Stone vinyl flooring vs Stone flooring. Which is better?

Eco Flooring PRF stone in NBL 80

Although ceramic and natural stone floors are known for their durability, their long-lasting nature can become a drawback when trends change swiftly. Unlike vinyl flooring, which offers a wide range of styles and designs, ceramic and natural floors are difficult to change to keep up with the latest trends. Additionally, ceramic flooring can be expensive, messy, and time-consuming to install and remove, and it requires significant maintenance over time. On the other hand, vinyl flooring provides easy installation and reinstallation options. With its limitless variety of looks and styles, NBL Premium Resilient Flooring offers adaptability, convenience, and straightforward maintenance.

Let's take a closer look at the advantages of vinyl flooring in comparison to natural stone flooring.

1. Durability: Stone vinyl flooring is highly durable and resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. It is designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and daily wear and tear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas such as entryways, kitchens, and hallways.

2. Cost-Effective: Stone vinyl flooring is generally more affordable than natural stone flooring options. It provides the look and feel of stone without the high price tag, making it a budget-friendly alternative for those who desire the appearance of stone flooring.

3. Easy Maintenance: Stone vinyl flooring is relatively low-maintenance compared to natural stone. It is resistant to stains, moisture, and mildew, and can be easily cleaned with regular sweeping and occasional mopping. It does not require special sealing or polishing like natural stone.

4. Comfort and Noise Reduction: Stone vinyl flooring offers better comfort underfoot compared to traditional stone flooring, as it has a cushioned or resilient layer that provides a softer feel. It also helps to reduce noise transmission, making it a quieter option.

5. Wide Range of Styles and Designs: Stone vinyl flooring comes in a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired aesthetic without the limitations of natural stone. It can mimic the appearance of various stone types, including marble, slate, and travertine.

6. Installation Ease: Stone vinyl flooring is relatively easy to install, often available in a click-and-lock or peel-and-stick format. This makes it suitable for DIY projects, saving time and money on professional installation.

7. Versatility: Stone vinyl flooring can be installed in areas where traditional stone flooring may not be suitable, such as on uneven subfloors or in spaces with underfloor heating. It offers more flexibility in terms of installation options.

8. Eco-Friendly Options: Some stone vinyl flooring products are made from recycled materials and may be considered more environmentally friendly compared to natural stone, which requires significant extraction and processing.

While stone vinyl flooring presents numerous advantages, it is crucial to take into account individual preferences, space requirements, and desired aesthetics when deciding between stone vinyl flooring and traditional stone flooring. If you want to find out more about stone vinyl flooring and which is suitable for your space, do drop us a message and we will do our best to assist you.

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.

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.

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/.

How to Make Walls Impressive With Vinyl Flooring

At the backdrop of an apartment are wall surfaces. Walls support ceilings and floors with an enclosure that give structural forms to apartments and buildings. When you are looking to give your home or workplace a revamp, consider vinyl flooring for walls. Yes, vinyl flooring is an increasingly popular option for wall coverings. It provides impressive features in terms of aesthetic and practicability. As reported in Flooring Experts, the market for vinyl floorings rose sharply and expanded its usage to wall application. The site mentioned Domotex, the world’s leading flooring trade fair, showcases manufacturers transforming luxury vinyl tiles (LVTs) for wall usages.

Aesthetic Designs

When considering interior designs for commercial establishments, such as restaurants or retail shops, take note of the look and feel of the surrounding surfaces. A wall design with a neutral look allows floor furnishings with vibrant shades and unique patterns to stand out, and vice versa. You can achieve a seamless equilibrium with matching shades and patterns in upper, lower and vertical interiors. Vinyl planks and tiles add textures to backgrounds to accentuate an elegant appeal, which draws in viewers. Choosing designs that have flowing wave textures illustrate movements and stimulate visual sensory without falling flat.

From distinctive aesthetics to calming beauty throughout the interior walls of a restaurant’s dining area, there are viable selections to cater to the establishment’s theme. For instance, whimsical patterns bring out an eccentric theme, or woody and gravel textures resonate with a countryside heart. Besides main walls, vinyl’s aesthetic designs are applicable on smaller surfaces such as the facades of bar counters.

Wood Texture, licensed under Creative Commons CC0

Practical Applications 

Vinyl planks and tiles make practical backsplashes for kitchens as they are non-porous, which eases cleaning chores. You can find suitable choices that complement the floorings and ceilings. Need wall designs that provide an expansive outlook? The herringbone pattern resembles fish bones, as illustrated in the image below. The result is a visual expansion, which is ideal for hotel lobbies. Our eyes tend to project towards the width of the “V” lines in the herringbone, which results in an optical illusion that facilitates a broader area.

“Wall Or Floor”, by George Hodan, licensed under Creative Commons CC0

Resonating accents that adapt and align to floors and ceilings provide a pleasing and streamlined appearance. They provide cosiness for the family in an apartment and a collaborative focus for retail consumers and office workers. Vinyl is waterproof, so it makes a practical option for bathroom walls. Hence, vinyl is a sought-after material for its practical applications.

Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF)

A top reviewed contractor for vinyl flooring on Homees.co, NBL Express’ PRF provides qualities of aesthetic and practicability. With NBL Express PRF, home and establishment owners can choose suitable wall designs to complement the looks of the current floorage. PRF provides high durability against scratches and knocks and resistance against moisture and stains. Hence, the task of cleaning surfaces and preventing dirt accumulation is much easier. There are also matching designs to choose from if you are looking to revamp both walls and floors.

Learn more at https://www.nblexpress.com/premium/ and https://www.nblexpress.com/premium-75. Feel free to contact us at https://www.nblexpress.com/enquiry for enquiries and quotations. 

How to Make Spaces Look Bigger With the Right Flooring

Are you having trouble furnishing home spaces to become larger visually? Have you wondered how to make spaces look bigger with the right flooring? Choosing a suitable floor is an important decision to make when making effective use of limited square feet. This blog post provides advice on using essential design elements of lines and colours to enlarge spaces visually.

Uniformed Appearance  

Installing different floorings and segregating spaces gives a dynamic look and facilitates purposes for respective areas. However, you need to keep flooring types and segregation at a minimum to prevent floors from cramping up with different lines and colours. Unaligned floorings lead to breaking floorage into smaller pockets and thus visually reduce spaces. Instead, a recommended technique is to use the same or similar type to align overall floorage and open up individual rooms. A floorage that has a uniform appearance creates a visual spaciousness throughout the living room, bedrooms, balcony and kitchen. Moreover, the cohesiveness of a uniformed flooring brings comfort to the family.

Wider Planks with Diagonal Patterns

Our eyes sense narrowness when we see thinner planks or tiles. Laying of planks or tiles width-wise will convey depth and distance throughout the entire floorage. Moreover, with fewer planks due to optimal sizes, you can save costs. Floorings with diagonal patterns can push boundaries and make a room stand out. A diagonal pattern creates an optical extension as it breaks away from the rigidness of straight lines and squares. Wider planks with diagonal patterns can make rooms look bigger. On the other hand, make sure they are not oversized. Over-sized planks and over-elaborate designs cause our eyes to move quickly from one wall to another. Consequently, the room appears smaller.

Premium Resilient Floorings

Premium Resilient Flooring (PRFs) by NBL Express have uniformed appearances and are customisable into wider planks with diagonal patterns. With minimum seams or lines between planks, the resilient vinyl flooring creates an openness that looks less confining. Usually, homeowners install ceiling and wall lamps across the living room to brighten up spaces and complement surrounding furniture. Likewise, PRFs such as 70 Diamond Oak and 96 Frozen Grey have light tones and subdued patterns that create spaciousness. With optimal lighting, these floorings increase airiness and create a bright allure that freshens up our mind as well. PRFs are light-coloured and have organic patterns, which work well in transitioning between the living room, bedrooms, workroom, playroom, balcony and kitchen. Similarly, such floorings in an atrium or reception of commercial premises can gradually transit into adjoining rooms with darker tones.

PRF such as 70 Diamond Oak has light tones and subdued patterns that create spaciousness.

 Feel free to contact us at https://www.nblexpress.com/enquiry for enquiries and quotations.

All You Need to Know About Parquet vs Vinyl Floorings

Are you considering between parquet and vinyl floorings and having a hard time choosing? Parquet and vinyl may look and feel alike, but each has different features. Both parquet and vinyl floorings have a glossy finish that gives a classy sheen. Although vinyl is slightly colder than parquet, both materials have good thermal insulation. Consequently, the insulation is conducive to our foot soles against changing climates. A closer study reveals each strength comes with a flaw and vice versa. We put together this short guide to understand parquet and vinyl characteristics and make informed comparisons.

Parquet

Parquet dates back to the 16th century in France and derived from the French term “parquetry,” which means “small compartment.”[1] Parquet flooring comprises softwoods made from coniferous trees such as pines and spruces and hardwood from deciduous trees such as maple and oak. Traditional craftsmen made these woods into lumbers and formed varied geometric shapes to lay parquet flooring. In modern days, engineered wood evolves in commercial and residential settings. Engineered wood involves installing different softwood and hardwood materials, with a hardwood material forming the top layer. Wood materials provide the cosy allure of nature at home and geometrical patterns facilitate a sense of symmetry and balance. Unlike vinyl, it is possible to sand down parquet flooring to the desired state during new installation or renovation. With proper caring, parquet flooring should last for decades[2]. However, its original sheen fades away over time. Engineered wood has natural cosiness and long service life. On the other hand, the environment affects wood materials, and thus they are relatively porous. Wood is vulnerable to water, humidity and wood-decaying pests, and thus it is expensive to install and maintain. For durable and stylish derivatives to outdoor wood decking, you may learn about Timber Composite Decking by NBL Express.

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring is newer and made its first appearance to the general public in the 1930s in the United States.[3] Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a synthetic thermoplastic or plastic polymer, is the main component. PVC has high malleability in moulding into diverse shapes and shades and thus is versatile in replicating softwood and hardwood materials. Due to its cost efficiency and wear-and-tear and flame resistance, vinyl became common in commercial and industrial settings in the 1950s. With its success on commercial and industrial fronts, residential premises gradually introduced vinyl flooring in the 1960s.[3] With its reinforced coatings, vinyl is typically less susceptible to scratches or dents as compared to parquet. Because it is generally less porous than parquet, vinyl is easier to clean stains or fix minor damages. Vinyl is ideal for floorage with low foot traffic and minimum furniture moving, and thus highly suitable for bedrooms. The major downside is its shorter service life. With careful cleaning and caring, vinyl can last 10 to 20 years.[4] Moderate damages require plank replacements, and significant cracks may need entire floor replacement. For resilient and sustainable solutions to replace or install new floorings, you can consider NBL’s Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF) 5mm and Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF) 7.5mm

Key Comparisons Summary 

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References

[1] https://www.reclaimedflooringco.com/the-history-of-french-parquet/

[2] https://www.homees.co/articles/all-about-parquet-flooring

[3] https://hillsborough.floorcoveringsinternational.com/articles/the-history-of-vinyl-flooring/

[4] https://www.homees.co/articles/everything-about-vinyl-flooring

[5] https://www.propertyguru.com.sg/property-guides/home-floor-type-singapore-18432

Cleaning and Restoring the Natural Shine of Vinyl Floorings

Vinyl floors are well-used in residential and commercial spaces due to their pleasant sheen and resistance against stains. However, these synthetic compounds undergo reactions with steam cleaners, direct sunlight and abrasive cleaning agents and consequently cause discolouration. Cleaning and restoring the natural shine of vinyl floorings require non-abrasive cleaning solutions and tools.

Homemade Solution

Are there underutilised food items such as white vinegar, baking soda and discarded citrus peels in your kitchen? Instead of throwing these items, you utilise them to make solutions at home for a quick clean-and-shine.

●    White vinegar: Its scent wards off ants and other common insects. Its acidity loosens up grease for easier cleaning and leaves a slight gloss on surfaces.[1]

●    Baking soda: Baking soda is a mild scouring agent that scrubs away stubborn grime.[2]

●    Citrus peels: Instead of going into trash bins, give citrus peels a new life. They have natural acidic properties that remove stains and leave surfaces with a temporary pleasant scent.[3]

NBL’s Concentrated Vinyl Floor Cleaner  

In our Professional Floor Care Series, we commit to producing sustainable cleaning solutions for consumers. For an extended effect on cleaning and restoring the natural shine to vinyl floorings, we recommend NBL’s Vinyl Floor Cleaner. With a thorough antibacterial formula that disinfects indoor planks and outdoor decks, you can maintain home hygiene and family health. Do you feel edgy of creepy crawlies growing in backyards and bedrooms? With concentrated citrus mint to repel household pests, it minimises unpleasant sights and stings. The solvents in the cleaner have sufficient concentration for economical dilutions for general cleaning, light cleaning and heavy-duty cleaning. You can tweak the dilution to remove accumulated dirt and grime without leaving an unpleasant residue or diminishing floorings’ gloss. With a non-rinse formula of non-soap surfactants, it is effective in cleaning and restoring the natural shine of vinyl floorings. Furthermore, due to low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which prevent harsh vaporisation, the cleaner is eco-friendly and safe for breathing.  

The outcome is an assuring comfort with appealing gloss to welcome homeowners and loved ones. Therefore, the cleaner is highly applicable in both indoor and outdoor settings of residential and commercial premises. Non-abrasive tools such as microfibre cloths and mops are effective to absorb dust, dirt and grease. Do note to avoid using highly abrasive materials such as steel scrubbers, as they may damage vinyl’s protective layer. For regular care to prevent stubborn stains from building up, you can refer to our post on maintaining and cleaning PRF.

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Sources / Further Reading

1. Goetz, Anne. Homemade Vinyl Floor Cleaner. Hunker. Retrieved 30 July 2021.

2. Leverette, Mary (8 March 2021). How to Clean Vinyl Floors. The Spruce. Retrieved 30 July 2021.

3. DeannaCat (5 August 2019). How to Make Homemade Lemon Vinegar Cleaning Spray. Homestead and Chill. Retrieved 07 August 2021.

Disclaimer: These suggested products and processes are not definitive. We would be glad to guide you and advise queries on our products’ offerings, limitations and handling precautions.

What Makes A Flooring Child-Friendly

Are you looking for child-friendly flooring for your home? NBL Express Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF) and PRF 7.5 commit to features to protect your beloved young ones. Homes are havens for children to live, learn and grow. Beyond its soft lustre and earthy appearance of wood-like finishes, PRF has the properties that protect children and the family.

Sound Insulation

Rubber additives in resilient flooring provide sound absorbance. PRF has an optimal sound-insulating underlayment, in which sound absorption reaches 20 dB (decibel). It absorbs surrounding noises better than typical resilient flooring and insulates sound waves between rooms and storeys. It strongly reduces external noise interference to enhance speech and sound transmission within a child bedroom. Also, a sudden and piercing sound can scare a child. When neighbours do repair or renovation work, the high decibel can be traumatising to the young ones. Likewise, we do not want heavy shifting from home improvements to become an annoyance to neighbours. Hence, it offers a child-friendly environment to rest comfortably or focus on study.

Material Strengths

Learning to balance is a self-experiential and gradual process. Toddlers are prone to slip when the floor is slippery or trip over objects when they explore the house. Though falling is part and parcel of life, we need to minimise the risk with a child-friendly surface. Having a slip-resistant surface with optimal friction helps toddlers gain a foothold, and thus the confidence of walking. PRF’s underlayment provides additional cushioning that is comfortable to step on and provides some protection should toddlers fall. As playful kids explore the house and home items, they may unintentionally stain or damage floor tiles. Typical resilient flooring consists of versatile vinyl material and elastic rubber additives, while PRF further strengthens wear resistance. PRF contains a coating of crystal ceramic beads, known for its long-term durability and resistance against scratch and wear. PRF’s fortification makes it fire retardant with high heat resistance.

Eco-Friendly

Caring for the environment and our loved ones go hand in hand. On its own, vinyl is harmful to the environment as it is not biodegradable. We strictly comply with our green policy and Singapore Green Label to ensure our products and processes are environmentally safe. Investing in eco-quality flooring and educating children about ecology protection contribute to a greener ecology. PRF tiles utilise the German CLIC system of glue-less lamination. With efficient use of resources to minimise toxicity, our floorings are eco-friendly.

PRF has low environmentally harmful substances and has high resistance against termite breeding and mould and bacteria growth. Hence, it is relatively safe for toddlers to crawl on the low toxic floorage. Vinyl contains phthalate, formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOC), which cause respiratory and eye irritations. Besides using lower VOC, PRF adds an eco-fresh layer for abating harmful compounds and inducing quality indoor fresh air. Specialised Green UV treatment greatly enhances PRF’s resistance against stains, bacteria and water. Consequently, as cleaning and maintenance are much easier on PRF surfaces, it is child-friendly.

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Sources:

• https://www.nblexpress.com/blog

• https://www.nblexpress.com/premium

• https://www.nblexpress.com/premium-75

• https://www.allthingsflooring.com/2018/07/quiet-matters-guide-acoustic-flooring/

• https://www.flooringdirect.co.uk/flooring-planning-guide-i141

• https://www.thespruce.com/environmental-impact-of-vinyl-flooring-1314956