Article VCT: Durable and Cost-Effective for Commercial Spaces

What is VCT?

Vinyl composite tile uses vinyl as its base but is predominantly limestone with 85%. That concentration substantially increases the product’s durability while delivering greater resilience than standard vinyl tiles.

In addition, VCT is inherently durable, giving it better resistance to impact damage than materials like ceramic or concrete tiles.

The single-layer tiles are typically 12" x 12" and available in various thicknesses, though 1/8" thick is reasonably standard.

VCT Applications

The flooring is typically used in high-traffic commercial settings such as hospitals, retailers, supermarkets, and education, where durable flooring is at a premium. It's efficient in lobbies, warehouses, stock rooms, and other areas subject to constant traffic.

VCT is color-fast throughout to withstand the wear and tear of these spaces. It also easily retains its original luster with routine maintenance or occasional buffing.

In addition to its durability, vinyl composite tile delivers exceptional looks and is available in numerous colors and patterns.

VCT is perfect for budget-conscious building owners looking to spruce up their facility without breaking the bank.

Vinyl Composite Tile Has Incredible Resilience

We already mentioned one of its chief benefits – durability. For that reason, vinyl composite tile handles even the highest foot traffic. It can also withstand spills and the general wear and tear associated with commercial spaces.

Even when damaged, individual tiles can be easily replaced or repaired, so you won’t have to worry about replacing your entire floor in an accident. As a result, with proper care and maintenance, you can expect VCT to last for a long time.

“Schools, hospitals, and mass retail settings all require flooring that can withstand a lot of use and abuse,” says Yon Hinkle, Vice President of Resilient Products for AHF™ Products. Dirt and residue from shoes, heavy rolling loads, things being dropped and broken, spills, and impacts of all sorts all combine under the pressure of constant traffic to scuff up the floor, no matter what it’s made of.

“If someone jams their chair into VCT and gouges it, it can be buffed up and polished to look like it never happened.”

Benefits of VCT

But VCT’s pluses don’t stop with durability because there’s much more to like about this option for commercial flooring.

• Cost: VCT is one of the least expensive commercial flooring options, especially compared to hardwood, ceramic tile, and stone. Indeed, it’s even more cost-effective than other vinyl materials like popular LVT. For example, VCT costs as little as $2 per square foot installed, whereas LVT can run double that cost.

• Aesthetics: Commercial flooring doesn’t have to be boring, and VCT certainly isn’t. Although it started with mundane design options, vinyl composite tile has come a long way. Now, you can create shapes and patterns using a broad color palette.

  For example, companies like AHF Products and its Armstrong Flooring™ brand have developed unique designs using VCT.

• Eco-Friendly: The flooring uses natural elements like limestone in its construction. Less than 1% of waste is generated by its production (Source: NIST). It also imparts a low carbon footprint, especially compared to other flooring options like carpet.

Installation of VCT Flooring

Another benefit of VCT flooring is its installation—it’s pretty straightforward. That said, paying more attention to the subflooring than other tile types is essential.

When installing VCT, subflooring must be precise and free of bumps, uneven surfaces, and debris. Otherwise, those imperfections will cause the tiles to become brittle over time. This consideration can add to installation costs, making them more expensive than LVT flooring.

Once the subfloor is prepped, the tiles are laid and secured with adhesive. Typically, a 100-pound roller connects the tiles for proper adhesion. In addition, VCT has tight dimensional tolerances, allowing installation with hairline joints that help reduce dirt and grime buildup.

Unlike LVT flooring, VCT typically doesn’t include a topcoat. Unfortunately, that means the topcoat must be addressed after installation, which can add cost and time. However, Armstrong Flooring consists of an exclusive Fast Start Factory Finish with its flooring to avoid issues with top coating.

Maintenance and Care of VCT

Like most vinyl flooring options, VCT offers easy maintenance. Regular sweeping and mopping keep them looking new. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to avoid scratching the floor’s surface.

Avoid using abrasive or harsh chemicals that can damage the tiles. Usually, mild detergent and water remove stains and spills. However, you can get a specialized VCT floor cleaner.

Although daily maintenance is reasonably straightforward, VCT has drawbacks for many.

VCT is permeable due to how it’s made. That differs from LVT, for example, which is far less porous. In addition, VCT flooring requires regular polishing, unlike other vinyl products like LVT or sheet vinyl. You’ll incur more maintenance costs owing to that requirement.

Armstrong Flooring™ is a Leader in Commercial Flooring

Armstrong Flooring has the answer if you’re looking for commercial flooring solutions. We have stylish VCT, LVT, sheet vinyl, static control, and slip-retardant flooring.

You can use our DesignVisualizer to help select the perfect flooring for your commercial space. Upload a photo of your area, access our extensive flooring portfolio, and find the best floor.

You can also order flooring samples to see them up close and personal.