TR-HNR-August-September-2019

THINKREALTY BENEFITS

SHERWIN- WILLIAMS

inyl plank has quickly become a mainstay in the flooring industry. By providing a combination of key features, it has gained popularity to become a dominant flooring option. “One major trend we see is the shift from soft-sur- face goods like carpet into the realm of hard-surface throughout a space,” said Justin Brazie, director of marketing-applicators and decorative products at Sherwin-Williams. Why vinyl plank? IMPROVING TECHNOLOGY Since becoming a household fixture following Chicago’s Century of Progress Exposition in 1933, vinyl flooring technology has improved drastically. Today’s vinyl plank options are much higher quality than even what was available five years ago. Modern vinyl plank stands up to heavier traffic volumes and is easier to maintain than its predecessors. Addition- ally, water-resistant finishes are becoming more sophis- ticated, with many manufacturers now selling 100 percent waterproof vinyl plank. LONGER LIFETIME One of the biggest benefits of vinyl plank is its longev- ity — the average life of vinyl plank is 10 or more years. This enables a better return on investment for property owners than many other flooring options and is why around half of the top real estate investment trusts in the country are installing vinyl plank at properties in varying scales. In fact, in 2017 carpet accounted for only 51 percent of flooring in residential units compared to 2006, when it made up 62 percent. “For homes that are frequently replacing carpet Floor Trends: Vinyl Plank KEEP PROPERTIES LOOKING FRESH WITH THIS SMART FLOORING CHOICE. V Content provided by Sherwin-Williams

during resident turnover, vinyl plank may be a good option,” said Brazie. Sherwin-Williams is fielding more requests from homeowners and property managers that want to tran- sition away from carpet. From an ownership perspective, the long-term cost savings with vinyl plank creates an appealing option despite upfront costs that can be up to three times greater in comparison to carpet. STYLISH, TRENDY LOOK Another significant benefit of vinyl plank is the wide variety of colors, finishes and textures, with many high- end styles offering the look and feel of stone, wood and ceramic tile. Currently, gray is the color of choice for many, with natural, wood-colored options not far behind. This product variety helps to provide an even better investment for property owners as occupants look for stylish, trendy options that also help to justify higher selling prices. •

More than 130 Sherwin-Williams Floorcovering Centers offer a complete selection of brand-name options of vinyl plank and sheeting, wood and ceramic flooring and carpeting, plus reliable installation and fast turns. Call 888-375-5902 to reach the Floorcovering Center nearest you. Learn more about savings available to Think Realty members at ThinkRealty.com/supplier-discounts.

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