Have you ever considered whether you can paint vinyl flooring? Surprisingly, it’s a common question. But more surprisingly, the answer is yes – you can!

Admittedly, it’s not just a case of splashing some paint all over the floor. But it is doable.

However, there are several things to consider before you paint over vinyl. Common questions to ask first include:

Below, we explore the various stages of painting vinyl flooring below to discover whether it is the right option for the room.

Painting vinyl flooring

Let’s get the downsides out of the way first!

While you can technically paint vinyl flooring, it’s not usually recommended. The surface isn’t designed to bond paint, which means it’s certainly not a long-term solution for your interior design ideas.

Many experts say if you want to paint vinyl or lino flooring, it needs to be at least a year old, as the surface is worn-in adequately. However, all dirt, oils and residue need to be removed. Painting vinyl flooring also doesn’t hide any holes, tears or dents, meaning it’s not an alternative to replacement if your flooring is damaged.

Maintenance of painted vinyl flooring

While giving your vinyl floors a lick of paint may seem more cost-effective, there’s aftercare to consider. The material is not designed to be painted over, so it doesn’t adhere particularly well to the surface. This means high-traffic areas will see the paint wear off quicker. It’s also not ideal to use in bathrooms or kitchens due to increased moisture affecting the paint.

Limited colours available

Painting vinyl flooring requires specific paints that stick better to the surface. Because of this, you’ll find they are only available in limited colours. It is also harder to create designs or, for example, imitate wood or stone. So, this leaves limited options for your interior styling.

However, if the above hasn’t put you off painting your lino, check out the steps on how to pull it off.

How to paint vinyl flooring

Before you start, you’ll need sandpaper, a clean cloth and a paint roller. Plus, paint, topcoat and primer.

The process is pretty simple, but the preparation stage is key to getting a good finish. Steps to take are:

What kind of paint do you use on vinyl floors?

The type of paint you use is another key element in getting a good result. For example, anti-slip floor paint is a suitable choice due to its finish. Another option, rubber paint, is durable and flexible, which is ideal for getting a long-lasting finish.

If you need any help choosing paint, head to your nearest DIY store, who can point you in the right direction.

Is painting vinyl flooring cost-effective?

Painting vinyl offers a reasonably quick and affordable option for updating old lino flooring. However, as vinyl isn’t designed to hold paint, how long it lasts depends on what room it’s in.

High traffic areas will see paint fade and chip quickly, meaning touch-ups or complete repaints will happen more often. This not only adds more to the cost but also takes several hours of prepping and painting.

If you’re looking for a long-term flooring solution or upgrade, replacing it completely is an affordable option. There are various designs to choose from, and once it’s installed, you have a 10-20 year guarantee for peace of mind.

Installing vinyl flooring vs painting vinyl flooring

There are many aspects to consider when weighing up whether to paint your existing vinyl flooring or install new panels. Time and cost are among the most important factors, along with whether you’re looking for a long or short-term option. There are also several benefits of installing new vinyl to update your living spaces…

Benefits of vinyl flooring

Opting for replacement vinyl flooring has many advantages over painting vinyl. These include:

Top-quality vinyl flooring

Painting your vinyl flooring is a viable option, especially if you’re looking for an affordable, quick upgrade solution. However, vinyl flooring is fantastic long-term choice to get great results and designs that match your interior design.

At Igloo Surfaces, our Simplex collection offers hardwearing and stylish options perfect for any living space. Choose from classic colours such as Antique White Ash or a traditional faux wood design with Vintage Oak. Whatever your preference, you’ll enjoy peace of mind with a guarantee of 10-20 years along with refreshingly simple installation.

Order 4 samples for £1 & receive a £5 discount - Order Samples Now >>
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