Resilient vinyl flooring - both sheet and tile - has become a valued design tool for many interior designers and architects, particularly those designing for heavy-traffic locations - such as a grocery store - or for rooms that must be kept clean - such as a hospital operating room.

Vinyl flooring is also called "resilient" flooring because it characteristically "bounces back" from the weight of objects that compress its surface.  Vinyl floors are available in either tile or sheet form for both commercial and residential use.   New technologies in recent years have improved vinyl's performance - especially in the areas of durability against rips, tears and gouges. Resilient floors are durable, easier to maintain, and more moisture-resistant than many alternative materials. Vinyl is preferred for use in residential kitchens and bathrooms, as well as in healthcare facilities, and commercial and retail establishments.  In general, there are two types of vinyl flooring: sheet flooring and tile. In addition, there are two basic categories of vinyl tile - solid vinyl and vinyl composition.

Vinyl sheet flooring and tile are available in a myriad styles and colors. Vinyl tile is available in shapes that can be custom cut and laid out in patterns using different colors or finishes. Tiles can be arranged, for example, to depict a corporate logo or to guide traffic in a hospital or retail setting. Virtually any look can be obtained to suit any decor, including classic looks that simulate wood and ceramic. Custom-made designs are easily created using sheet vinyl flooring.

Vinyl flooring reduces noise and provides comfort underfoot. Unlike such hard surfaces as wood, laminate, terrazzo or ceramic tile, vinyl floors have "give" and thus are referred to as "resilient" flooring.

Vinyl flooring is durable and time-tested, maintaining its beauty under heavy foot traffic and use. It is moisture and stain resistant, so spills can be easily removed. When compared with alternative materials, vinyl offers an attractive installed cost with economical maintenance over the life of the floor.

Today's vinyl floors are made to enhance the aesthetic features of an interior environment. While often mimicking the look of other hard surfaces, they are "warmer" than ceramic tile. Designers can use pattern and color to make a large room seem smaller or a small room more expansive. And since vinyl is durable, the color and original appearance will last longer with routine maintenance.