There are various types of flooring sheets (floor sheets/flooring sheets). Each has advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the flooring sheet that suits your purpose.
In this article, we will introduce how to choose flooring sheets and how to apply them beautifully. We will also explain tips for pasting the sheets, so please use this as a reference.
What is flooring sheet (floor sheet/flooring sheet)?
Flooring sheets refer to sheets with printed designs for flooring, tiles, stones, etc.
For example, flooring sheets are useful when you want to change the color of your flooring from light to dark, or change the design from woodgrain to stone. The floor occupies a large area of the room, so simply changing the flooring material can instantly change the overall impression of the room.
This flooring sheet looks almost exactly like the real material, so much so that it's hard to tell the difference at first glance. Additionally, it is easier and more economical to create beautiful floors than using natural materials.
The flooring sheet is also suitable for DIY. It's relatively easy to handle, so even beginner DIYers can create a stylish and attractive space.
Types of flooring sheets
There are mainly two types of flooring sheets:
- cushion floor
- long sheet
Here we will introduce the characteristics and advantages and disadvantages of each.
cushion floor
Cushion floor is a flooring sheet made of soft and cushioning material. Mainly, designs such as wood grain or tile style are printed.
Advantages of cushion flooring
Advantages of cushion flooring- You can walk comfortably by reducing the burden on your feet.
- Easy to clean and water resistant
- Relatively easy to construct
Cushion floors are flooring sheets made of cushioning materials, which can reduce the strain on your legs and hips. It is also water resistant and can be easily wiped off when spilled, making it easy to clean.
Furthermore, if you choose a type that has deodorizing properties, it will absorb and decompose odors even in bathrooms and rooms where pets are present. Since it is relatively easy to install, it is also recommended for those who want to DIY their own floors.
Disadvantages of cushion flooring
Disadvantages of cushion flooring- There may be differences in quality
- If a hard object falls, it may cause injury.
Cushion floors come in a wide range of prices, and there are often differences in quality. For example, a low-priced product may not be as durable.
Also, since the cushion floor is made of soft material, it may be damaged if hard objects fall onto the floor. Handle furniture and heavy objects carefully.
long sheet
Long sheets are flooring sheets that are often made of flexible but hard materials.
Advantages of long sheets
Advantages of long sheets- Excellent durability
- Some materials have properties such as chemical resistance and antistatic properties.
- Easy to maintain
The long sheet is a highly durable flooring sheet and is suitable for areas where people walk with shoes on. Therefore, they are used in commercial facilities, offices, schools, etc. where people frequently come and go.
Furthermore, some long seats have cushioning properties, making them suitable for long periods of standing work. There are also long sheets that have properties such as chemical resistance and antistatic properties, so they can be used in a wide range of applications. It is easy to maintain and does not require frequent waxing.
Disadvantages of long sheets
Disadvantages of long sheets- very heavy
- costly
Long sheets are very heavy, so it is difficult for amateurs to lay them properly. Specialized construction techniques and tools are required, and careful work is required. During construction, it is common to hire a contractor.
Also, while it is strong and durable, its disadvantage is that it is relatively expensive.
Advantages and disadvantages of flooring sheets
There are various advantages and disadvantages to using flooring sheets instead of natural materials.
[Advantage] Cost can be reduced
The main advantage of flooring sheets is that they reduce costs. Rather than using natural materials, we simply apply a sheet, so it can be done at a reasonable cost.
Construction is relatively simple, and time and costs can be reduced. If you get used to DIY, you can install it yourself, so you can save a lot of construction costs without relying on a contractor.
Furthermore, it is easy to replace, and when renewing your floor, it will cost less compared to other flooring materials. You can easily replace old or damaged flooring, reducing maintenance costs.
[Advantages] There is a wide variety
Flooring sheets come in a variety of designs, colors, and patterns, so you can change the look of your floor to suit your tastes and the style of your room.
For example, by choosing wood-grain flooring sheets, you can create a space that feels natural warmth. Choosing a marble-like design will create a luxurious atmosphere. For children's rooms, you can also choose flooring sheets with colorful patterns or character designs.
[Disadvantages] Cannot enjoy natural texture
Flooring sheets are made from synthetic materials, so you won't be able to enjoy the texture and texture of natural flooring. For example, it is impossible to reproduce the real wood grain and texture of wood flooring.
If you want to enjoy the warmth and texture of natural materials, we recommend choosing real flooring.
How to choose flooring sheets
There are ways to choose flooring sheets based on design or performance. Here we will explain how to choose each.
Choose by design
Choose the appropriate design for the flooring sheet according to the purpose and atmosphere of the room. For example, there are a variety of styles to choose from, including flooring designs, tile patterns, wood grains, and marble patterns. If you want a natural atmosphere, we recommend choosing wood grain, and if you want a luxurious look, choose marble.
Imagine the atmosphere you want in the room and choose a design that matches that.
Choose based on performance
When choosing a flooring sheet, not only design but also performance are important. Consider the required performance, such as water resistance, abrasion resistance, and stain resistance, depending on the location and purpose of use.
There are also flooring sheets that specialize in the following performances.
- Not easily scratched
- non-slip
- Coated and stain resistant
- Hard to dent
- Compatible with underfloor heating
Also, consider whether you will wear shoes or bare feet, and consider the thickness and cushioning properties. Durability is important in places where shoes are worn, such as offices and stores. If you are wearing bare feet at home, you will also need to focus on dirt resistance and comfort.
How to apply flooring sheets
You can also apply the flooring sheets yourself. The main steps are:
- temporarily lay down the sheet
- cut the excess sheet
- draw a reference line
- Temporarily lay out the second and subsequent sheets.
- Apply double-sided tape to the construction site
- Paste the flooring sheet
- cut the seam
I will explain each step.
1. Temporarily lay out the sheet
First, let's temporarily lay out the sheet. Lay the sheet on the floor and make sure the design and position match. Cut off both ends near the wall, leaving about 10 cm.
If your wall isn't flat, cut it to fit. When cutting, tools such as a ground spatula, cutter, and CF cutter are useful. Work carefully to ensure that the sheet fits snugly to the floor and covers every nook and cranny.
2. Cut the excess sheet
Cut the excess portion of the sheet using a cutter or similar tool.
The key here is to adjust the seat precisely so that it fits perfectly on the floor. Accurate cutting is especially important in order to fit the sheet into tight spaces such as walls and corners.
3.Draw a reference line
Draw a reference line along the edge of the first sheet with a pen or chalk. This reference line will serve as a mark when applying double-sided tape. Accurately drawing reference lines will result in a beautiful finish.
Set the reference line to match the width of the sheet and make sure it stands out.
4. Temporarily lay out the second and subsequent sheets
Temporarily lay the second and subsequent flooring sheets in the same way as the first sheet. Cut off the excess and adjust the seam to fit neatly with the sheet.
If the patterns or patterns are continuous, be careful not to shift them.
5. Apply double-sided tape to the construction site
Apply double-sided tape around the construction site to securely secure the flooring sheet. The key is to apply the tape half way from one side of the construction area.
Place the tape evenly to prevent the sheet from slipping. By firmly pasting the double-sided tape, you can prevent the flooring sheet from shifting or floating.
Next, peel off the release paper from the double-sided tape. Do not remove the seams (joints) between the sheets yet. If you peel it off first, the finish at the seams will be rough.
6. Paste the flooring sheet
When applying a flooring sheet, first fold the sheet into a bellows shape and lift it up. Then, spread the sheet on the floor, align it firmly against the wall, and insert it by hand.
Next, use a pat bucket or roller to press the sheet to the floor. Make sure that the entire sheet is in contact with the floor, applying even pressure.
7. Cut the seam part
Finally, cut the seam. Carefully flip the top sheet over and remove any excess from the bottom. This will hide the seams and create a beautiful finish.
Finish by pressing with a roller. Once you get used to it, you should be able to complete one room in about an hour and a half.
Tips for pasting flooring sheets
There are some tricks to applying flooring sheets neatly. Let's keep the following three tips in mind.
- Clean the floor beforehand
- keep the room warm
- measure exact dimensions
I will explain the tips for each.
Clean the floor beforehand
Before applying the flooring sheet, clean the floor surface to remove dust and dirt and make it flat. Dirt or obstructions left on the floor may prevent the sheet from adhering properly and result in an uneven finish.
Even if you think you've cleaned it perfectly, there are often hairs and small debris left on the floor. If you notice stains later, they are very difficult to remove. Be sure to clean every detail with an adhesive roller or handy cleaner.
keep the room warm
Warm up the room before applying the flooring sheets. The flooring sheet will become softer and easier to paste.
In cold weather or on cold floors, the sheet may become hard and difficult to work with. By warming the room, the sheet becomes pliable and can be applied smoothly.
If the flooring sheet becomes hard, let it unfold for a while in a warm room.
measure exact dimensions
When cutting flooring sheets, it is important to adhere to exact dimensions. If the dimensions don't match, you'll end up with missing or extra sheets. We recommend using a tape measure or straight line to measure the exact dimensions.
When cutting, use a DIY cutter rather than a cheap cutter from a 100 yen store. Some flooring sheets are thick, and if they are cheap, you may have a hard time cutting them.
Choose your favorite flooring sheet and try DIY
By using flooring sheets, you can save costs compared to installing natural flooring or tiles. Additionally, there is a wide variety of options available, so you can create a space with the design of your choice.
However, the important thing is how to choose the flooring sheet. Choose the flooring sheet that suits your purpose based on its design and performance. Suminoe offers a wide variety of flooring sheets. We offer a wide range of designs and functions, including types with anti-fouling coatings that do not require waxing, and types that beautifully reproduce the grain of solid wood. Please use this as a reference when choosing flooring materials.