxurious Bathroom Retreats: Vinyl stone panels are an excellent choice for transforming bathroom walls into luxurious retreats. Their realistic stone textures and finishes add depth and character to the space, creating a spa-like ambiance that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether used as accent walls behind the bathtub or throughout the entire bathroom, vinyl stone panels instantly elevate the aesthetic appeal of the space.

Durability and Moisture Resistance: One of the key benefits of using vinyl stone panels in bathrooms is their durability and moisture resistance. Unlike natural stone, which requires regular maintenance and sealing to prevent water damage, vinyl stone panels are inherently waterproof and resistant to mold and mildew. This makes them ideal for use in wet areas such as showers and tub surrounds, where moisture exposure is inevitable.

Easy Installation and Maintenance: Vinyl stone panels are incredibly easy to install, making them a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors alike. With their lightweight design and interlocking system, these panels can be installed quickly and efficiently, saving both time and labor costs. Additionally, vinyl stone panels require minimal maintenance, simply needing to be wiped down with a damp cloth to keep them looking pristine.

Creating Timeless Living Spaces: In living areas, vinyl stone panels add a touch of timeless elegance and sophistication to walls. Whether used as a focal point behind the fireplace or as an accent wall in the living room, these panels create a sense of warmth and texture that enhances the overall ambiance of the space. Their versatility allows homeowners to experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures to achieve their desired aesthetic.

Cost-Effective Alternative: Vinyl stone panels offer a cost-effective alternative to natural stone, allowing homeowners to achieve the look of luxury without breaking the bank. Compared to traditional stone materials, vinyl stone panels are significantly more affordable and require less labor for installation. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners who want to enhance the beauty of their interiors without overspending.

Vinyl stone panels offer a versatile and cost-effective solution for enhancing walls in both bathrooms and living spaces. With their realistic stone textures, durability, and ease of installation, these panels have become a popular choice among homeowners looking to elevate the aesthetics of their interiors. Whether used in bathrooms to create luxurious retreats or in living areas to add timeless elegance, vinyl stone panels are sure to make a lasting impression.

2023 Vinyl Flooring Color Trends: Exploring Popular Choices and Palettes

As we step into 2023, interior design trends continue to evolve, including the color preferences for vinyl flooring. Whether you're planning a home renovation or a commercial space upgrade, staying current with color trends can help you make stylish and informed choices. Here, we delve into the vinyl flooring color trends shaping the design landscape in 2023.

1. Earthy Neutrals:

Neutral tones reminiscent of earth and natural materials are making a strong comeback in 2023. Shades like warm beiges, soft taupes, and sandy browns create a calming and grounded ambiance, making them perfect for creating serene living spaces.

2. Moody Blues:

Deep, rich blues are gaining popularity, particularly in luxury vinyl planks (LVP). These blues evoke feelings of sophistication and depth, making them ideal for spaces where you want to make a bold statement, such as bedrooms or home offices.

3. Soft Greys:

Light grey remains a steadfast choice, but in 2023, softer, warm greys are taking center stage. These gentle greys can provide a modern, minimalist backdrop while offering a touch of coziness and versatility for various design aesthetics.

4. Warm Wood Tones:

Vinyl flooring in warm wood-inspired tones, like honey oak and chestnut, continues to be a staple. These hues infuse spaces with a sense of timelessness and comfort, making them suitable for both residential and commercial settings.

5. Rustic Reds:

Rustic reds and terracotta shades are emerging as accents in vinyl flooring designs. When used selectively, they can inject energy and character into spaces, particularly in kitchens and dining areas.

6. Dark and Dramatic:

Deep, dark vinyl flooring colors, such as ebony and charcoal, are being embraced for their dramatic impact. These shades create a sense of opulence and luxury, making them ideal for upscale interiors.

7. Muted Pastels:

Soft pastel shades, including blush pink, pale mint, and soft lavender, are making their way into vinyl flooring choices. They lend a sense of delicacy and playfulness to spaces, especially in bedrooms and children's rooms.

When selecting vinyl flooring colors in 2023, it's essential to consider your design vision, the size of the space, and the mood you want to create. These color trends offer a wide range of options to suit diverse preferences and design goals, ensuring that your flooring choice aligns perfectly with your overall interior concept.

Compare with Parquet Flooring, Laminate Flooring and Vinyl Flooring

Choosing a floor is not as easy as it sounds. Especially now, when the decorative layers on laminate and vinyl substrates are so realistic that they look like solid wood floors. So how do you decide? To help you choose, we compared parquet, laminates and vinyl flooring and list their advantages and disadvantages below.

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Parquet flooring

Parquet is a type of wood flooring made by arranging small slats of wood in distinct, repeating patterns. It's popular for its unique design and durability. It is typically made from hardwoods such as oak, maple, or cherry and can be finished in a variety of stains or seals to match different décor styles. Because the parquet strips are hardwood, parquet flooring is similar in look and performance to traditional solid-hardwood strip flooring.

Photo by Furknsaglam

Pros:

• Natural beauty: Parquet flooring brings a sense of warmth and elegance to a space and can increase the value of a home.

• Durability: Parquet floors can last for decades with proper care and maintenance and can be refinished multiple times to restore their appearance.

• Easy to clean: Parquet floors are easy to sweep and mop and can be finished with a sealant to resist scratches and stains.

• Hypoallergenic: Parquet floors do not trap dust, pet dander, and other allergens, making them a good choice for people with allergies or asthma.

Cons:

• Expensive: Parquet flooring can be more expensive than other types of flooring, both in terms of initial cost and maintenance costs.

• Not suitable for high moisture areas: Parquet flooring can warp or buckle if it gets too wet, so it may not be suitable for bathrooms or basements.

• Scratches and dings: Parquet floors can be scratched or dented by high heels, pet claws, and furniture.

• Not suitable for underfloor heating: Parquet flooring can be affected by changes in temperature and humidity, which can cause it to expand or contract.

Laminate flooring

Laminate flooring is a type of flooring that mimics the look of natural wood or stone using a high-resolution photograph of the material that is sealed under a clear protective layer. It is made up of multiple layers of material, including a core of high-density fibreboard, and is available in a wide variety of colours, patterns, and finishes.

Photo by Max Vakhtbovych

Pros:

• Cost-effective: Laminate flooring is usually less expensive than solid hardwood flooring and can be a good option for budget-conscious homeowners.

• Easy to install and maintain: Laminate flooring can be installed as a floating floor, which means it does not need to be nailed or glued to the subfloor. It is also easy to clean and maintain.

• Wide range of patterns and colours: Laminate flooring comes in a wide variety of patterns and colours, making it easy to find a design that complements any decor.

Cons:

• Not as durable as hardwood: Laminate flooring is not as durable as solid hardwood flooring and may show signs of wear and tear over time.

• Not suitable for high moisture areas: Laminate flooring can be damaged by water, making it not suitable for bathrooms or basements.

• Edges and corners can chip or peel: Over time, the edges and corners of laminate flooring can chip or peel, which can be unsightly.

• Not as warm underfoot: Laminate flooring can be cold and hard underfoot, making it less comfortable than other flooring options.

Vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring is a type of flooring made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) that is available in sheets, tiles, and planks. It is available in a wide variety of colours, patterns, and finishes, including options that mimic the look of natural materials such as wood and stone.

Photo by Jonathan Borba

Pros:

• Durable: Vinyl flooring is very durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.

• Easy to clean and maintain: Vinyl flooring is easy to clean and maintain and can be resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture.

• Water-resistant: Vinyl flooring is water-resistant, making it suitable for high moisture areas such as bathrooms and basements.

• Scratch-resistant: While hardwood will show dings and dents after years of use, vinyl plank is super hard to scratch thanks to its ultra-durable wear layer.

• Easy fix: Just replace the damaged vinyl flooring with a new vinyl flooring, and the replacement process is simple and easy.

Cons:

• Not suitable for uneven subfloor: While the installation process for vinyl is relatively simple, the problem comes in the pre-installation stage when one must get the subfloor ready. Remember that the subfloor needs to be cleared of all particles for the tiles to look neat and uniform.

• Can Be Dented: If something heavy and sharp hits it hard enough to penetrate the wear layer, the entire plank will be dented forever. This can also apply to heavy furniture that rests on vinyl plank for long periods of time.

Photo by Furknsaglam , Max Vakhtbovych , Jonathan Borba

When choosing between parquet flooring, laminate flooring, and vinyl flooring, there are several factors to consider, including:

1. Budget: Parquet flooring is typically the most expensive option, while vinyl flooring is the most affordable. Laminate falls somewhere in between.

2. Durability: Vinyl flooring is often the most durable option, as it is resistant to moisture and wear and tear. Laminate is also durable, while parquet can be prone to warping or cupping if exposed to moisture.

3. Maintenance: Parquet flooring requires regular maintenance and upkeep, including sanding and refinishing, to keep it looking its best. Laminate and vinyl flooring are generally lower maintenance options.

4. Aesthetic: Parquet flooring offers a natural, authentic look that is unmatched by laminate or vinyl flooring. However, advances in decorative technology have made laminate and vinyl flooring much more realistic, making it difficult to distinguish from real wood.

5. Installation: Parquet flooring is difficult to install and typically requires professional installation. Laminate and vinyl flooring are generally easier to install and can be done by a DIYer or a professional.

illustration by freepik

Ultimately, the best flooring option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, durability, maintenance requirements, and desired aesthetic when making your decision. We hope you learn something helpful in this blog post and welcome you to explore our blog and Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF) page.

Why It Is Wise To Engage A Professional For Vinyl Flooring Installation

The Motivation for DIY Installation

This blog post explores why you should engage a professional for vinyl flooring installation. Are you a seasoned Do-It-Yourself (DIY) practitioner or an enthusiast who seeks to gain hands-on experience? As interior architecture and design evolve, the allure of building and improving your own home continues to influence DIY. Hence, there is a motivation to explore vinyl flooring options and install them yourself. Nevertheless, there are advantages that only professional contractors can bring with their vocational knowledge and experience.

Licences and Warranties

Would you feel safe with unlicensed workers working under your shelters? Well, certainly a negative. A licensed contractor who can bring quality assurance is the top priority and undeniable advantage. Consumers should search for companies registered in the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) directory. Check under the work heads category of TR08 to generate a list of BCA-registered contractors for timber, vinyl, and laminate flooring works. These contractors are more knowledgeable in HDB’s regulations for installation and renovation works. Besides, you can enquire more with the companies about their environmental certifications and industrial warranties. Knowing about the safety and sustainable benefits of the flooring is an added assurance for you and your occupants.

Insider Knowledge of Trends 

Being a professional in the interior industry, contractors have first-hand knowledge of the latest trends and their suitability for various home and commercial spaces. From Wood-Plastic Composites (WPCs) to Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVTs) to Premium Resilient Floorings (PRFs), there is a wide range of available options. A professional can help to shortlist and recommend suitable vinyl flooring styles that fit well with the surrounding interiors. As vinyl flooring gains popularity, its prices rise with the direction of demand. Having industry foresight, qualified contractors can tab into insights not readily available to the public. Gaining insider knowledge and industry insights will help you to compare vinyl flooring options and prices and make informed decisions. It is unsettling to realise that the planks and tools are unsuitable and costly after purchasing them. Personal preferences and home or work space trends are the core influences in flooring decisions. After all, it is in your own home or workspace. However, it is wise to engage a professional for advice and installation to ensure quality and durability in the long term.

Prompt Inspection and Precise Installation

With the advent of a click-lock mechanism without or with minimum gluing of vinyl floor planks, the complexity of installation reduces. While it is possible to carry out DIY installation, engaging specialists with proven track records would be more practical. You may have comprehensively researched and learned the essentials and would like to carry out installing yourself. However, there is still a risk that the result may fall shy of expectations. There may be hidden irregularities such as protruding or sinking subfloor, which consequently may cause poor installation of new planks or tiles. Other risks include gaps, dampness and termite infestation that are not obvious in plain sight. There is also difficulty in aligning well with the walls and transiting consistently between rooms. Through proficiency in inspecting the flooring and surrounding fixtures, a professional can detect hidden irregularities and risks promptly and carry out installation precisely. Therefore, it is wise to engage a professional for initial installation while exploring the DIY option for future replacement.

At NBL Express - Eco Flooring, we provide helpful consultation, top-graded supplies and installation of premium resilient vinyl flooring. Contact us for a free quotation, or visit our homepage to learn more.

Why Traditional Vinyl Flooring Can Be Harmful To Health

Why Are Vinyl Floorings Popular?

Vinyl Floorings mainly come in plank, tile and sheet forms and are customisable to match interiors and furniture. With their appearances of classic designs of granite, marble and stone patterns, vinyl floorings are attractive in various interiors. They have noise and shock cushioning properties to reduce the impact on the ears and foot soles. While they gain popularity with these features among flooring contractors and users, research on traditional vinyl floorings reveals that they contain toxins. Here are three main chemical compounds of traditional vinyl flooring and why long-term exposure to them can harm our health.

Phthalates (Phthalate Esters)

Phthalates are chemical plasticisers to soften the rigidity of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) in vinyl floorings and make them more flexible. Vinyl floorings are of engineered PVC composition, which requires chemical compounds such as phthalates to maintain their durability and flexibility. Two common phthalate types are diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and di-isononyl phthalate (DINP), typically found in building construction, interior manufacturing, and household products. DEHP and DINP contain carcinogens, which are agents that induce genetic changes in body cells and may cause cancerous tumours. Phthalates also contain toxins that harm the endocrine ecosystem of body glands that balance hormones and reduce toxicity. In prolonged exposure, phthalates harm the respiratory system as it causes airway inflammation and consequently trigger breathing difficulty. In addition, there are other risks in behavioural, neurological and reproductive issues. A journal article, “Phthalates and Their Impacts on Human Health”, reported that phthalates exposure causes a higher risk for children in their developmental years.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Vinyl Floorings contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are compounds with a high concentration of carbon and lead and have a low boiling point. The low boiling point exerts high vapour pressures, which causes their fluid molecules to evaporate readily into a vapour or gaseous state. This chemical characteristic is known as high volatility. VOCs emit via “off-gassing”, where material production traps organic chemicals in solid and liquid forms, then gradually releases them in aerosol particles or gases. In addition, the adhesive for glueing down traditional vinyl flooring reacts with the planks and emits VOCs via the “off-gassing” process. VOCs emit into the air during flooring production and after installation and pollute the surrounding air. VOCs such as formaldehyde are adversaries to health as they cause frequent headaches, queasiness and breathing complications. Further complications include irritation in the eyes, nostrils, throats, lungs and nervous system. Industrial workers with high exposure to formaldehyde are vulnerable to contracting leukaemia and nose and throat cancers, as reported in a Consumer Reports article.

Antimicrobial Agents

Vinyl floorings may have antimicrobial agents such as biocides and fungicides to prevent or slow down the growth of bacteria, fungi and other pathogenic microorganisms. However, there are adverse side or counter effects. Common antimicrobial agents may include ammonia, benzothiazole and nanosilver. They can cause eye infections, dermatitis (skin irritation) and respiratory inflammation. Those with lung allergies and asthma have a higher risk of exposure to antimicrobial agents. Nevertheless, antimicrobial agents are still essential in reducing harmful microorganisms. Hence, flooring manufacturers take strict measures to ensure antimicrobial agents are within safe levels and limit their usage for consumer health.

Invest In Resilient Vinyl Flooring

Flooring takes up a vast interior space, and thus long-term exposure can cause detrimental health effects. As modern vinyl floorings evolve in production, they become safer for health and the environment while keeping the familiar features of their traditional counterparts intact. You can start investing in resilient vinyl floorings that have low toxins for the safe health of your loved ones. We hope you learn something helpful in this blog post and welcome you to explore our blog and Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF) page.

Vinyl and Linoleum Floorings - How Are They Different

“Vinyl Planks in Herringbone Pattern”, by Slaughterbeck Floors, licensed under Creative Commons CC 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0).

“Linoleum - Oaken parquet”, by Pauk, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.5 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.5).

Similar but Different

The vinyl versus linoleum floorings comparison yields similarities and differences. Vinyl and linoleum floorings typically come in plank or sheet forms with 48 to 60 inches in length and about 6 to 8 inches wide. Both floorings have glue-down and click-lock planks or peel-and-stick sheets as installation types. They are durable and resilient for various applications across high-traffic homes, work and public spaces. Due to their similarity in appearance and properties, people sometimes use the names interchangeably. Nevertheless, there are noteworthy differences between vinyl and linoleum to learn, compare, and determine which option is more suitable.

Materials Composition

Synthetic materials, namely polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resins, limestones and hardwood fibres, are the main components of vinyl. Vinyl flooring goes through a higher complex process because of its multi-layered structure - bottom, core, decor, wear and finish layers. Due to its polyurethane protective surface layer, vinyl flooring generally does not need a sealant, but it has a lower lifespan of up to about 25 years. As years go by, the protective layer will gradually wear off. Hence, you may need to reseal to improve its shine and anti-slip. Generally, vinyl flooring has a higher resistance against water, scratch, light and shock exposure due to its higher engineered composition.

Conversely, raw and recycled materials, namely limestones, linseed oils, wood barks, wood flour, and pine resins, constitute the main components of linoleum. Due to its higher composition of biodegradable materials, linoleum is an eco-friendly and sustainable choice. Although it is relatively resistant to water, linoleum is more porous and thus more vulnerable to moisture permeating. Linoleum needs sealing upon installation and resealing every two years in commercial settings and every three to ten years in residential areas. It has a higher make-up of recyclable and biodegradable raw materials with a typical application lifespan of up to 40 years. Hence, linoleum is more eco-friendly and sustainable but more vulnerable to damage in areas with high moisture and light exposure.

Manufacturing Processes

Vinyl flooring's manufacturing process involves bonding PVC or vinyl acetate (PVA) resins or binders with mineral fillers and colour pigments onto resilient wood fibre cores to produce vinyl boards. Add thermal stabilising agents through a heated tunnel pressing helps to prevent the degradation of PVC and PVA plastics during manufacturing and in applications. Flush inks using rotogravure printing to form a printed film layer of hardwood or ceramic motifs and apply on top of vinyl boards. Alternatively, adding coloured chips with embossed textures and clear coatings can form three-dimensional effects of marble or stone. Subsequently, apply a crystal wear layer and a final layer of polyurethane with ceramic beads protective coating before cutting into planks.

Linoleum flooring's manufacturing process involves the natural oxidation of linseed oil at high heat in industrial cylindrical kettles. Next, add natural resins, wood bark and other fillers to oxidised layers. Then, press them into sheets, apply them to jute boards or limestone-saturated canvases, and heat further for weeks to harden for strength and resilience. Modern manufacturing incorporates inlaying different linoleum cut pieces on backing materials to form decorative hardwood or marble motifs. Alternatively, apply granulated coloured materials through stencils onto backing materials and pressing onto sheets to produce marble or stone aesthetic effects before cutting into planks.

Style and Shades

Both floorings can realistically replicate hardwood, marble and stone styles and shades. Vinyl flooring’s visual appeal to hardwood and stone styles is from its printed film layer, commonly printed with a rotary press. Hence, vinyl can provide more intricate shades and patterns with realistic effects of various natural materials. However, the drawback is that once the above wear and protective layers over the decor layer start to diminish, its shades become vulnerable to fading too.

Contrarily, linoleum flooring has colours that seep beyond printed surfaces, which allows for retaining its natural shades under the sealant layer. It has a colourfast quality that maintains original patterns and consistent shades dimensionally throughout its planks or sheets without much fading. However, the disadvantage is that it limits the design styles and shades. Overall, vinyl offers more designs from synthetic materials and printing versatility, while linoleum offers more organic appeal from a higher composition of natural materials.

Advantages of Rubberised Flooring

“Rubber tiles on the floor of the second storey of the Old Supreme Court Building, Singapore”, by Jacklee, licensed under Creative Commons ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0).

Among the familiar flooring options for residential and commercial settings in Singapore, rubberised flooring is gradually rising in popularity. This trend is mainly due to its applicability in interior and exterior environments for general and specific purposes. Since rubber flooring’s early days in the 12th century, it progressively evolved to incorporate varied designs and improve user features. This blog post highlights the principal properties of rubberised flooring and consequently relates how they bring advantages in three applications.

Properties of Rubberised Flooring

• Three typical forms: rolls, tiles and mats for various applications in small, large, or odd spaces.

• Its thickness range is typically from 1/8 to 3/4 inches.

• High dimensional stability and toughness to protect the subfloor.

• Durable tensile strength to provide strong resilience against physical impact.

• Inherent elasticity to provide effective shock and vibration absorption.

• Safety properties of moisture, fire and static resistance.

• Friction-sliding coefficient of 0.85μ, well over the high slip-resistance value of 0.3μ.

• NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) of up to 0.15 and reduces footfall sound by up to 20 dB (decibels).

Child and Senior Friendly

Do you have bruises and scars from falling onto the floors during your younger days? Parents need to protect the young ones from suffering injuries. Not only the young ones, but we also do not want any mishap to happen to older folks or anyone. Widely used in child-care and senior-care centres due to its resilience and safety, you can deploy rubberised flooring at home. Despite being sturdy against impact and strong friction, it has a relatively soft surface to cushion accidental falls. The dimensional stability of modern rubberised flooring seamless installation and thus significantly reduces bumps or bends. As it provides an excellent foot grip and shock absorption, elders can feel safe while walking or doing exercises in the house. Besides foot-grip, it also offers high water and fire resistance that helps to prevent slip injuries and fire accidents. Hence, rubberised flooring is recommended for children and seniors and provides the whole family with peace of mind.

Exercise Readiness

The modular forms of rubberised flooring facilitate flexibility in installation and replacement and thus enable exercise readiness. Each tile has interlocking fringes that connect and lock with one another like a puzzle, which offers the flexibility to install and replace. As people get more conscious of fitness and active in exercising, incorporating physical exercises in living and working environments becomes prevalent. Rubber rolls and mats are available readily and customisable to hold exercising equipment’s sizes and overall floor plans. Whether setting up indoor yoga or gym rooms or incorporating some forms of dynamic exercises, rubberised flooring is the ideal option. You can conveniently perform varied dynamic motions such as bicep curls, bicycle crunches and burpee lunges at home or in work areas. Rubber tiles and rolls are sturdy and have excellent shock absorption to protect the inherent floor surface from fitness equipment. Their slip-resistance and optimised cushioning provide the much-needed comfort and assurance while you concentrate on workout routines and intensity. In a space-constraint environment, it is a concern that noises easily affect family and neighbours. Rubber flooring products have the ideal noise-absorbance to mitigate the noise impact from gym weights and exercising equipment.

“Dunamis Therapy and Fitness”, by Greatmats, licensed under Creative Commons ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Workplace Ergonomics

Compared to tiles and mats, rolls have broader floor coverage and customisation and produce fewer seams. Consequently, they are less vulnerable to dirt and moisture seeping in. Standing and walking on concrete surfaces all day can inhibit blood circulation and lead to leg muscle fatigue. Industrial rubber mats offer a suitable soft and supportive balance to reduce fatigue. Through high elasticity, tensile strength, shock absorbance and anti-static, rubber floors provide workers with a safer environment. With effective vibration and sound absorbance, rubber floors are relatively quiet to walk on and contribute to a conducive workspace. Being highly versatile to deploy, you can efficiently install or incorporate them into different commercial settings. They are highly applicable in high foot traffic areas such as co-working spaces, hospital wards, school sports halls, and indoor and outdoor sports arenas. Together with its durable tensile strength, rubberised flooring has moisture and heat resistance that facilitates low maintenance. Therefore, rubber flooring products are ergonomic in various workplace environments.

“Anti-fatigue mats flooring bumptop warehouse”, by Nows the Time, licensed under Creative Commons ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0).

Why Skirting Is Important For Vinyl Flooring

“Fußbodenleiste (Skirting Board)”, by Porsche 997 Carrera, licensed under Creative Commons ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Purpose Of Skirting

Skirting baseboards are typically vinyl or wooden strips covering the bases of interior walls. Performing the role of transition, skirting bridges hollow spaces between wall bases and floor edges. Its history dates back to the Victorian period when large-sized baseboards were popular to complement high ceilings and essential to close up floor perimeters against the walls. The historical features remained influential in modern interiors. Having an integral role in interior design, here are three key reasons why skirting is important for vinyl flooring.

Bridge Connecting Junctions

If there are visible gaps between wall bases and vinyl floor edges, they could be due to floating or glueless installation. Some level of space is necessary to accommodate the expansion and contraction of vinyl planks or tiles as the climate changes. The general rule of thumb is a one-quarter-inch gap between floorings and walls. Exposed spaces are vulnerable to dust trapping and moisture seeping in. Apart from gaps, there may be protruding electrical wirings, which pose a hazard. Forming as bridging junctions between adjoining wall bases and floor edges, skirting baseboards are effective in concealing exposed gaps and fittings. Hence, they act as safety barriers to prevent hazards while leaving enough room for expansion and contraction. Of course, if gaps or protrusions are too large, reworking or reinstalling affected flooring planks and walls may be necessary. Make sure to clarify with your contractor and seek industrial advice.

Protects Floors and Walls

Skirting baseboards protect wall bases from wear and tear from moving in or rearranging furniture. Furniture shifting is necessary when they are out of place or when cleaning the underneath trapped dust However, have you ever encountered markings on walls imprinted from moving bulky sofas and tables with protruding or irregular-shaped fittings? Chances are there is no skirting, or the baseboards are unsuitable. The projected baseboards facilitate a long-term protection barrier to shield floor edges and wall bases from grazing by furniture shifting. Besides a protection barrier, the baseboards create a space between furniture and wall surfaces to prevent grazing against each other. In addition, constant contact with a wet mop would eventually cause unsightly patches on the walls. During mopping floors, skirting baseboards stop the mop from touching wall surfaces. In November 2015, Singapore’s HDB introduced Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (UPVC) skirting to complement its flats’ vinyl flooring systems. UPVC skirting offers a consistent tone and seamless protection without installation joints.

Stylish and Streamlined Transition

Skirting provides an ideal solution for a stylish and streamlined transition between flooring edges and wall bases. Skirting baseboards help to align interior spaces and make a positive visual impact that defines your unique styles. The baseboards highlight accents to blank walls and add discernible dimensions at the bases, which raise the wall and floor profiles. The continued design offers a continuation of interior elements, which is most suitable to install along the stairs that flush against the walls. Double-layer design utilises dual tones for a harmonised colouring and detailed dimensional effect. For a simple and sleek transition, the pencil style is ideal for integrating the floor surfaces with the walls. For further design inspiration, you can refer to these two guides - “What is Skirting in Construction? Purpose and Types” and “9 Eye-Catching Skirting Designs”.

Why It Is Better To Install Flooring Before Painting Walls

“Empty Minimal Room With Window Shadow Pink Wall”, by Rawpixel.com, licensed under Freepik License.

The Flooring vs Walling Dilemma

Should you install flooring or paint walls first? Homeowners and contractors with renovation projects that require installing flooring and painting walls would face the precedence dilemma. Both tasks require major work that produces unpleasant wastes that accumulate and spill over to adjacent surfaces. Renovation practitioners agree that generally, flooring takes precedence as it causes a higher impact on walls than vice versa. Here are the key reasons why it is better to install flooring before painting walls.

Old Flooring Debris

Tearing up the old flooring is a tedious and messy task as debris and dirt gradually generate and accumulate. While taking protective measures, the amount of unpleasant particles and waste can take an unpredictable and overwhelming turn when things go wrong. If performing the wall coating first, dust from flooring works may land on the fresh wall coating, causing unsightly stains. Moreover, during the installation, equipment and tools may inadvertently cause dents to the walls, causing further blemishes. Wall surfaces are more delicate and thus more prone to stains and scrapes. Some flooring planks can be extensive and tricky to handle. Hence, if planks laying comes later, it increases the likelihood of scraping fresh wall paints or textures. The wall cleaning, repairing and touching up processes cause additional hassle and costs, which you would want to avoid or minimise.

"Grungy, Architecture, Wood, House, Floor...", licensed under Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal (CC0 1.0), cropped from original to illustrate old flooring debris.

Difficulty In Protecting Walls

Due to old flooring debris, it is more tricky and costly to protect walls and recover from blemishes. After flooring completion, laying protective coverings such as drop cloths or plastic sheets horizontally on the floor is relatively straightforward. As long as the protective covers are clean and non-abrasive, it would be safe to lay them on the newly installed planks or tiles. Conversely, if you perform wall painting first and then attach protective coverings on it, you risk rubbing them against fresh varnishes and causing blemishes. Hence, it is more practical to commence flooring works first with drop cloths or plastic sheets as wall protection. Nevertheless, ensure the protective coverings extend to the wall baseboard and finishing borders to shield against paint drips or plaster mix.

Wall Baseboard and Finishing Borders

Another reason flooring takes precedence is replacing or repainting wall baseboards and base finishing borders. It is logical to think of painting walls first to allow the paint to drip onto the old baseboard and then replace it. However, after replacing baseboards and borders, the wall may have nail holes or other blemishes that require repainting or refining. When choosing to paint walls in the latter stage, you can perform all painting work in one shot. This sequence minimises the amount of mess and thus makes the renovation project more efficient.

Also, depending on the new flooring height, you may need to replace the adjacent baseboards and borders for a smooth transition between the floorboards and the wall. If you install floorboards after working on walls, there may be exposed areas of old paint. This result would mean additional paint applications and consequently risk blemishes on baseboards, borders and floorboards. Conversely, when installing floorboards first, you can protect the finishing borders with painter’s tape and shield the baseboard with drop cloths.

“Baseboard Sample”, by Jesus Rodriguez, licensed under Creative Commons 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0).  

Does Flooring Type Matter?

While each type of flooring may have different precautions and installations, it should still take precedence over wall painting. Some floorboard types like unfinished hardwood need sanding and finishing, which increases the likelihood of shavings and coatings splashing onto walls. Epoxy floors require elaborate layered coatings, touch-ups and protective sealants. Should unnoticed wall dust or paint trickle onto the floor surfaces, it will become a permanent part upon sealing. Therefore, generally, it is better to install flooring before painting walls.

NBL Express’ Premium Resilient Vinyl Flooring does not need sealing or coating for installation. We offer an efficient Uniclic locking system and safety properties that you can count on in renovating or upgrading homes and premises. We welcome you to enquire with our friendly consultants to learn more.

Does Luxury Vinyl Flooring Always Mean Higher Quality?

Carpet One-Luxury Vinyl Tiles, by Tom Britt, licensed under Creative Commons 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0).

Doubts On LVF’s Higher Quality

Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVF) has merits in aesthetic variations, enhanced composition, rigid core, flexible installation and other features. These features generally account for its higher costs compared to standard vinyl flooring. Despite its higher costs, housing and commercial estate owners prefer to invest in LVF as its features bring long-term benefits with higher resale value. However, these features may not always equate to overall higher quality, as they have corresponding drawbacks. Here are key factors that cause the superior features of LVF to have a contrary effect and bring disadvantages.

Moisture and Heat Exposure

Generally, with its synthetic materials composition, vinyl repels water and resists heat. However, constant contact with water and without wiping off may lead to moisture seeping into the subfloor. Underfloor heating systems, direct sunlight contact or frequent temperature without protection will gradually cause wear on the surfaces. Even though LVF can withstand moisture and heat longer, prolonged exposure to harsh elements would cause damage.

Standard vinyl is typically in thin tiles or sheets, which are less impact resilient, and its glue-down installation can be difficult. Conversely, a sturdy glue-down leads to fewer seams between planks or tiles and closes the void between them and the subfloor. Luxury vinyl has a predominantly inter-clicking and locking mechanism that facilitates flexible installation. It also allows ideal room for effective expansion and contraction with humidity changes. This feature entails better protection against warping or buckling in areas with constant temperature fluctuation. Contrarily, the click-locking mechanism creates grooves and ridges between floor pieces and hollow space underneath them, causing the floor to float. Along with the seams between each floor piece, the hollow subfloor may accumulate moisture and lead to mould growth in high humidity environments.

Moisture Damage to Floor, by Mr.TinMD, licensed under Creative Commons NoDerivs 2.0 Generic (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Foot Traffic Impact

Another factor to consider is the level of foot traffic. High-activity and fast-paced workplaces such as mailrooms, newsrooms, healthcare areas and retail shopfronts have intensive foot traffic from occupants and visitors. Along with high human flows, moving equipment and carts with frequent usage cause a significant impact on the walking surface. Hence, a glue-down vinyl flooring is ideal for high-traffic environments as it provides extra support in keeping the flooring in place. Installing floating planks is practical in less traffic-intensive residential and commercial settings. LVF has a strengthened composition and higher durability to provide a better strength to withstand direct and heavy impact. Contrarily, its floating nature makes it vulnerable to high-activity and fast-paced environments. In addition, though floating floors have a hollow cushion on the feet, it can amplify footsteps and cause undesirable noises. Before confirming which food type is ideal, seek your flooring contractor to advise traffic and load limits and perform stress tests.

Maintenance and Replacement Feasibility

As discussed in the previous factor, high-traffic environments increase maintenance frequency and replacement likelihood of floor pieces. The floor is probably the largest surface area to clean and maintain for any setting. The constant impact from human traffic and equipment flows accumulates dirt and may cause scratches or dents. One advantage of deploying the glue-down method is the relative ease of replacing individual planks or tiles one at a time. Isolating damaged spots to prevent hazards to occupants and visitors and replacing affected pieces is uncomplicated. However, it can be messy and time-consuming due to its strong adhesive.

Click-locking LVF planks and tiles are systematic to install and straightforward to maintain and replace without gluing. However, its systematic click-locking causes the interdependence between each piece. Some LVFs may need to remove several pieces systematically before reaching the affected ones to replace. While being conscientious in installing and caring to sustain the shelf life, wear or tear is inevitable. Therefore, check with manufacturers or contractors on the installation and replacement processes.

Crystal Flooring, by Crystalflooringsydney, licensed under Creative Commons ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0)

To tackle the drawbacks of vinyl, NBL Express produces Premium Resilient Floorings (PRFs) with Uniclic plank locking, Irradiated Cross-Linked PolyEthylene (IXPE) subfloor underlayment and other enhanced resilient properties. We welcome you to explore our blog page for informative product applications. Feel free to reach us for more information.

Choosing The Best Composite Decking

What exactly is Composite decking?

Composite decking is a man-made building product made up of a mix of wood fibres, plastics and bonding agents. The resulting boards require far less maintenance than traditional wood decking while looking far more authentic than plastic alternatives. Eco composite decking also makes for a safer (no splinters!) and a more eco-friendly (uses recycled content) alternative to traditional wood-decking!

How can you choose the best composite decking for your deck?

There is a large range of composite boards on the market and it's normal to feel confused by the range of choices. To know what type of composite board is best suited for you, you should weigh the importance of a few key factors, which we have compiled for you below:

1. Texture and Grains

The texture and grain of a composite board is important for two key reasons. Firstly, the texture of the board determines the level of friction it provides. If you’re planning to build a patio near a pool that’s likely to get wet, it is best to have a more textured composite deck that increases friction, and reduces chances of slipping. If you’re not, you can get a smoother material for a more polished look without worrying about your safety. Additionally, the grain of the word is also an important aesthetic consideration, grains help to give the impression of an authentic wood deck, helping to elevate the look of your deck

Different high-quality grains and textures offered by our quality products

2. Hollow versus Solid planks

Composite boards come in solid and hollow varieties, hollow ones have chambers running through the length of the plank whilst solid boards are denser and stronger. Hollow decks tend to be less costly and help combat against high temperatures, however if you’re looking for something that will last against the wear and tear of time, solid boards will definitely be the ideal choice. Solid boards also lend your deck an exquisitely expensive feel.

Featuring our EvaLAST series (Solid Core), EasyDECK series(Hollow Core) and EcoDECK series

3. Colour

Lastly, it is important to consider the colour of your deck in relation to the colour scheme of the rest of your property, in order to ensure the mix of colours is suitable and stylish. Dark coloured boards can also really heat up under the glare of the Sun, so it’s important for you to compare not only the style but feasibility of different colours.

Comparing light and dark-coloured boards near pools

After reading through this piece, you’re likely to have a rough idea of the style and type of board you’re looking for, but to have a better understanding and truly find the right fit for your deck, a consultation with our professionals will surely do the right trick. NBL-Eco Flooring offers both quality and style for the best outdoor decking solutions in Singapore, and we’re looking forward to making the deck of your dreams come true soon!

Why Vinyl Flooring is Better Than Engineered Hardwood

Explaining why the engineered hardwood is overrated

All over home renovation TikToks and Pinterest collections, we see beautiful cabin-esque homes fitted out with mahogany or oak hardwood flooring. There is no doubt. Hardwood flooring is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a big financial investment.

Of course, procuring, installing and maintaining genuine hardwood in our humid Singaporean climate is no mean feat. This is why home renovation connoisseurs are turning to hardwood replacements that give the look of hardwood at a fraction of the costs.

Two of the most common hardwood replacements are vinyl flooring and engineered hardwood. The great hardwood debate is which of these two options are better. We like to think that engineered hardwood is overrated in today’s market. Let’s bring you through the reasons.

Vinyl flooring is long-lasting and durable

The key difference between vinyl flooring and engineered hardwood is in its composition. The layered nature of engineered hardwood, while making it durable to moisture, is unfortunately vulnerable to scratches. If you have babies or pets at home, or have heavy furniture to shift, then engineered hardwood could be easily scratched and damaged without very good care.

Unlike engineered hardwood, vinyl flooring has that resistance not only against water but also to general scratches and dents. This makes vinyl flooring extremely pet-friendly and baby-friendly. That said, vinyl flooring is not kevlar and not completely indestructible.

Vinyl flooring is generally easier to maintain

While both vinyl flooring and engineered hardwood are designed for easy maintenance, vinyl flooring still has that edge when it comes to long-term care, cleaning and maintenance. This is always an important consideration since homeowners do not want to swap out the flooring every few years.

Whether you are using a broom or vacuum cleaner, vinyl flooring is the clear winner if you are asking which is easier to clean. In contrast, you would need to apply special care when cleaning engineered hardwood as it is more easily damaged. Moreover, in the case of damage, it is easier to replace vinyl flooring one plank at a time with relatively simple procedures. This may be more complex for engineered hardwood, depending on the specifications.

Vinyl flooring is usually more cost-friendly

Finally, cost is always top of mind. If there is a winner, it will be vinyl flooring. They are generally more cost-friendly to install and maintain in the long-run, compared to engineered hardwood. Repairs and replacement are also cheaper in the case of vinyl flooring. Of course, bear in mind you are not scrimping and being stingy if you go for vinyl flooring - since the aesthetic, quality and durability can be top-notch, if you choose the right renovation contractors.

We have no biases against engineered hardwood, but in terms of durability, ease of maintenance and cost-efficiency we think vinyl flooring is deserving of some praise. If you have further questions on flooring or renovation works in general, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts!

Benefits Of Premium Resilient Flooring By NBL Express

Introduction

This article discusses the reasons to choose Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF) in terms of its configuration features and entailing benefits. It is vinyl-based resilient flooring engineered with a superior composition to achieve optimal design, durability and ergonomics. Its top-notch resilience makes it a preferred choice for commercial and residential units. NBL Express’ PRF consists of innovative layering that produces enhanced resiliency.

Superior Composition

At the base of each PRF 5.3 plank is an anti-static vinyl back with Uniclic, a patented German technology. Next, three layers of solid virgin vinyl and two sheets of vinyl fibreglass reinforce the plank. The next layer is a decorative PVC printed film that resembles natural floorings such as hardwood or marble. Following that is a crystal grade wear layer and a protective top surface of eco-friendly crystal ceramic beads.

Premium Resilient Flooring™ 5.3mm

Another version is PRF 7.5mm. At its base layer, Irradiated Cross-Linked PolyEthylene (IXPE) underlayment utilises Progressive Foam Technology (PFT) that renders effective sound absorption. The fine, cross-linked foam also smoothens subfloor (bottom-most or inherent ground) imperfections and surrounding moisture. Like PRF 5mm, PRF 7.5mm also uses the efficient and secured Uniclic system as its rigid core structure. The next four layers are a virgin vinyl layer, an embossed decor, a green UV-treated coating, and an ECO-fresh top surface.

Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF™) - 7.5mm

Upon identifying the layers, let us understand how they reinforce planks to benefit users in design, durability and ergonomics.

Design

Aesthetic Design:

In resemblance to opened or closed woodgrains, PRF exudes a country ambience. Every plank resembles a natural art piece with patterns and palettes of hickory, oak, maple and other wood species. Such nostalgic beauty of wood grains facilitates a cosy environment for the family or workplace. Marble is elegant and expressive due to its refined beauty via sophisticated underground mining. PRF has marble’s wavy or granite patterns with sparkling sheen, which exude a timeless beauty that has graced palaces for centuries.

Utility Design:

Besides aesthetic designs, resilient vinyl flooring companies practise mindful and sustainable manufacturing in flooring designs by using recycled and recyclable materials. PRF earned the Green Label Singapore accreditation, a leading environmental standard across 43 countries, and diligently practise awareness of the environment. PRF utilises Uniclic, a glueless mechanism with rotate-and-fasten or snap-and-secured interlocking to achieve an efficient and secured installation.

Durability 

Resilient Against Water, Fire, Static:

As it neutralises and repels water, PRF is popular to install in moisture-rich areas like kitchens, laundry and basements. With EN71-2 certification, the resilient flooring is a fire retardant that provides fire safety assurance to your loved ones. Anti-static vinyl back and IXPE underlayment inhibits static charges and recover quickly from imbalances. Consequently, this helps to prevent damages to appliances and electronic devices.

Anti-Scratches, Stains and Deforms:

One of the main concerns of choosing suitable floorings is the frequent impact from high foot traffic spaces that causes scratches and stains. Common areas are retail spaces of high patron flows, living rooms with bubbly kids and pets, and kitchens due to oil residues. Through its top wear layer with enhanced ceramic-beaded coating, PRF has the durability to resist scratches and stains. The composite of virgin vinyl and fibreglass renders sufficient flexural rigidity to restrict warping during thermal expansion and contraction.

Ergonomics

Low Allergens and Toxins

The IXPE underlayment and green UV eliminate dust and microorganisms like mildews and mould spores. The UV treatment prevents dirt and dust particles from accumulating. Hence, the underlayment and green UV minimise harmful bacteria and make floor cleaning easier. The top ECO coating has no formaldehyde (colourless, pungent gas) and other toxins, facilitating clean and fresh air circulation.

Sound Absorption:

With effective filtering of IXPE underlayment to minimise surrounding noise impact, PRF is conducive for bedrooms and study rooms. It is also favourable for packed places such as schools and dining establishments. People who prefer quiet interiors would benefit from the built-in sound absorption underlayment. Hence, the resilient flooring saves the hassle and money from spending on acoustic absorption devices.

Firm Yet Comfort Touch:

As the cross-linked underlayment foam neutralises subfloor imperfections, you and your loved ones can have a balanced footing. In addition, the wear layer and ceramic bead finishing provide the much needed firm friction to deter slips or falls. The grip helps prevent or minimise physical pain and emotional shock. To soften the hardness of the inherent ground, the underlay foam of PRF provides cushioning to walk on. Should there be accidents, the impact would be less intense than the stone-cold hardness of marble or stone.

Closing Thoughts

While it lacks inherent toughness and designs of natural counterparts, PRF overcomes its shortcomings with a superior composition that brings optimal durability and ergonomics. Hence, besides residences, the features and benefits entail a high application versatility in public space interiors. Recommended spaces include office areas, healthcare areas, education centres, retail fronts, dining spaces, and museum galleries with high-flowing foot traffic. Therefore, PRF is a sustainable and preferred choice to keep homeowners, families, employees and patrons healthy and happy in their environments.

To learn more about milestones, product offerings, showroom location and contact information of NBL Express, click here.

Why You Should Use Resilient Vinyl Flooring For Home Stairs

Are you searching for home stairs that are enchanting, efficient and effective? Search no further than Premium Resilient Flooring™ (PRF), a premium resilient level of vinyl flooring offered by NBL Express. Besides floorings, homeowners can use the innovative vinyl floorings for stairs. Stair surfaces in homes are high foot-traffic spaces with frequent ascending and descending movements. Hence, stairs are focal spaces and noticeable points that require stylish and sturdy materials.

Hall Interior Illustration, by pikisuperstar, licensed under Freepik.

Enchanting Designs

PRFs have enchanting PVC printed films with charming patterns and textures similar to hardwood and marble or stone designs. Depending on your desires, you can choose warmer or lighter tones. Warm colours such as reddish-brown and earthy grey enable spaces to feel cosier. Cool and lighter tones such as light beige oak and snow make home spaces brighter. Whether on its own or when matched with walls and floors, PRFs stairs provide enchanting and harmonious designs. The hardwood design has a country-inspired style with wood grain patterns to bring the beauty of nature indoors. The marble and stone designs have beautiful veins and mesmerising translucence that illustrate a classic elegance. Consequently, the enchanting designs enable stairs to complement walls and floors naturally and adapt well to the rest of the home interiors.

Premium Resilient Flooring for Stairs, by NBL Express Eco Flooring.

Efficient To Install

Vinyl planks with peel and stick or glue-down installation for stairs provide intuitive and user-friendly benefits for homeowners. Installation of vinyl planks as treads (horizontal surfaces) and risers (vertical surfaces) is relatively efficient. You can install stair treads and keep original risers intact or install both. Provided that the stair surfaces are level, the installation of vinyl planks does not need complicated tools. Nosings are edgings that overhang the front of risers and close gaps between treads and risers. Edgings accentuate stair steps and reinforce durability, but more importantly in terms of safety, increase traction to prevent slipping. Use multipurpose Max BondTM Adhesive with a caulking gun to glue vinyl nosings between treads and risers smoothly and securely.

A further efficient option is PRF, which utilises the Uniclic technology of angular rotation and snapping mechanism for quick and secured installation. Due to its superior production and installation versatility, Uniclic evolved into a leading locking innovation in the interiors industry. Moreover, with eco-friendly components and eco-efficiency production of PRF verified by Green Label Singapore, it means families enjoy home sustainability.

Effective To Use 

Walking up and down the stairs means pressing the feet down with each step. Although this may seem insignificant, it is uncomfortable on the soles in the long run when stair treads are too hard to walk on. The premium resilient vinyl is shock-absorbent and acts as a natural cushioning pad to walk on with bare feet. This feature is ideal for high foot-traffic interiors like stairs, as it minimises the noise impact of ascending and descending stairs. Regardless of material type, it is painful on the toes if we kick hard on the risers or protruding nosings. Hence, for extra comfort and non-slip grip, you can consider adding tread mats or protectors.

Conversely, due to its soft cushioning, vinyl flooring may be prone to wear and tear in the long run. However, through simple cleaning without harsh chemicals and materials, vinyl surfaces will maintain durability and brightness. With ceramic beads coating at the top layer, premium resilient vinyl is resistant against water, stains and scratches. Besides these resistances, its traction grip prevents losing of feet balance. In addition, its sheen results in a radiant and sleek appearance to match well with walls and floorings. Typically, resilient-vinyl planks can last from 10 to 25 years. Furthermore, PRF has a residential lifetime limited warranty that you can trust and gives your family peace of mind. Therefore, PRF is an ideal choice for home stairs.

Learn more at https://www.nblexpress.com/premium/ and https://www.nblexpress.com/premium-75/. Contact 625 21910 / 6465 0429, or email ecoflooring@nblexpress.com for enquiries and quotations. Operating hours: 10am to 7pm daily. Visit our grand showroom at 615 Balestier Road Singapore 329910.

Floorings That Help To Keep Your Home Cool

In the post-pandemic era, homeowners seek an airy and crisp interior climate for a better living environment. It can be a dilemma to choose between floorings that withstand hot weather or to cope with coldness. Singapore is sunny but has erratic weather throughout the year. Hence, it is wise to install floorings that help to keep your home cool but are not adversely affected by weather changes. Thermal and aesthetic properties are the key factors in determining the right flooring to align well with your cooling needs.

Natural Stone

Natural stones such as slates or granites are known for their cooling touch and refreshing appeal. Stone slabs and tiles on their own are great for conducting coolness in the summer. Natural stone has the natural regulation to facilitate energy efficiency by absorbing heat from morning and releasing gradually in the evening.[1] In addition, with polished surfaces and sealing, stone flooring becomes non-porous and thus resists moisture and humidity.[2] Natural stone has strong thermal conductivity to absorb direct sunlight and reflects heat, making home surroundings feel adequately warm. Hence, to obtain optimal coolness during the day, install light-filtering shades or heat-absorbing curtains to cool living spaces.

Metamorphic Marble

Marble is metamorphic, which is the transformation of limestone to undergo the high intensity of underground heat and pressure. Marble’s gradual recrystallisation production ensures it is denser and more durable than other flooring options, like ceramic, porcelain and wood. Marble slate is a quick thermal transmitter that absorbs and dissipates heat quickly on its surfaces. Its high density transfers heat away swiftly and radiates the retained coldness on warm bodies and soles.[3] Even when the home surroundings feel hot and humid, marble slates will remain relatively cooling. Moreover, its snow-white or light background with unique vein and grain patterns and smooth textures give a refreshing vibe. Hence, marble flooring is suitable to keep homes naturally cool, and with heating mechanisms, it can also adapt to coldness. 

Resilient Vinyl

Marble and stone floorings are very durable. However, due to their natural elements, they may need resealing every few years. Resilient vinyl flooring is a top choice of floorings that help to keep your home cool. NBL Express offers Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF) planks, a well-received version of resilient vinyl flooring. It is highly adaptable to keep the interior climate cool and refreshing and readily provide warmth and cosiness. With overlaying installation and ceramic bead finish as reinforcement, PRF is non-porous and less vulnerable to thermal expansion and contraction. Consequent to this thermal resilience during fluctuating temperatures, the floor planks or tiles resist warping or cupping. Through slick and safe designs with simple maintenance, it streamlines with surrounding interiors to facilitate a pleasant chillness. With patterns and properties built closely to stone and marble but with production and installation advancements,[4] PRF is cost-effective.

In addition, they have hygienic and waterproof properties and a lifetime residential warranty. Therefore, besides making your home cool and refreshing, you can build a safe and sustainable indoor environment. The following are a few recommended PRF choices that keep home cool and comfortable for you and your family.

NBL 80 Gray Slate (PRF 5MM Series)

Combining grainy patterns of stone with unique veins and gorgeous translucence of marble, Gray Slate provides timeless elegance and freshens the living room.

Gray Slate has stone grains and marble translucence that freshen homes.

Gray Slate gives timeless elegance and coolness in a living room.

NBL 96 Frozen Grey (PRF 7.5MM Series)

Grey vinyl floorings, particularly those with the coldness of stone and cosiness of wood, rapidly grew over the past decade[4]. Although named Frozen Grey, it has a mixture of open and closed wood grain patterns. And with its white-washed sheen, Frozen Grey keeps bedrooms and study rooms cool yet cosy.

Frozen Grey has open and closed wood grains.

Ideal in keeping bedrooms and study rooms cool yet cosy.

NBL 91 Canadian Pine (PRF 7.5 MM Series)

Moving into 2022 and beyond, the colour trend is towards lighter and desaturated palettes with cool tones to produce calmness.[4] NBL 91 Canadian Pine resonates with this trend with its creamy blonde background and a white-washed finish to calm nerves. Its long and open wood grain patterns of pale brown colour incorporate subtle rustic and warm elements. This combination works well on its own to provide a pleasant chillness. Moreover, it also complements stylishly with furniture and surrounding interiors to build a cool and contemporary home. Therefore, along with the high thermal resilience of PRF, the Canadian Pine flooring is perfect for keeping homes cool yet cosy.

Canadian Pine has a creamy blonde background with pale brown grain patterns.

Canadian Pine has a white-washed finish for coolness and calming effects.

Visit our PRF 5MM and 7.5MM Series to learn more. Feel free to contact us for enquiries and quotations.

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Sources:

[1] Pros And Cons Of Stone Flooring. Singapore Flooring Pte Ltd. (3 Jul 2020). Retrieved 27 November 2021, from https://www.floorings.com.sg/news/pros-and-cons-of-stone-flooring.html.

[2] The Construction Quality Assessment System (CONQUAS). (2018). CONQUAS 21 Enhancement Series Good Industry Practices Guide Book - Natural Stone Finishes. [Ebook] (pp. 2 - 8). Retrieved 27 November 2021, from https://www1.bca.gov.sg/docs/default-source/docs-corp-buildsg/quality/natural-stone-finishes.pdf.

[3] Zohn, R. (17 July 2017). Why Is Marble Cold?. HomeSteady | The ultimate guide for all your household needs. Retrieved 27 November 2021, from https://homesteady.com/13411484/why-is-marble-cold.

[4] Ziskin, A. (22 November 2021). 2022 Vinyl Flooring Trends: 20+ Hot Vinyl Flooring Ideas. Flooring Inc. Retrieved 27 November 2021, from https://www.flooringinc.com/blog/vinyl-flooring-trends/.