How to install sheet vinyl flooring – a complete guide

At Floors for Paws we install our sheet vinyl flooring using the full stick method. Read on to find out more!

When laying sheet vinyl, installation professionals use one of two methods, known as loose lay and full stick. As the names imply, loose lay involves applying adhesive around the edge of the room only and full stick is when the entire floor surface has adhesive applied.

How to lay sheet vinyl flooring using the loose lay method

  • Unroll the vinyl alongside the longest wall, about 25 mm away from the skirting.
  • When cutting the sheet vinyl, first use a bolster chisel to press the vinyl into the angle between the floor and skirting. This will make a crease in the vinyl which will be your guideline when cutting. Using a sharp blade, cut the vinyl at an angle for a clean finish.
  • Once the sheet vinyl has been cut to size, use a broom to smooth the vinyl down. Work from the centre of the floor out to the edge as this will remove air bubbles which will help to vinyl to stick better.
  • Once the vinyl has been smoothed down, lift eh edges away from the floor and apply adhesive around the edge of the room. Press the sheet flooring down firmly and leave to dry for 45-60 minutes.
  • If you have to join pieces if sheet vinyl, for example in larger areas, secure seams with a seam sealer and double sided adhesive tape.

How to install vinyl flooring using the full stick method

  • Prepare the subfloor for the vinyl by ensuring it is clean and level. Make sure to remove and imperfections and clear all debris. If your subfloor is level and smooth, full stick sheet vinyl flooring requires no underlay but if you’d like to find out more, see our vinyl floor preparation blog posts.
  • Unroll the vinyl, as above, along the longest wall. Make the vinyl lie flat by cutting triangular notches at every internal corner, with scissors.
  • When applying the glue, fold half of the vinyl back and apply adhesive to the floor. Replace the vinyl, pressing it down firmly. Repeat the process for the other half of the vinyl.
  • Wipe off any adhesive that got on top of the floor with a cleaner.

What about the seaming?

Where two lengths of vinyl need to be joined, seams can be heat welded or chemical welded. Chemical welding involves a chemical liquid being applied between the seams. This creates a reaction that fuses the two pieces together. If too little sealer is used, a weak weld will result and if too much is used, the surface area may become flooded.

By contrast, hot joint welding involves the application of heat to fuse the seams, at least 24 hours post-installation so the heat does not affect the adhesive used. Involving a similar technique to soldering, heat welded seams are recommended wherever a waterproof or sterile environment is needed, for example in healthcare settings such as veterinary practices.

Commercial sheet vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, we supply the Pawsafe Commercial range of sheet flooring, endorsed by Canine Arthritis Management. We always recommend that our flooring is installed by professional tradespeople that we know and trust and whose work we are sure of, all of whom use the full stick method with hot welded seams. To see our full range of commercial flooring and to order up to three free samples, click here. For any other questions, contact the team at info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218.

What floor is most scratch-resistant for dogs?

two dogs on flooring

What Floor Is Most Scratch Resistant for Dogs?

As dog owners ourselves we know it is important to find a flooring that can withstand the daily wear and tear of life with dogs. Zoomies, playing, digging and occasional accidents, your floors can take a beating. To maintain both the beauty and functionality of your home, it’s crucial to invest in scratch-resistant flooring. When it comes to durability and pet-friendliness, luxury vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws is the dog owner’s best choice.

 

Why Scratch Resistance Matters for dog owners

Dog claws can quickly damage soft or lower-quality flooring, leading to unsightly scratches and marks. These imperfections not only affect the appearance of your floors but can also trap dirt, making cleaning more challenging. Ensuring your floor is scratch-resistant is the key to maintaining their longevity and keeping your home looking good for longer.

 

Luxury Vinyl Flooring: The Best Option

Luxury vinyl flooring has become hugely popular among dog owners due to its exceptional durability and maintenance. The luxury vinyl range from Floors for Paws is specifically designed with dogs in mind and offers some of the best scratch resistance available across the whole flooring market. Here’s why:

 

  1. High-Performance Wear Layer. Floors for Paws luxury vinyl planks are coated with a state-of-the-art wear layer that is exceptionally resistant to scratches and scuffs from claws. This means that even the most active dogs won’t leave lasting marks on your floors.

 

  1. Thick and Resilient Construction. The PU top layer is thicker and more resilient than standard domestic vinyl flooring, providing extra protection against dog claws.

 

  1. Ease of Maintenance. Beyond just resisting scratches, these floors are incredibly easy to maintain. Pet hair, dander, and spills can be quickly wiped away, keeping your home hygienic and fresh.

 

  1. Aesthetic Variety. The luxury vinyl range offers a wide variety of designs, from authentic wood looks to modern tile effects, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on style to achieve the durability your pets require.

 

  1. 30-Year Guarantee. One of the unique features of Floors for Paws luxury vinyl flooring is the 30-year product guarantee against dog claws. This guarantee provides peace of mind, ensuring that your investment is protected for the long term. You can trust that your floors will remain scratch-free from claw marks and remain beautiful for decades, whether your dog is as small as a mouse or as big as a horse.

 

Comparison with Other Flooring Options

While options like hardwood, laminate, and tile are often considered, they often don’t offer the same level of scratch resistance as luxury vinyl. Hardwood can easily get gouged by dog claws, laminate is tough but may chip, and tiles can crack under pressure. In contrast, luxury vinyl from Floors for Paws offers superior scratch resistance along with the added benefit of a long-term guarantee, making it the best choice for dog-friendly homes.

 

Conclusion

For dog owners, scratch-resistant flooring is a must to keep your home looking pristine while providing clean and comfortable environment for your pets. Luxury vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws not only meets these needs but exceeds them, offering unparalleled durability, ease of maintenance, and a 30-year guarantee against dog claws. It’s an investment in your home’s future that you can feel confident in.

 

Non-slip flooring for dogs

Why do dogs needs non-slip flooring? And what are the risks for them of not having it? Here, we look at non slip flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws.

Why do dogs need non-slip flooring?

  • Smooth floors that are hard and slippery can greatly hinder certain canine conditions. A major condition and a big concern for larger breeds is hip dysplasia, where hip joints don’t fit together as they should. While this is often genetic, research shows the significant part that environmental factors play in controlling the effects of the condition. Slips on smooth floors can greatly exacerbate the condition as dogs have no traction, and can lead to dislocation.
  • Young pups that are growing and developing their muscles need to feel stable under-paw while navigating the world. Their spatial awareness is yet to develop and they need to learn to negotiate obstacle in the home that could prevent them from moving around easily. While doing this, they need a flooring that will maintain their stability that will reduce the risks to them of slopping and colliding with anything that could inflict injury.
  • Older dogs often develop canine arthritis and, as with humans, absolutely need to maintain their joint stability. Traction is important in providing arthritic elderly dogs with stability. When they are stable and the risk of slipping is reduced, older dogs will move more confidently.

What non-slip flooring offers dogs

Having looked at why dogs need non-slop flooring, let’s now look at how it helps them.

  • Non-slip flooring gives dogs the confidence to move freely. Their gait will become more natural when they do not have to alter their walking style just to remain upright which will reduce any anxiety they feel when moving around.
  • Stability through traction helps your dog to maintain their balance. This is important for dogs at any age, regardless of how healthy they are.
  • Non-slip flooring protects joints by relieving the pressure on them and minimising strains and injuries.

So in a nutshell, flooring such as hardwood, ceramic tiles and laminate pose a serious risk to your dogs, and a risk that could lead to substantial vet bills over the years. At Floors for Paws, our flooring saves you money and are both pet-friendly and pet owner-friendly.

Non-slip flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

Both our Pawsafe Domestic range and our Pawsafe Commercial range have a market-leading slip rating and both are endorsed by Canine Arthritis Management. CAM’s mission it is to educate dog owners about the risks to pets from slippery floors and we are proud to be ambassadors for them. Additionally, we have also been the first choice for many leading veterinary practices, including Fauna Vets who operate a fear-free veterinary practice.

If you are looking for a flooring company that places your dog’s needs equally with yours, and that offers a sustainable choice (our floors are free from chemicals and have an ultra-low VOC count), then give us a call today to see how we can help. Call the team on 01522 300218 or drop us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com and let’s chat!

Scratch-resistant flooring for pet friendly homes

scratch resistant flooring

Scratch-resistant flooring for Pets: The Ultimate Solution for Pet-Friendly Homes

As pet owners, we know the challenges that come with maintaining a clean and stylish home. Pets, especially dogs, bring so much joy, but they can also be hard on your floors. From muddy paw prints and dog wee accidents, those excited runs around the house and even them trying to dig to Australia, your flooring takes a beating. This is where scratch-resistant flooring for pets comes into play. You need a practical solution that ensures your home stays beautiful, even with pets in full play mode. At Floors for Paws, we’ve designed our flooring specifically with pets in mind, giving you the perfect blend of style and durability.

 

Why scratch-resistant flooring is Crucial for Pet Owners

It’s no secret that pets, particularly dogs, can cause significant wear and tear on your floors. Traditional flooring options often can’t withstand the daily impacts of pet claws, leading to unsightly scratches and damage. This is why choosing durable flooring for homes with pets is essential. Our luxury vinyl flooring is engineered with a 0.6 mm wear layer, providing an extra level of protection that resists scratches from dog claws and keeps your floors looking new, no matter how much your pets play.

But why does scratch resistance matter so much? For pet owners, it’s about more than just aesthetics. Scratches can compromise the integrity of your flooring, leading to further damage over time. With our pet-friendly scratch-resistant flooring, you won’t have to worry about your dog’s claws leaving marks every time they dash across the room. This flooring is designed to handle the day-to-day activities of your pets, ensuring long-lasting beauty and functionality.

 

Our 30-Year Guarantee: Confidence in Every Step

Investing in new flooring is a big decision, especially when you have pets. You need to know that your floors can stand up to the test of time. That’s why at Floors for Paws, we offer a 30-year guarantee against dog claws. We believe in the quality and durability of our products, and this guarantee is our promise that your floors will remain in top condition for decades. This level of confidence is rare in the flooring industry, but we’re committed to providing pet owners with flooring that meets their needs and the needs of your pets.

Imagine the peace of mind you’ll have knowing that your investment is protected for 30 years. No more stressing about scratches or damage from your pets. With Floors for Paws, you can have beautiful, scratch-resistant flooring that’s designed to last.

 

The Benefits of Luxury Vinyl Flooring for Pet Owners

When it comes to pet-friendly flooring, luxury vinyl is an exceptional choice. Not only is it scratch-resistant, but it’s also waterproof; a critical feature for any pet owner. Accidents happen, and when they do, you need flooring that can handle spills and messes without warping or staining. Our luxury vinyl flooring offers the perfect solution. It’s easy to clean, low-maintenance, and incredibly durable, making it ideal for homes with pets.

But durability and practicality don’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Our luxury vinyl flooring comes in a variety of designs and finishes, allowing you to create the look you want for your home. Whether you prefer the classic warmth of wood or the sleek, modern look of stone, there’s a style that suits your taste and complements your home’s aesthetics. Knowing your floors are both stylish and scratch-resistant gives you the best of both worlds.

 

Comparing Luxury Vinyl to Other Flooring Options

When considering flooring for homes with pets, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of different materials. Hardwood floors, while beautiful, can be easily scratched and damaged by pet claws. Carpet may seem like a cozy option, but it can be challenging to keep clean, especially with shedding and the potential for accidents. Laminate flooring is a more affordable choice, but it doesn’t always hold up well to moisture or heavy wear.

In contrast, luxury vinyl offers the perfect balance of affordability, durability, and style. It’s specifically designed to withstand the demands of a pet-friendly home, making it the ideal choice for pet owners who want long-lasting, beautiful floors without the hassle of constant maintenance. And with our pet-friendly luxury vinyl flooring, you can enjoy a floor that not only looks great but also performs exceptionally well under the demands of daily life with pets.

 

Tips for Maintaining Your Pet-Friendly Floors

Even with scratch-resistant flooring, there are steps you can take to keep your floors looking their best. Regularly trimming your pet’s nails can minimize the risk of scratches. Placing mats at entryways can help reduce dirt and debris tracked in from outside. And using rugs in high-traffic areas can provide an extra layer of protection for your floors.

Cleaning is also a breeze with luxury vinyl. Simply sweep or vacuum regularly to remove pet hair and dirt, and use a damp mop or hard surface cleaner for deeper cleaning when necessary. Our luxury vinyl flooring is designed to be low-maintenance, so you can spend less time worrying about your floors and more time enjoying your home with your pets.

 

Why Choose Floors for Paws?

At Floors for Paws, we understand that your home is more than just a place to live—it’s a space where you and your pets create memories. That’s why we’ve designed flooring that meets the unique needs of pet owners. Our scratch -resistant flooring for pets is not only durable and stylish but also backed by a 30-year guarantee against dog claws. We’re here to help you create a home that’s both beautiful and practical, so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying life with your pets.

So, if you’re looking for flooring that can keep up with your pets and still look great, Floors for Paws has the perfect solution. With our pet-friendly luxury vinyl flooring, you can have floors that are as resilient as they are gorgeous, providing a foundation for your home that will last for years to come.

Dog-friendly flooring: What to look for

dog friendly flooring

Dog-Friendly Flooring: What to Look For

Choosing the right dog-friendly flooring for a home involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure both longevity, durability and safety. Here’s what you need to look for when selecting pet-friendly flooring, with a focus on the standout features of Floors for Paws.

Slip Resistance (Vet Endorsed)

The safety of your dogs should be the top priority when choosing dog-friendly flooring. Dogs, ALL, but especially older ones, can have difficulty maintaining balance on smooth or slippery surfaces, which increases the risk of falls and injuries. Floors for Paws products are designed with a high slip rating, providing superior traction compared to other flooring options on the market. This slip resistance is so effective that The PawSafe ranges have been endorsed by veterinarians, who recommend it for households with pets. This endorsement highlights the importance of slip-resistant flooring in preventing accidents and ensuring that your pets can move around safely and comfortably. 

Durability and Scratch Resistance

Dog owners know all too well how quickly claws can damage most floors. Floors for Paws offers highly durable options that are designed to withstand the daily wear and tear caused by dogs. The ranges available are not only scratch-resistant but guaranteed against scratches from dog claws, ensuring your floors maintain their appearance over time, even with active dogs.

Ease of Cleaning

Accidents happen and are part of life with dogs. That’s why it’s crucial to choose flooring that’s easy to clean. Floors for Paws offers waterproof and stain-resistant flooring, making it simple to keep your floors looking clean and fresh, even after the messiest of situations. This ease of maintenance is essential for keeping your home both beautiful and hygienic for a lifetime.

Comfort Underfoot

While durability and safety are vital, it’s also important to consider comfort. PawSafe domestic provides a cushioned underfoot feel, ensuring that your dogs are comfortable whether they’re walking, running, or resting on the floor. This balance between comfort and practicality makes Floors for Paws an THE choice for dog-friendly flooring.

Aesthetic Appeal

Finally, just because a floor is functional and safe for your dog doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish. Floors for Paws offers a variety of wood-effect and stone-effect finishes that not only meet the practical needs of pet ownership but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. With a range of colours and textures available, you can find a style that complements your décor while providing a safe and durable surface for your dogs.

Conclusion

When selecting dog-friendly flooring, it’s crucial to prioritize safety, durability, ease of cleaning, and comfort. Floors for Paws excels in all these areas, offering products specifically designed to meet the needs of dog owners. With a high slip rating endorsed by veterinarians and a commitment to quality and style, Floors for Paws is an outstanding choice for creating a safe, comfortable, and beautiful dog-friendly flooring.

Vinyl floor aftercare

Our complete guide to vinyl floor aftercare will keep your floors in tip top condition.

At Floors for Paws, our best flooring for dogs is supplied as pet-friendly vinyl plank flooring, LVT, or commercial vinyl sheet flooring. While all our flooring options are low maintenance, they will need the correct aftercare to ensure you get the maximum lifespan from them and they remain in the best possible condition. Here’s how!

What to do after installing vinyl flooring

  • After installation, glue down flooring needs time for the glue to set before furniture is moved back on it. This process is called ‘curing’ and if not given sufficient time, planks and tiles could shift.
  • While the adhesive sets, avoid washing the vinyl (for at least 5 days).
  • Do not replace furniture in the area for 48-72 hours and if possible, avoid walking on it too. If you do need to walk in the room, avoid the seams. If heavy objects are placed on the vinyl before the adhesive has cured, it will leave permanent compression marks.
  • Open windows to ventilate the room and help any odours to dissipate.

Protecting vinyl floors from damage from furniture

  • Heavy pieces of furniture can cause dents and scratches to vinyl flooring so use felt or cotton furniture pads for legs (rubber could mark or stain the vinyl). These are attached to the bottom of the legs and will spread the weight, preventing dents, scratches and scuffs.
  • If you rearrange your furniture on a regular basis, use furniture glides, small discs that attach to the bottom of furniture legs. They protect vinyl floors in the same way as furniture pads but also make it easier to move the furniture.

How to care for vinyl flooring

All vinyl flooring benefits from ongoing maintenance. This should take the form of regular sweeping or vacuuming, and mopping for heavier dirt. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar as this could scratch the vinyl. Establishing a consistent care and cleaning pattern, will extend the life of your vinyl, as dirt or spillages that are left to sit on the vinyl could penetrate the joins and degrade the vinyl.

What to avoid when caring for vinyl floors

  • Avoid abrasive cleaning products that could scratch the floor’s surface.
  • Do not use a steam cleaner as this will loosen the adhesive over time. We recommend the Karcher hard floor cleaner.
  • High heels can leave indentations in the vinyl, so always wear indoor shoes with smooth soles on your floors.
  • Keep floors dry at all times – when mopping, dry thoroughly when you have finished, as excessive water could have an adverse effect on the adhesive if left unchecked.

How to clean vinyl floors

Even with regular maintenance, your vinyl flooring will need the occasional deep clean. Seamless floors like our Pawsafe Commercial range which is supplied on the roll, is tough enough to cope with regular deep cleaning whereas the Pawsafe Domestic range and our luxury vinyl range should only be deep cleaned when stubborn marks appear that cannot be removed with routine mopping. For more detailed help and advice for vinyl floor cleaning, our vinyl floor cleaning blog has lots of articles to help.

If you have any questions about cleaning our pet friendly vinyl floors, contact us by email at info@floorsforpaws.com or give the team a call on 01522 300218.