Difference Between Luxury Vinyl Planks and Regular Vinyl Planks

If you’re looking to update the flooring in your home or investment property, vinyl planks have probably caught your attention. They’re a highly durable, waterproof, cost-effective flooring option that looks great, but if you’ve never used vinyl flooring before, you’re probably wondering what the difference is between luxury vinyl planks and regular vinyl planks.

In this article, we’ll highlight the two key differences between our Ustik luxury vinyl planks and our ULay regular vinyl planks to help you decide which will be best for your project.

In-built comfort layer

The first key difference between our luxury and regular vinyl planks is that our Ustik luxury vinyl planks include an in-built comfort layer.

The comfort layer, which is constructed from recycled rubber, adds extra shock absorption to ensure the flooring provides excellent underfoot comfort, while also enhancing its acoustic and thermal performance to provide an all-around more comfortable and practical living environment.

The in-built comfort layer essentially replaces the need to install an additional flooring underlay below your planks, saving you time and effort during installation. Having said that, some home renovators may still choose to install an additional rubber underlay if they’re working with a very uneven floor surface, are very concerned about acoustic issues, or need an additional moisture barrier.

Have a read of this article which provides more information about whether you might need to use an underlay.

Peel and stick adhesive

The other key difference between our Ustik luxury planks and ULay regular planks is that the luxury version also features an innovative, specially designed adhesive backing that allows the planks to be stuck directly to the floor surface.

This makes the installation process far quicker and easier. There’s no need for any messy glues or screeds, and they can be laid directly onto most floor surfaces including timbers, tiles and concrete. Installation only involves a few basic tools and most DIY-ers can manage the job entirely on their own without having to pay for expensive trades.

Deciding which option is right for your project

Our luxury and regular vinyl planks are both available in the same great colour range, come with the same 7-year domestic warranty, are both suitable for use in any area of the home, and can be installed relatively easily by any capable DIY-er. Ultimately, the decision about which plank to use will come down to how much time you have and how much you want to spend.

In terms of time, the self-adhesive properties of our luxury planks will cut down your installation time significantly.

In terms of budget, both our regular and luxury vinyl planks are affordable flooring options, however, while our regular planks cost only $17.95 per sqm, the luxury version will cost a bit more at $59.95 per sqm. It is however important to remember that you’ll also need to factor in the additional cost of the rubber underlay (at $14.95 per sqm) if you opt for regular planks.

Take a look at our inspiration gallery to see the type of results you can achieve with Ustik or ULay, or order your free sample pack to get started.

Does vinyl plank flooring need an underlay?

You’ve done your research and you’re sold on the benefits of vinyl plank flooring, but there’s one thing you’re still not 100% clear on—does vinyl plank flooring need an underlay?

Don’t worry, you’re not the first person to ask the question, and you probably won’t be the last. That’s why we’ve pulled this blog to explain the purpose of underlay and when you might want to use it when laying vinyl plank flooring.

What is underlay used for?

The floor in most properties usually consists of:

●       Joists - the frame that forms the foundation of your floor.

●       Subfloor - a material such as floorboards, plywood or oriented strand board which create a flat surface over the top of the joists. Concrete can also form the subfloor without the need for joists.

Depending on the type of flooring, an underlay made from rubber, felt or foam may then be laid over the subfloor, before the finished floor surface is laid over the top.

The underlay is typically designed to:

●       reduce acoustics and vibration

●       provide protection against moisture

●       provide resistance to compression

●       smooth any imperfections on the subfloor

●       improve thermal insulation.

Do you need to use underlay with vinyl plank flooring?

One of the many benefits of vinyl plank flooring is that most products include an in-built comfort layer, which replaces the need for a separate underlay.

Depending on the condition of the floor you’re laying the planks on, in most cases, you should be fine to lay the vinyl plank flooring directly onto the sub floor or the existing floor surface.

This is great news from a budgetary perspective as you’ll only need to pay for the cost of the planks themselves, with the need for an underlay entirely optional. If you’re installing your new flooring yourself, it’s also one other step you won’t need to worry about.

When might you want to use underlay with vinyl flooring?

As we’ve just outlined, in most cases, you can get away without using an underlay. However, there are some circumstances when it could be a good idea to also use an underlay with your vinyl plank flooring, such as:

●       Very uneven floor surface - If the floor surface you’re laying the planks on is uneven or damaged with lots of indentations, it might be worthwhile using a levelling compound and/or underlay to create a smoother floor surface.

●       The vinyl planks don’t include an in-built comfort layer - Many products such as our self-stick vinyl planks include an in-built comfort layer which provides the same benefits as using a separate underlay. However, products like our loose lay vinyl planks that don’t include an in-built comfort layer can benefit from being laid over a rubber underlay.

●       You need a moisture barrier - The waterproof properties of vinyl planks ensure they won’t be prone to water damage, however, if you’re laying vinyl planks in a property with moisture issues (such as rising damp), underlay can be used to form a solid moisture barrier.

●       Acoustics are a major concern - Noise issues can be a real issue in some homes and apartments. Underlay can help to absorb more noise and improve the acoustic performance of the space.

Ustik self-adhesive rubber underlay

If you do decide to use an underlay when laying vinyl plank flooring, the Ustik rubber underlay is ideal because of its:

●       self-adhesive design and easy-to-remove protective film that makes installation simple, without the need for messy glues or nails

●       quality recycled rubber foam construction which provides optimal cushioning and acoustic insulation

●       dual moisture barrier design which protects against water from above and below the floor surface

●       suitability for use with most types of flooring (not just vinyl plank flooring)

●       affordability, costing only $17.95 per sqm.

Find out more about our Ustik rubber underlay

2022 Vinyl Plank Flooring Trends

Curious to know what’s set to be the hottest 2022 vinyl plank flooring trends?

Here are our top five vinyl flooring trends that we’ve tipped to be popping up in Australian homes everywhere over the next 12 months…

1.     Chevron or herringbone patterns

In 2022, we’re likely to see more and more DIY-ers departing from the standard approach of laying vinyl planks in long parallel lines stretching the length of the room, and instead opting for more detailed arrangements such as chevron or herringbone patterns.

While these intricate patterns are traditionally difficult to lay, vinyl planks are significantly easier to cut to size compared to natural timber or timber veneer planks, meaning most capable home renovators can even manage the normally complex project themselves.

2.     Darker colours

The light blonde timbers akin to the Scandinavian designs that have dominated the style stakes for much of the last decade have long been the most popular vinyl plank colour choice among home renovators. However, in 2022 we’re going to see more people opting for a slightly darker, moodier colour palette featuring plenty of walnuts, chocolates and greys.

3.     ‘Peel and stick’ vinyl planks

Vinyl planks have long been loved for how easy they are to lay—something which has meant that most homeowners can manage the entire installation process themselves, avoiding hefty labour costs entirely.

Now, ‘peel and stick’ vinyl planks are making it even easier. Installing self-stick planks is as easy as peeling the backing off the plank and sticking it to the floor surface. There’s no need for messy glues, and with most products featuring an in-built comfort layer, you can also manage the job without needing an underlay.

Anything that makes the job easier is something we’re sure to see more of in 2022!

4.     Styles that mimic natural timber

From concrete look to block colour and patterned tile designs, vinyl flooring can be found in almost any pattern and colour under the sun. However, vinyl planks that mimic natural timber sure to continue to be the most popular design option.

Timber flooring brings a sense of warmth, comfort, style and sophistication to almost any space, but many home renovators simply can’t afford the exorbitant cost of materials and labour to install natural timber or timber laminate flooring.

Vinyl timber planks allow you to create the same aesthetic for a fraction of the price—something that’s sure to see them continue to dominate in 2022.

5.     The redefined ‘wet room’

Traditionally, tiles were the only real flooring option for wet areas of the home such as the kitchen, bathroom, laundry or mud room, but vinyl plank flooring has redefined the rules around the interior styling of these spaces.

The waterproof construction of vinyl planks provide a way to incorporate the beautiful natural look of timber flooring in any area of the home, without the risk of water damage. Vinyl plank flooring can even be a good, affordable flooring option for outdoor rooms where they may be exposed to a variety of weather conditions.

For this reason, we’re sure to see vinyl plank flooring being seriously considered as a wet room flooring option in 2022 and beyond.

Considering vinyl plank flooring for your next home renovation or DIY project? Take a look at the Ustik range of self-stick luxury vinyl planks to find the perfect plank for your next flooring project.

Vinyl Flooring Cost Per Square Meter

If you’re renovating, replacing or updating tired or damaged flooring is an excellent way to instantly transform a room. However, if you’re working to a budget, many type of floor coverings are simply out of the question.

That’s why so many home renovations are turning to vinyl flooring as an affordable flooring solution that is practical, durable and looks great.

If you’re considering installing vinyl floors in your home or investment property, here’s everything you need to know to accurately estimate how much it will cost.

How Much Does Vinyl Flooring Cost Per Sqr M?

The price range of vinyl flooring is usually anywhere between $15 to $50 per square meter.

Vinyl sheets or tiles are typically the most affordable option, but they’re not for everyone. For homeowners looking for a more luxurious option, vinyl planks are the way to go. The plank design allows them to mimic the look of real timber flooring, at a fraction of the price of natural timber or timber veneer planks.

When you compare this to the cost of installing other popular flooring options, vinyl flooring is a very competitive alternative. The following table shows how much you can save by opting for vinyl floors.

Cost Comparison

Type Of Flooring	Average Cost Per Sq M. (Materials Not Including Underlay)	Average Installation Cost Per Square Metre
Vinyl	$15-$50	$0
Natural timber	$65-$155	$50-$95
Timber veneer planks	$40-$100	$25-$35
Tiles	$30-$150	$30-$120
Carpet	$20-$250	$25-45

Other Things to Consider When Calculating the Cost of Vinyl Flooring

As with any type of renovation, there are a range of factors that can affect the completed cost of the project. When calculating the cost of vinyl flooring, you’ll also need to take the following factors into account:

●       Your chosen installation method - The cost of installation often represents one of the largest portions of the total cost of replacing flooring, but the beauty of vinyl flooring is that it’s so easy to install that most homeowners can manage the entire installation themselves and never need to engage a vinyl floor installer.

●       Whether you use underlay - Some types of vinyl flooring require the use of a rubber underlay to improve comfort and acoustic performance.

●       Whether you opt for self-adhesive boards - Vinyl plank flooring prices can vary according to the type of plank you choose. DIY self-adhesive vinyl flooring typically costs more than non-adhesive budget vinyl flooring, however, they do usually come with an in-built underlay or rubber wear layer and there’s also no need for messy glues which makes installation a breeze.

●       The type and condition of the flooring you’re laying them over - If the existing floor surface is in good condition, you’ll most likely be able to lay the vinyl flooring directly on top. However, if the existing floor is carpeted or uneven, you’ll need to account for the additional cost of surface preparation, such as the cost of removing the old carpets or using a floor levelling compound to create an even surface prior to installation.

The Affordable Way to Update Your Flooring

At Ustik flooring, our range of quality vinyl flooring starts from as little as $15 per square meter, making it a very affordable way to update your flooring.

Mimicking the look of real hardwood flooring in a wide range of colour options, it looks so good that most people won’t even notice the difference!

Whether you opt for our traditional loose lay vinyl planks or you’d prefer the ease and convenience of our self-adhesive vinyl planks, it’s entirely up to you.

Check out our range of luxury vinyl planks at Ustik to get started.

Vinyl Flooring Kitchen: Is it Worth it?

Whether you’re thinking of updating the kitchen in your own home or an investment property, as the heart of the home and a place most of us to cook, relax, study and entertain, a kitchen update or renovation is often at the top of the priority list for most DIYers and home renovators. However, unlike some types of renovations, a kitchen reno can cost big bucks—but we have the solution.

The choice of flooring in your kitchen often represents one of the largest costs associated with a kitchen update or renovation, but with our luxury vinyl plank flooring, we have a simple solution that will transform your kitchen while bringing your reno in on (or even under) budget.

Is Vinyl Flooring Suitable for a Kitchen?

It’s always one of the first questions customers ask when considering installing vinyl kitchen floors, and the short answer is, yes—vinyl flooring is a perfect choice for kitchens!

Here are a few of the reasons why:

●       It’s durable - Vinyl flooring is a great durable flooring option for high-traffic locations such as the kitchen. The flooring in your kitchen is one area that gets a good workout every day, but unlike some other flooring options which are prone to scratches, cracks or stains, our vinyl floorings' unique 5-layer construction makes it extremely hard-wearing. It’s scratch-proof, dent-proof, stain-resistant, termite-resistant, fade-resistant and really easy to clean. It also comes with a 7-year domestic warranty, which is testament to its quality.

●       It’s waterproof - In a busy kitchen where spills can easily happen, you need a flooring option that you know won’t expand or warp when exposed to water. Even if you opt for laminate flooring which is listed as ‘water resistant’, the fibreboard core can still be prone to water damage if water is able to make its way in between the boards. Vinyl plank flooring on the other hand is completely waterproof, allowing you to achieve the same look as timber flooring without the risk of water damage.

●       It provides good acoustic performance - The kitchen is often located centrally within the home where the majority of the family spends time together, so it needs to work to reduce noise. While carpet tends to offer the best acoustic performance, it’s simply not suitable for a high-traffic environment like a kitchen. While other hard flooring types can stand up to the test of a busy kitchen, they often ‘bounce’ noise around and provide very little acoustic benefit. Vinyl floors on the other hand, include a noise-reducing rubber comforter which improves the acoustics of the space to create a much more pleasant environment.

●       It’s cost-effective - One of the biggest benefits of opting for a vinyl flooring kitchen is the cost. While it’s not uncommon to pay up to $100 or more per square meter for hardwood, laminate or tile flooring, vinyl floors start from as little as $15 per square metre, potentially saving you a fortune on your kitchen renovation costs.

Is It Difficult to Install Vinyl Flooring in a Kitchen?

The real beauty of vinyl flooring is the ease of installation. In fact, most home renovators can manage the entire installation process themselves, avoiding the cost of having to pay for labour entirely.

Vinyl planks can usually be laid directly on most internal surfaces like timber, tiles or concrete, and can be easily cut to suit any kitchen size or shape. Even more, our self-adhesive vinyl plank range makes it easier by forgoing the need for messy glues—just peel and stick!

Not convinced? Check out this installation video to see just how easy it is to install our vinyl plank flooring, or find out more about our wide variety of durable and cost effective luxury vinyl plank flooring.

What is Vinyl Flooring? Introducing Flooring: What Goes Underfoot?

Confused by solid hardwood flooring versus hybrid, or tile? Are you asking yourself, but what IS vinyl flooring? There are flooring types a plenty on the market today and it can be difficult to know which product best suits your needs and budget. To help you decide the type of flooring you need, we outline below the most popular options for homes. Let us introduce to you what products are on the market!

Kinds of flooring:

Tiles

A hard floor covering available in a wide range of colours, shapes, patterns and degrees of porousness. When used for flooring, typically made from ceramic or porcelain tile that is attached to the floor with grout. Natural stone tiles require sealing. Tiles are waterproof and require professional installation by a tiler or experienced DIY.

Carpet

Soft flooring made from woven fibre. High end options include wool in a woven design, while synthetic options may be tufted and made of nylon, polyester and polypropylene. Great for noise reduction, less advised for allergy suffers and in messy or wet household areas.

Hybrid Floors

Manufactured product that is available in several composite types. These include stone plastic composite (SPC) and wood plastic composite (WPC). Mimics the look of real timber, yet performs similarly to vinyl. A popular type is installed as a floating floor that clicks and locks into place. Generally more expensive than vinyl and laminate options.

Hardwood

Timber flooring is a solid wood product available in a variety of types of wood, thicknesses and finishes. It requires professional installation. The beauty of timber is also available in manufactured floor coverings that aim to replicate the look of natural wood. Real timber flooring is the most expensive floor covering due to materials and installation.

Engineered Wood

Real wood plies that are laminated together. Is often composed of manufactured wood and board that can be glued down or floated.

Laminate Flooring

Layered floor covering made of composite materials. This includes a compressed fibre core layer of fibreboard or plywood. Next is an image layer with a tile, stone or wood-look design and then a top coat layer. Often installed as planks or boards that come in varying thicknesses and wide variety of styles. Typically only water resistant and unsuitable for wet areas.

Vinyl Floors

Layered floor covering made of composite materials. This includes a PVC or other polymer base layer. Then comes a design layer with a tile, stone or wood-look design and a top coat layer. There are many types and thicknesses of vinyl flooring on the market today and most are waterproof. The main ones available include planks, vinyl tiles or sheets.

Ustik Vinyl Flooring

Intelligent, self-stick luxury vinyl plank flooring. These are thick, lush and feel like wood. Fully waterproof and suitable for wet areas. Can be applied over most surfaces and floor types as part of DIY installation. Includes an extra top layer of protective coating for added durability. The winner for ease of installation and affordability. Can be re positioned and replaced due to pressure sensitive glue and cut to size with a utility knife.

Ultimately, the type of floor that is the best will be the one that delivers you beauty and durable quality in your price range. Ustik is a popular flooring option because it is a cost-effective and durable product that is the leading luxury vinyl plank. For your next flooring project, choose Ustik.

Can you lay vinyl planks over tiles?

Old, cracked or outdated tiled floors can have an enormous impact on the comfort and aesthetics of your home, but updating them can be a big task. Retiling or replacing tile floors with floorboards is usually very labour intensive, and it may simply cost more than what the budget allows.

That’s why so many homeowners are turning to vinyl planks—not only can they be laid over the top of an existing tiled floor, but they can help you achieve the same attractive look of floorboards without the hefty price tag.

What are vinyl planks and how do they work?

Vinyl planks are a smart flooring solution that allow you to install beautiful timber-look flooring, without the hassle of having to remove the existing floor surface.

Constructed by combining vinyl with various protective and reinforcement layers for added durability, the planks are finished with a life-like scratch resistant coating that mimics the look of real timber flooring and can be installed over the top of most floor surfaces including timber, concrete and - you guessed it - tiled floors.

Typically installed with a rubber underlay for enhanced acoustic performance and superior comfort underfoot, vinyl plank flooring is also usually resistant to water damage and slip-proof, making it a highly practical flooring solution, even in wet areas.

Can you lay vinyl planks over tiles without seeing the tile joints?

A common concern for homeowners considering laying vinyl plank flooring over tile surfaces is the possibility of the joint or grout lines between the tiles on the floor below showing through.

While this can be an issue if the tile joints on your floor are quite prominent, it’s a relatively easy work around by simply applying one or two layers of a levelling compound to create a smooth surface prior to laying the underlay and planks. This will effectively make the grout lines disappear.

How do vinyl planks compare to the alternatives

The rubber properties of vinyl flooring tend to provide significantly better sound acoustics compared to the hardwood and engineered timber alternatives, while still proving to be highly durable flooring material. However, it’s the affordability of vinyl floor boards that tends to appeal most to homeowners.

Not only does vinyl plank flooring cost a fraction of the price of hardwood or engineered timber flooring while still emulating the same timber grain effect, but the ability to lay the planks over your existing tiled floor means that most DIY-ers can manage the installation themselves, saving again on labour costs.

Ustik’s innovative peel-and-stick plank design makes the installation process even easier—while traditional vinyl floor boards still require the use of an adhesive to install, Ustik planks can be applied directly to the floor or underlay without the need for messy glues, screeds or tools.

Find out more about our innovative product range or visit our online store to order a sample today!

How timber look vinyl flooring stacks up against the alternatives

Every seasoned renovator knows that your choice of flooring will not only have an enormous impact on the completed look and feel of your home, but also on your renovation budget.

While timber planks, tiles and carpet have long been the go-to product options for home renovators, timber look vinyl flooring is fast becoming a popular choice—but if you’ve never used it before, you’re probably wondering how it compares to the alternatives.

That’s why we’ve pulled together this overview of how this innovative flooring option performs compared to other flooring types...

Acoustics

The acoustic performance of a flooring option is largely determined by the degree to which sound bounces or is absorbed by the surface.

The hard surfaces of tiled and wooden floors tend to deliver the lowest acoustic performance. Carpet usually provides the best acoustic performance, however it simply isn’t suitable for use in every area of the home.

Vinyl plank flooring delivers the best of both worlds—the absorptive properties of vinyl flooring helps to reduce sound pollution, while still proving to be a suitable flooring choice for any area of the home, or even commercial spaces.

Practicality

Carpet tends to be the least practical flooring option—not only can it stain and tear easily, but it also requires regular steam cleaning to prevent dust and allergen build up.

Tiles and timber are great hard-wearing options that are easy to clean and can handle heavy foot traffic, however they do have their disadvantages. Tiles can be prone to cracks (which can be difficult to replace), while timber can be susceptible to scratches and water damage.

Vinyl plank flooring is a great family friendly alternative—it’s very easy to keep clean with regular vacuuming and mopping. It’s also a durable option—it's scratch resistant and waterproof, however it’s also a relatively simple process to replace any damaged planks if you ever needed to.

Comfort

Few flooring options can compare to the comfort of carpet, but in areas of the home where carpet isn’t suitable, luxury vinyl planks can be an excellent alternative. Not only does it provide greater cushioning compared to hard timber or tiles, but you also have the option to lay it with an underlay to add an additional layer for extra comfort underfoot.

Affordability

Cost is hugely important when choosing a flooring material, and the cost difference of each type of flooring can be significant.

While price can vary dramatically based on whether you select a standard or luxury-level product, here’s what you can generally expect to pay for each flooring option:

●       Carpet: between $20 and $250 per square metre, plus $25 to $45 per square meter for installation.

●       Tiles: between $30 and $150 per square meter, plus $30 to $120 per square metre for installation.

●       Timber: $65 to $155 per square metre, plus $25 to $35 for installation and $25 to $60 per square metre for sanding and polishing.

●       Timber look vinyl planks: $15 to $50 per square metre, $15 per square metre for underlay (optional), plus $25 to $35 for installation (if you choose to have it professionally installed).

Ustik: The Perfect Solution

A key benefit of opting for vinyl plank flooring is that most DIY-ers can manage the installation themselves, making it a very affordable alternative—and that’s where Ustik’s self-stick rubber backed vinyl plank flooring are an ideal choice. The innovative self-stick design makes installation simple, without the need for messy glues or screeds.

Find out more about how they’re installed, or take a look at our extensive range of luxury vinyl planks to see which of our affordable flooring options most appeals to you.

Best Types of Flooring: The 4 Tests To Decide | Ustik

Want to know the best type of flooring for your home? Read below to discover what to consider when choosing which type of flooring to install. We discuss the four key areas that any flooring product should be assessed against in order to decide what to put under your feet.

1. Durable flooring options

Your floors will get a workout over the life of your home. So, you need resilient flooring made of durable material that will last underfoot. Floors need quality and this is one of the most important factors to consider. 

Carpeted floor is the least durable covering overall, but carpet quality will impact upon how long until replacement is required. It can't get wet and requires professional cleaners or tools to clean. Tile flooring is very durable, however, for ease of cleaning it is a less popular option —  many consumers shy away from grout lines that collect dirt or discolour with age. 

Hardwood is durable, but can be scratched and will expand and warp if gotten wet. High gloss sealant is often applied to real wood to lessen the risk of floor and water damage, while matte finishes are not as durable.

Laminate flooring material fares very well in terms of scratch and dent resistance. However, the majority are only water resistant, not waterproof - even if the top layer is marketed as so. Laminate's fibreboard core will suffer water damage and degrade over time if water reaches through the joins, so it is not advisable in wet areas.

Vinyl and hybrids are more comfortable underfoot than laminates and are considered waterproof. However, improper installation of interlocking floating floors (hybrids and loose lay vinyl flooring) can allow water to leak underneath and cause serious damage. Interlocking floor systems are less advised for areas of the home subjected to heat or heavy objects like pianos and pool tables that can disproportionally shift the planks. 

Ustik has created a new industry standard for vinyl. We incorporate 2 waterproof layers in our adhesive layer which makes our luxury vinyl plank range fully waterproof. They are suitable flooring for kitchens and bathrooms and the kitchen. They are softer underfoot than most hybrids making them a superior choice.

2.     Cost effective

It can become pricey to lay an entire home with a new floor. Solid timber flooring is the most expensive and wood floors, including engineered wood are also costly. High-end carpet will also set you back a lot of cash.

In terms of manufactured products, hybrids tend to more expensive than vinyl or laminate flooring. Laminate and vinyl are often comparable on price depending on the variety of styles - unless you opt for a luxury range of vinyl. The hidden cost that many people forget is that the price per square foot you see online is only for the product and exclusive of installation.

If you're budget conscious or simply want to DIY, choose flooring that can be self-installed, such as laminate, vinyl or hybrid. Most manufactured floor coverings will require additional tools to DIY which can add up in price, even if you choose to hire for e.g. a jigsaw to cut the planks to size.

Ustik self stick planks can be cut with a utility knife. This offer ease of installation and is the best value for money flooring option to DIY. Who doesn't want value for money and luxury quality? 

3.     Sound and Comfort

Acoustics wise (including homes with kids or heavy steppers) carpet is used to muffle noise. Hard floor coverings rely on underlays to reduce noise. The lower a product’s the decibel or dB rating, the more efficient it is in reducing sound. Of hard floor coverings, laminate floor and wood flooring are on the noisier side. Hybrid and vinyls are your best bet when it comes to reducing noise.

Ustik underlay has been tested and rated to 19dB, one of the lowest on the market. The dB rating varies dramatically across various hybrid products so your research is essential if noise is a concern to you.

4.     Installation

Most flooring materials require a professional to install them properly. These include carpet, tiles, and natural wood floorboards as well hybrids, laminates and vinyl. However, a popular desire for homeowners today is to install flooring themselves.

However, even click lock hybrid and laminate flooring will require tools. This may include a drop saw, circular saw, mitre saw or table saw to cut planks to size to fit your floor plan. Even many vinyl planks will require a jigsaw for DIY installation. Ustik self-stick planks are the simplest on the market to install and to cut them you’ll only need a utility knife. They come pre-glued with pressure sensitive glue that stays tacky for the life of the floor. This means you can pull them up to reposition or easily replace if needed.

We hope the above information has helped you in your search for a flooring solution. If you want the type of floor that is waterproof and affordable yet delivers a luxury finish, consider Ustik. Order a sample today to see why our DIY friendly flooring choice is the leading choice for your home.

Laminate vs Vinyl - What is the difference?

It's important to know which type of floors you want to use either for your new home, or looking for an upgrade in your existing home. With so many options out there, it's easy to get confused. You want to make sure both options are worth your money, time and effort in installation. This blog post will compare laminate and vinyl flooring to help you make that decision.

Laminate vs Vinyl Flooring Comparison

First things first, what is laminate flooring and what is vinyl flooring? Laminated floorings are made from a layer of compressed paper, plastic or wood laminated to a core sheet. Vinyl floorings are also laminated, but it's laminated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or another polymer instead of paper. So what are the differences between laminate and vinyl? Here's are the basic differences when comparing laminate vs vinyl flooring:

1. Laminate is more expensive than vinyl

2. Laminate flooring tends to last longer than vinyl flooring (but not by much)

3. Laminate flooring has a higher noise level than vinyl, but the difference can be minimal when installed properly.

4. Vinyl flooring doesn't need to be sealed or floated and installs easier because of its flexibility.

5. Laminate requires nails whereas for vinyl flooring, you can just use an adhesive that covers the entire surface of the floor, which makes it much easier to install.

Why should you consider vinyl flooring?

Vinyl flooring can also be installed on top of laminate floors, so if you want your laminate to last or have a higher noise level but don't like the look of vinyl, it's an option. It's easier and cheaper to replace vinyl flooring than laminate because laminate is glued down whereas with vinyl you just pull it up and replace with a new one. Vinyl flooring is also much more cost efficient compared to laminate flooring, so if you're on a budget, laminate may not be the best option for you just because of how costly it can be per square foot.

Why you should consider laminate flooring?

Laminate flooring is much more durable and scratch resistant than vinyl, so if you have pets or children that are constantly running around the house then laminate may be your best bet. Laminate flooring also has lower installation costs because it doesn't require glue like some other types of hardwood and this means that you can install laminate on top of carpet without having to tear up the old Laminate flooring is also considered to be much more affordable than vinyl in the long run due to their durability(theoretically speaking), so if you're looking at a long term investment, laminate may be your best option to consider.

Ustik: Self Adhesive Luxury Vinyl Planks that combine the best of both worlds.

If you're still confused whether to get laminate flooring or vinyl flooring, Ustik has the solution for you. Our luxury vinyl planks are created with ease of use and durability in mind. Ustik’s special patented pressure sensitive glue stays in a tacky state for the life of the product, which means you save on installations costs and has a wear layer that makes it resistant to damage from scratches, unlike cheap vinyl planks you find in the market. This makes it the perfect option for flooring if you can't decide between laminate vs vinyl flooring. Our vinyl planks are built to last  and can be applied on most surfaces. This includes hardwood floors, timber floors, floors with a textured surface and concrete floors.

Order a sample pack here and see for yourself. With 5 different colours to choose from, there's a perfect pairing solution for any room in the house. If you’re looking for the same planks without the adhesive, check out our loose lay vinyl planks.

How To Take Care of Vinyl Plank Flooring

Vinyl plank flooring is a popular choice for homeowners.  A robust and waterproof option in residential homes, our luxury vinyl plank flooring is an easy-to-install and affordable option. It provides understated style that can be combined with other materials for visual interest.

What sets Ustik vinyl planks apart? We provide quality and hard-wearing flooring that you can DIY install yourself and walk on immediately. Our patented products are self-stick, easy to lay and offer thermal and acoustic benefits, both for our self adhesive vinyl planks and loose lay vinyl planks.

But how do you keep vinyl tiles looking as good as new? Read our frequently asked questions below in our guide to vinyl plank flooring. You’ll learn to properly care for your vinyl planks and keep them looking great for years to come.

Q: How can I keep my vinyl tiles looking clean?

A: Cleaning vinyl plank flooring does not need to be difficult! Regular cleaning will keep your floor beautiful in a few basic steps. We suggest the following cleaning options:

• For quick cleaning, remove surface dust with your broom or vacuum and damp wipe the surface with water.

• For spills, wipe with a soft cloth to remove excess water.

• If there is a stain risk, use baking soda and water for acidic stains or strong food stains.  Water and liquid soap or dish soap followed by a vinegar clean is suitable for all other spills. Repeat for stubborn stains.

When you do deep cleaning, steer clear of abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals, steel wool and the build-up of soap scum and extra soap residue. Instead, use a neutral vinyl floor cleaner or neutral cleaning products which do not contain wax as this will leave streaks. A vinegar and water solution is an excellent option – use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. A quarter cup in a bucket is good for everyday cleaning, its acetic acid will cut through grease without leaving residue. Warm water or hot water can be used in the cleaning process.

Q: How do I replace planks?

A: The ability to replace planks makes our vinyl a versatile flooring option. Perhaps your floor over time needs a few boards replaced, and that’s easy to do!

When replacing, it’s best that the indoor temperature is kept between 18-25 °C. In addition, the replacement plank(s) should be kept at this temperature for 48 hours prior to installation and 24 hours after installation.

Our luxury vinyl planks may be replaced by prying up at a corner of the plank with a utility knife. This may require some force due to the adhesion of the pressure sensitive glue. It is important to be careful not to mark adjourning planks during this process. Remove and replace with new plank.

We advise ordering some extra planks at your time of purchase to ensure the best visual compatibility of your design.

Q: How can I protect my planks?

Always remove immediate grit, sharp objects, staining agents, moisture or aggressive substances from the flooring. This is to prevent the likelihood of damage or dents in vinyl flooring.

Routine cleaning can easily be done by sweeping, vacuum cleaning or damp wiping. Floor mats and furniture should be moved from time to time to avoid permanent colour changes. Direct sunlight on your vinyl planks for long periods is not recommended. Take care with casters on vinyl floors. Furniture with rollers such as castor chairs must have soft free-turning, non-rubber wheels. Alternatively you can use office castor mats for protection. Pet owners should ensure their pets do not walk on the floor with sharp claws to prevent scratches.

Q: Does vinyl wood plank flooring need to be waxed?

A: Nope! Our planks are covered in a non-porous PU protective coating making them waterproof and resistant to fading so you don’t need to coat them in any way. Polish for vinyl is not needed for our products, making it an ideal choice and quality, affordable flooring option that is easy to maintain.

Advantages Of Vinyl Plank Flooring

The flooring option in your home matters. Are you in the market for a type of flooring that is durable, waterproof and stylish? Look no further than Ustik’s luxury vinyl plank flooring.

What makes us different to the rest? Below we share what makes our products a superior choice amongst the many types of vinyl flooring that is available today.

Your Perfect Floor

The advantages of vinyl plank flooring are many. This includes cost, durability, ease of installation and the life-like finish they deliver via a range of styles.

However, not all planks are equal. The type of vinyl flooring varies between suppliers, so it’s important to know the specs of what you’re getting. For example, some vinyl floors are only water resistant and will be damaged if exposed to excess moisture. At Ustik, our planks are waterproof. The adhesive contains two waterproof layers as is the PU protective coating on top so you don’t have to worry about water damage.

Cost

One of the biggest advantages that our vinyl planks are one of the most affordable flooring options on offer.

Compared to other flooring types such as real wood hardwood floors, vinyl floors are significantly cheaper. Our vinyl is also affordable compared to other flooring products - including other vinyls and laminate flooring.

At Ustik, we supply a range of styles but only have a luxury vinyl tile product available to suit a variety of decor options. You can install them yourself and save on cost further, making our glue down vinyl a popular option for DIY-ers. You don’t have to pay for labour!

Health

Are you one of our many conscious consumers who have health issues and seeking allergy flooring options? Our planks are an excellent choice. Dirt and dust won’t get trapped in grout lines or joins as our planks have an intelligent glue down vinyl installation design that delivers a tight fit. Ustik’s products also have an A+ the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) rating with Nil detection amongst most test areas.

Durable

Our vinyl planks require little to no maintenance. Traditional tile and wooden floors can show wear sooner and their gaps make it easier for grime, dirt and other debris to get trapped between. Cleaning these requires effort. Our vinyl planks can be cleaned by sweeping and a mop and water with vinegar or a neutral cleaning agent.

Should you need to replace a plank, this is also straightforward and done by prying up at a corner of the plank with a utility knife. Remove and replace with new plank.

Easy to lay

The ease of installation makes our adhesive vinyl planks a popular product. You don’t need screeds, screws, glues. Our luxury vinyl planks can easily be cut with a cutter or utility knife.

Unlike other vinyls, we have capitalised on technological advances in the design of our adhesive. Our adhesive glue is pressure sensitive and environmentally friendly. Unlike other vinyl adhesives, remains in a wet tacky state. Our wet glue is water-based and is unique because its tacky state means less likely to lose its stick versus other glues that hard dry.

Long-lasting and easy maintenance and affordability meets luxury finish, Ustik’s luxury vinyl planks offer many advantages. Contact us today or order a sample pack to find out more about getting our intelligent self-stick products in your home today.

Peel and Stick Floor Tiles in Australia: Top 5 Benefits

It is no secret that peel and stick floor tiles (or Self adhesive vinyl planks) have become an increasingly popular type of flooring in recent years. In Australia, peel and stick floor tiles are one of the most common types of floors used for both residential and commercial purposes. If you're unsure as to why you should be using peel and stick floor tiles, take a look below at the top 5 benefits of peel and stick floor tiles in Australia.

Easy to install

Standard vinyl planks can be hard to install. Especially if there are a lot of cuts, or you need to peel and stick the vinyl planks together. Peel and Stick vinyl planks have simplified this process by removing the tedium from installation. They peel off easily because they come in pre-cut pieces with perforations so that you can simply peel them up (like wallpaper) and lay them. If there are any curved edges like the edge of doors and walls, all you need to do is cut and snap off the extra section.

Affordable price point

Self adhesive vinyl planks tiles have an affordable price point which makes them accessible to anyone who wants a new type of flooring but has not been able to afford traditional hardwood or carpeting. The cost also makes peel and stick floor tiles a great option for those who live in rental homes or apartments.

Different colours and patterns

Self adhesive vinyl planks come in a wide variety of colours and different types of peel-and-stick designs. This means that there's always a colour for everyone, and also allows people to change up the colour of their floors easily without having to rip up the floorboards.

Easy maintenance

Peel and Stick floor tiles are easy on your pocketbook since they require very little upkeep aside from sweeping. They are also much easier to maintain and upkeep compared to traditional wooden floors which are subject to cracking , splitting and warping.

Quiet

Known for their sound-absorbing abilities, self adhesive vinyl planks can be installed in areas where there is high noise levels like an open plan office or kitchen. This makes them perfect for a variety of work environments and residential spaces alike. No more creaking and squeaking floorboards!

Durable

Peel and Stick floor tiles are durable, flexible to your movement, resistant to most spills and can be installed both in high traffic areas as well as low traffic spaces. They also come with a peel-and-stick installation that is designed for long term use so you won't have any issues when the time comes to take them up and do the installation all over again. They're also extremely suitable under Australian climates, resistant to both moisture and extreme heat and cold, making them an excellent option.

DIY Self Adhesive Vinyl Planks Made Easy

Ustik® self adhesive vinyl planks are are comfortable, durable, termite resistant and waterproof. That's why our planks come with a 7 year domestic warranty. Our vinyl plank flooring mimics the look of real timber, feels luxurious, and is significantly cheaper than real timber and quieter too. Refresh your home with quality flooring and get that new look while saving over $1000* by doing it yourself. Order a sample pack with us today!