Vinyl flooring: expert advice and style tips

Choose vinyl because...
One of the most affordable flooring options, top-of-the-range vinyl can also compete with real wood and tiles in looks and quality. Vinyl is durable, low maintenance and water resistant, and is ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. There's a wide range of designs, including subtle plains, fun brights, geometric patterns and real wood styles. Vinyl is perfect if you like the look of ceramic tiles but want something warmer underfoot.

Which type?
The type of vinyl you choose will depend on how much you want to spend. Prices can range from £5 a square metre to more than £80. As with everything, you get what you pay for, so if you want your floor to last, it's better to spend a bit more. With basic DIY skills, you can lay some types of vinyl floors yourself, saving the cost of installation. It comes either in sheet form or as adhesive tiles, which is an easier option to lay yourself for large areas.

New trend
Vinyls that imitate the look of natural materials, such as real wood or stone, are a key trend, especially dark slate effects that look great in contemporary kitchens. Glass tile styles can transform a bathroom into something really spectacular and are ideal if you want to make the space feel lighter and brighter. Also look out for tile design vinyl floors with grooves that can be grouted for an even more realistic look.

Choice tips from a man in the know...
Jeremy Garrish, Head of Buying at Carpetright, gives his advice on choosing a vinyl floor.

* If you decide to put vinyl into a bathroom where the floor frequently gets wet, make sure the product you choose has a slip-resistant R10 rating.

* Vinyl can be fitted on any surface as long as it's relatively flat and smooth. If the subfloor is not in a very good condition, you can either add a plywood or hardboard layer, or, if the floor is concrete, you can have a layer of screed put down to produce a smooth finish. Carpetright offers expert advice in store if you're unsure.

* How long a vinyl floor will last will depend mainly on the quality and the thickness of the wear layer. The thicker the layer, the better.