Looking for beautiful, durable, and budget-friendly flooring? Armstrong vinyl flooring might be the perfect fit. This guide covers everything you need to know, from the different types of Armstrong vinyl to its pros, cons, and where to buy it. Let’s find the ideal floor for your home!
Choosing Your Vinyl: LVT vs. Sheet
Armstrong offers two primary types of vinyl flooring: Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and sheet vinyl. LVT comes in planks or tiles, realistically mimicking hardwood or stone. It’s a stylish choice for a high-end look. Sheet vinyl, conversely, is rolled out for a smooth, continuous surface. Its seamless design makes it ideal for spill-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Your choice depends on your priorities. LVT offers style and durability, while sheet vinyl provides waterproof, easy-to-clean practicality.
Durability and the Diamond 10 Advantage
Armstrong vinyl is known for its durability. Many sheet vinyl products feature Diamond 10 Technology, a protective layer against scratches, scuffs, and spills, helping your floor stay newer longer. LVT, while not featuring Diamond 10, is also engineered for everyday wear and tear.
A World of Style Options
Armstrong offers a wide array of colors, patterns, and textures in vinyl flooring. Whether you prefer rustic wood grains or sleek marble, there’s likely an Armstrong vinyl to match your vision. Some LVT options are so realistic, they’re easily mistaken for the real thing.
Easy Installation and Care
Installing Armstrong vinyl, particularly sheet vinyl, can be relatively simple. While professional installation ensures a flawless finish, DIY enthusiasts can often handle the job following the manufacturer’s instructions. Maintenance is a breeze, typically requiring only regular sweeping and occasional mopping.
Value and Affordability
Armstrong vinyl flooring balances affordability and quality. It’s generally less expensive than hardwood or natural stone, offering similar aesthetics and excellent durability. Many Armstrong products are backed by a 25-year warranty, protecting your investment.
Finding Your Armstrong Floor
Armstrong vinyl is available at major home improvement retailers like Lowe’s and Home Depot. For a wider selection, consider local flooring stores or online retailers. Always compare prices to get the best deal. You can find helpful installation resources, like the “Armstrong Sheet Vinyl Flooring Installation and Maintenance Guidelines” video, on their website.
Pros and Cons of Armstrong Vinyl Flooring
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable and long-lasting | Seams may be visible with sheet vinyl |
| Affordable compared to other options | May not be as environmentally friendly as some alternatives |
| Wide variety of styles and colors | High-end LVT can be expensive |
| Easy to install and maintain | Proper subfloor preparation is crucial |
| Water-resistant options available | Some designs may not perfectly replicate natural materials |
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The Evolution of Armstrong Flooring
The Armstrong flooring landscape has shifted significantly. The original Armstrong Flooring company declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2022, facing a substantial debt of $317.8 million and rising material costs. AHF Products then acquired key assets, including the Armstrong brand and some US manufacturing plants, but discontinued many popular product lines. This has made finding certain Armstrong products challenging. However, LVT and LVP, some of their most popular offerings, remain available. This situation highlights the economic pressures facing manufacturers and the evolving nature of the flooring industry.
Finding the Most Reliable Vinyl Flooring
Reliability in vinyl flooring combines several key factors: durability, waterproofness, longevity, and stability. Armstrong (now under AHF Products) and Lifeproof are often cited as top contenders. Armstrong’s Rigid Core lines (Empower and Luxe Plank) are engineered for durability. Their Diamond 10 Technology fortifies sheet vinyl, especially in moisture-prone areas, while many products boast a 25-year warranty. Lifeproof, particularly their luxury vinyl plank, offers complete waterproofness and exceptional resistance to damage, making it a strong choice for high-traffic areas.
When choosing between vinyl plank and sheet, consider their strengths. Plank effectively mimics hardwood or tile in high-traffic zones, while sheet provides superior water resistance and a seamless appearance, perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. Lifeproof excels in plank form, while Armstrong leverages Diamond 10 Technology to enhance sheet vinyl. While initial cost is important, factor in long-term expenses. A more durable floor, though potentially pricier upfront, can save money over time by minimizing repairs and replacements. Proper installation and regular maintenance are essential for maximizing the lifespan of any vinyl flooring.
| Feature | Vinyl Plank | Vinyl Sheet |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Mimics hardwood or tile | Smooth, seamless |
| Durability | Excellent, especially with enhanced wear layers | Excellent, especially with Diamond 10 Technology |
| Water Resistance | Good, especially with waterproof options | Excellent |
| Ideal for | High-traffic areas | Moisture-prone areas |
| Cost | Moderate to High | Moderate |
Ongoing research may lead to even more durable and sustainable flooring options in the future.
Is Armstrong Flooring Still Available?
While the original Armstrong Flooring company is defunct, AHF Products now produces some Armstrong-branded vinyl flooring, primarily LVT and LVP. These are readily available through AHF Products’ retailers, big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s, and online marketplaces. Discontinued Armstrong products are becoming increasingly scarce, potentially found in small, independent stores or online marketplaces like eBay. If you can’t locate a specific discontinued product, explore alternative brands offering similar features, considering durability, water resistance, maintenance, style, and budget.
| Feature | Armstrong (Discontinued Products) | Armstrong (AHF Products – LVT & LVP) | Alternative Flooring Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Very Limited, dwindling | Readily available | Widely available |
| Cost | Potentially higher (scarcity) | Market competitive | Varies widely |
| Selection | Limited to remaining stock | Focused on LVT & LVP | Broad range |
| Where to Find | Small stores, online marketplaces | Major retailers, online | Major retailers, specialty stores |
While the full Armstrong product line may be gone, numerous other flooring options exist. Don’t hesitate to explore and discover the perfect floor for your needs.
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