Resilient flooring has transformed dramatically over the past two centuries. What began with expensive natural rubber or cork flooring for the wealthy has evolved into an array of affordable and comfortable synthetic options.
Interestingly, we’ve come full circle, as modern hybrid vinyl flooring is now designed to resemble the natural wood it once covered closely. Vinyl has taken the lead in the resilient flooring world by offering both a natural look and easy maintenance of synthetics. However, this evolution wasn’t straightforward—vinyl took some time, and a bit of luck, to secure its place.
The Beginnings of Vinyl Flooring
The 19th century was a period of innovation in chemical engineering, with new compounds emerging faster than practical uses for them. This was the case with vinyl. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) was first synthesized in 1872 by German chemist Eugen Baumann, and refined by Friedrich Klatte in 1913. However, its rigidity left inventors struggling to find applications for it.
During this time, linoleum became the flooring material of choice, replacing the more expensive and less durable rubber tiles and cork. Vinyl, however, gained prominence in the mid-20th century due to a series of fortunate developments.
The Vinyl Boom
In 1926, Dr. Waldo Semon, while trying to create a rubber-to-metal adhesive, accidentally developed a flexible form of PVC with many practical uses, from shoe heels to golf balls. By 1933, vinyl floor tiles made their debut at the Century of Progress Exhibition in Chicago.
World War II limited the availability of materials like shellac and rubber, leading to vinyl’s rise as a more durable, flexible, and less brittle alternative to early plastics. Soon, vinyl became ubiquitous, appearing in everything from records to industrial piping—and, of course, flooring.
The Growth of Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl offered several advantages over other resilient flooring types. It was durable, flame-resistant, and could withstand heavy foot traffic without requiring waxing. By the 1960s, vinyl’s versatility made it a popular choice for both commercial and residential use. Its cost-effective production further fueled its widespread adoption, eventually surpassing linoleum in popularity.
By the end of the decade, vinyl flooring had made its way into homes, prompting designers to explore what customers wanted in their living spaces.
1970s Vinyl Flooring Experiments
Vinyl’s ability to mimic materials like stone and wood led to the exploration of different sizes and styles. Vinyl sheets became popular in commercial wet areas due to fewer seams and better waterproofing. However, these large sheets were difficult to install for residential purposes, which opened the market for vinyl planks.
At this time, stone-look vinyl tiles also gained traction. Although they were cheaper, warmer, and softer than real stone, these qualities didn’t always appeal to those who preferred natural stone.
Vinyl Plank Flooring
The most popular choice became wood-style vinyl planks, designed to mimic the appearance and feel of real wood. These long strips were easy to install, required little maintenance, and were both waterproof and fire-resistant. Unlike cork, rubber, or multi-layered flooring, vinyl could even be used in bathrooms and other moisture-prone areas due to its bacteria-resistant properties.
Hybrid Vinyl Plank Flooring
Recent advancements have introduced hybrid vinyl planks, combining vinyl’s advantages with added features. The top layer is a urethane laminate, providing extra durability and scratch resistance. Below this, a decorative film adds rich colors and realistic wood grain patterns. The vinyl core offers flexibility and comfort, while the bottom layer provides cushioning, insulation, and soundproofing—often made from cork, rubber, felt, or fiberglass.
These hybrid planks are installed as a “floating floor,” meaning they don’t require adhesives and can easily be repositioned or replaced. Each plank interlocks with the next, ensuring a snug fit without gaps.
Experience Vinyl for Yourself
From its humble beginnings, vinyl has revolutionized flooring and many other industries. Today’s hybrid vinyl flooring offers the authentic look and feel of wood, while being more comfortable and quieter to walk on. To truly appreciate it, come and experience vinyl for yourself!
At Kawana flooring, stock the biggest range of vinyl flooring planks and tiles on the Sunshine Coast. Durable and easy to clean, vinyl flooring has so many sleek and attractive options available, making it hard to go past this practical, yet stylish, flooring option. Our range includes vinyl planks and tiles, as well as Hybrid vinyl planks, and we have options to suit all price ranges, styles and tastes. Check out what we have available at each of our Warana-based locations.