As one of the most popular flooring options, resilient flooring is versatile and long-lasting, even for high-traffic areas. It is the flooring of choice in many businesses because it is attractive and durable, with so many colors and patterns to choose from. Resilient flooring includes linoleum, vinyl, cork, and However, no flooring material is without its drawbacks, and one issue that people experience with this type is discoloration from the top down.
Common Causes of Discoloration
Here are the 6 most common causes for resilient flooring to discolor from the top down:
- UV Ray Exposure: Resilient flooring can become faded when exposed to the UV rays of the sun over long periods of time.
Manufacturers design many resilient flooring products to resist damage from UV rays. These protective features help reduce fading and discoloration caused by sunlight exposure.
However, long-term exposure to sunlight can still affect the flooring over time. Continuous UV exposure may eventually cause fading, yellowing, or uneven discoloration in certain areas of the floor.
- Acid Spills and Animal Secretions: Harsh chemicals, whether commercially made or natural ones from urine, can affect the surface of the resilient flooring and compromise the integrity of the material.
- Asphalt Tracking: Foot traffic can carry asphalt particles into a building from unsealed asphalt driveways and walkways. These particles can stain resilient flooring and cause yellow discoloration. Cleaning and mopping can sometimes spread the discoloration across a larger area.
- Hot Spills or Excessive Heat: High heat can damage resilient flooring and affect its appearance. Hot appliances, heated objects, or hot liquid spills can discolor, soften, or otherwise compromise the flooring material.
- Carpets and Rugs: Placing carpet or rugs on top of this kind of flooring can affect coloration, as the rubber backing of the carpets reacts with the surface of the flooring.
- Manufacturing Defect: Sometimes manufacturers don’t catch the problems with the material before shipping and installation, and the flooring doesn’t meet industry standards for resisting stains, spills, and more.
Repairing Resilient Flooring
Resilient flooring is one of the toughest and most versatile flooring options on the market. However, certain conditions and contaminants can still cause discoloration over time.
The best repair method depends on the size, severity, and location of the discolored area. Small areas may require only minor repairs, while widespread discoloration may require partial or full replacement.
When resilient flooring comes in tile form, installers can often remove the damaged tile and replace it with a new one. This repair method can restore the appearance of the floor without replacing the entire surface. Sheet-style flooring will need to be patched using a piece that is slightly bigger than the discoloration. Generally, repairs to resilient flooring should be done by a professional to maintain a high-quality appearance.
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