Graphic Image Flooring FAQs

Graphic Image Flooring Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

*The information provided here is intended to do our best to answer each of the questions. Because every space, use, and installations are unique it is not intended to provide information to fit all situations. For specific information about your project please contact us at info@graphicimageflooring.com

• When was Graphic Image Founded?
  • We were founded by Tim Wirtz in February of 2013 with the goal of delivering the most unique flooring available in the world for approachable prices and industry leading production times.
• What is Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl?
  • Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl is an innovative custom printed vinyl flooring that allows users to design virtually any floor.
• What is the core material for Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl?
  • Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl uses a 100% polyvinyl print media product that is custom printable.
• What surface textures are available for the vinyl?
  • The vinyl material is available in Ceramic, Semi-Smooth, or Wood Grain depending on the material thickness selected.
• Can Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl be used outside?
  • Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl can be used outside in some cases, although heavy or prolonged water exposure can cause the material to cloud slightly, once dry the material will generally return to its normal clarity.
  • Use of Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl in extreme cold temperatures is not recommended or warranted. testing in an outdoor application prior to the installation of the product is highly recommended.
• Is Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl UV Stable?
  • Yes, Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl has UV inhibitors built into the product. Tests have shown that 3-year light fastness can be achieved. The end user must determine their individual end use requirements and suitability for their application.
• Do I need adhesives for installation?
  • Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl can be applied permanently with the use of adhesives or in temporary applications without adhesives. Adhesives are not required but will assist with holding the material in place.
  • Standard vinyl adhesives cannot be used with our flooring. An adhesive that is “plasticizer migrant resistant” is required. Taylor Resolute has been exhaustively tested, however there are others from many manufacturers that have proven to work.
• What types of backing can be used for the vinyl?
  • We offer a non-skid backing that is laminated on the back of the vinyl. It is a black polyvinyl slip resistant material that is available in up to 54” x 25’ rolls. For larger uses a seam will be present but does not affect the performance of your floor.  
  • Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) is another common laminated material. This turns your floor into a large decal. It is not appropriate for larger spaces where the Taylor Resolute is more appropriate for use.
  • For free floating floors, foam, felt, carpet padding, and other backing materials may also be used. Carpet padding is the only material we stock.

• Is vinyl flooring environmentally friendly?
  • Vinyl can be recycled and reprocessed into second-generation products generating more than 1 billion pounds of vinyl recycled annually.
  • Due to widespread post-industrial recycling, more than 99 percent of all manufactured vinyl compounds end up in a finished product.
  • The longer a product lasts, the less energy and other resources must be expended to make and install replacement products.
  • PVC products use fewer resources because they perform favorably in terms of energy efficiency, thermal insulating value, low contribution to greenhouse gases and product durability.

• How do I clean my vinyl flooring?
  • When a second surface printing process is used, because the ink is not on the surface, it can be cleaned with most products that are suitable for vinyl flooring. Do not use very acidic cleaners, aim for PH Neutral.
  • Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl can also be vacuumed, polished, or waxed in commercial applications.
  • They can use a general floor scrubber, with a nonabrasive pad (typically the white or red pad – we don’t recommend the green.  Typically, a combination of mild soap, vinegar and warm water with a floor scrubber will take anything up.

• How do I install Graphic Image Flooring Vinyl?
  • It depends on loose laid or permanent use. See our installation guide.

• Do you accept wholesale inquiries?
  • Yes. We work with resellers throughout the North America.

• Am I able to change the color of your standard Design Pool Pattern colors?
  • Yes. Simply reach out to us with the pattern name and number along with the color you would like it changed to. We will make one color change at no cost to you. Additional changes or custom design changes may have a small charge.

• Can I submit my own custom art for production?
  • This is our specialty and most of the floors that we produce are custom one of a kind.

• Are you able to match Pantone (PMS) Colors?
  • We can match most Pantone colors. Keep in mind that different material types, computer monitors, and very importantly lighting play a big factor in the color you see. It’s not possible to guarantee 100% perfect match.
  • Sherwin Williams paints do a nice job of providing Pantone and CMYK color numbers that assist if getting to your color.

• Are there minimum resolution requirements for printing and achieving a good result?
  • For ideal finished quality it’s best to be at 150 dpi at full size. See Print Guidelines for more information.
  • Images off web sites or the internet are generally too small to use. Keep in mind that when you find an image every time you double its size for print you cut the resolution in half. A 300-dpi image that starts out at 24” x 24” and it made 48” x 48” your resolution drops to 150-dpi, double it again and you are at 72 dpi which generally provides a very pixelated image.

• What is your production time for vinyl flooring?
  • Most projects have a production time of 5-business days from final approved art and payment. Some larger or very complex projects may take a little longer. This does not include shipping times which vary.

• What other types of materials or products do you provide?
  • While we started specializing only in vinyl flooring, we have since expended in offering logo mats, interior and outdoor mats, Berber rugs, chenille rugs, and more.

• What is your production time for rugs?
  • Many of our logo mats have a production time of approximately 5-business days. The dye sub, inlay, Berber, and other rugs and mats production ranges from 2-3 weeks.

• What if my order is damaged?
  • All shipments are checked, packed securely, and reviewed again before it is shipped out and we expect it to arrive in perfect condition when it lands at your door.
  • For any obvious issues you can see from the outside cause by shipping, please either refuse the delivery or sign as ‘damaged’ and take pictures of the damage. Then reach out to us within 24 – 48 hours at info@graphicimageflooring.com.

• What if I order multiple items?
  • Delivery fees are based on the order in most cases. This means if your shipment has multiple items, you are only charged once.
  • There are a few exceptions for products or materials we have shipped directly from our suppliers. For example, if you order a custom-made shipping tube for a trade show floor, we have these made to order and are shipped directly to you. In this case you will see two separate shipping charges on your invoice. This is more cost effective than shipping to us and then shipping out again.

• What types of floor covering do you supply?
  • We are proud to be a leading supplier of custom printed sheet vinyl throughout North America. In addition to permanent and temporary vinyl flooring we have a large selection of indoor and outdoor rugs and floor mats.

• How is the flooring produced?
  • We utilize the latest in large format digital printing. This uses a specialized formula for the inks that not only are UV stable but ensure the proper adhesion to the vinyl.

• Where is your flooring produced?
  • Our vinyl flooring is produced and shipped from Atlanta Georgia. In fact, most of our materials come from the US except for some rug materials that are imported but finished here in the United States.

• What is the wear layer of your vinyl flooring?
  • This is one of the most important questions for vinyl flooring. The World Flooring Association states that the wear layer is the critical element for how long a vinyl floor will last.
  • The print for our floors is directly to the underside of clear vinyl which allows us to state that we offer one of the thickest, if not the thickest, wear layers of any rollout flooring in the world. We did not use fillers or ultra-thin laminated wear layers. Currently your wear layer options are 35-mil, 50-mil, and 75-mil.

• What is the difference between top printed and bottom printed vinyl floors and mats?
  • Top printed flooring uses a solid color material as the base with the ink applied directly to the top of the material. In these cases, most often the flooring is left without a protective wear layer on the top. In these situations, please don't use any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Sharp objects or anything dragged across it will cause marks and scratches.
  • Bottom printed means the ink is applied directly to the underside of a clear material which acts as the protective layer for your space. In these situations, while vinyl can scratch, your image is protected from image damage and handles more aggressive cleaning methods.

• How do I know how much to order?
  • We produce each project to your space rather than stock rolls that can leave you with unwanted or un-needed material. We do not require you to order the full width of the 10’ wide roll.
• What happens to the waste from project of less than 10’ wide?
  • It is important for us to utilize as much of the vinyl flooring as possible. We use the “drops” or unprinted vinyl to produce samples and smaller floor mats.
• How do I measure my room or rooms?
  • Because we produce to your space, your measurements are extremely important. The standard approach is to measure each dimension (length and width) in three locations. Your longest dimension is what to provide as any extra material can be trimmed at install. If you want a little extra material to trim or for adjustment include this in your dimensions.
  • We cannot be held responsible if you’ve provided incorrect dimensions. If you’re unsure, use your professional installer who can provide advice. We always email you a proof prior to production showing the complete image.
  • Don’t forget to include material for under doors or entrances if extending into those areas. While these spaces are small, they are often overlooked.
  • Lastly, if you need assistance, that is what we are here for. Please call 866-406-8877 or email info@graphicimageflooring.com.
• How is my vinyl flooring supplied?
  • Depending on project size, our floors are shipped in rolls with multiple rolls in a single cardboard shipping tube. The maximum size of a single rolls is 10’ wide and up to 58’ long and trimmed to fit in place.
  • If your project requires more than one roll, we typically add a 1” pattern overlap along the adjoining edges to help with aligning when fitting. This extra is trimmed by your installer using what is referred to as a double cut.

• How do I place an order for vinyl flooring?
  • Because we custom print each floor on demand we do not currently offer the ability to purchase on our web site. The site is utilized to showcase the vast options you have to choose from.
  • Logo floor mats that utilize standard dimensions for the products can be purchased on our web site.
  • The fastest way to complete your purchase is to contact a sales representative from one of our resellers or directly at info@graphicimageflooring.com
• After I provide information to order what happens next?
  • After you provide the dimensions, artwork, etc. we will enter the information into our system. A quote is then provided that includes your finished project including any applicable sales tax and shipping.
  • Our design team will provide you with a low-resolution pre-production proof to confirm that we have the correct dimensions and artwork. Once the proof is inspected and approved by you, the customer your order is ready for payment and production. We will email you the invoice to be paid securely online and once paid we produce your purchase.
• Can I use the flooring over underfloor heating?
  • Yes, you can use the vinyl with infloor heating. It will soften the vinyl as it heats which while cause some expansion and contraction. In areas that you have seams the expansion and contraction can be the largest challenge.
• Are samples available?
  • Yes, we offer standard 4” x 6” samples that have pre-printed designs for free. Due to the increased costs of shipping, we do charge for the shipping.
  • For custom samples that are typically 12” x 12” or 24” x 24” that are made to your design we first select the appropriate material with you and then there is a charge for the sample and shipping.
• What is a clean-off or walk-off area?
  • A proper clean-off or walk-off area is simply an area that is used to clean off debris from shoes or pets. This can reduce the dirt tracked in by by as much as 60%. Entrance mats, when properly serviced, can effectively remove abrasive materials from foot traffic and cut down on tracked-in water.
  • In a commercial setting we recommend a minimum of two full strides of entrance matting and in many cases two mats works well as a system. A solid color closest to the entry and a branded mat inside. In residential two strides is generally sufficient. 
     
• What if I have issues?
  • Every flooring we produce is unique to your space and cannot be resold, but we want you to be happy with your purchase. If there is a shipping issue it should be documented so that we can file a claim with the carrier. If there is an issue with the floor itself, we need to hear from you immediately.
  • We are not able to offer refunds but will do everything in our power to make it right. Please see the information contained on your quote and invoice.
• Is your vinyl suitable for commercial use?
  • For flooring we have three series of flooring available with different durability.
  • Our Expressions Floor is a top printed material and thus us used for non-permanent applications or accent rugs. It is UV stable and quite durable when used in a light to moderate traffic environment.
  • Our Prestige Floor is the ideal combination of visual impact and durability. When installed permanently it works well in any residential project or small commercial space. With a 50-mil wear layer it is thicker than comparable floors.
  • Our Endurance Floor is the workhorse of our product lines. Often used for trade show and event floors because of its weight and ability to remain in place without the use of adhesives. This floor is used by our customers in their busiest locations seeing as many as 500,000 visitors on it each year.
• When do I provide payment information?
  • Payment is made in full at the time you approve your proof for production or if you have us create designs for you this payment is due in advance of any design work beginning. Please note that once you approve your designs your project may immediately go into production and thus all sales are final.
• Will I receive an order confirmation?
  • Yes, an order confirmation will be sent to your primary email address for every order. Please review the confirmation thoroughly to prevent any mistakes.
• What is the procedure for submitting a claim for a manufacturer's defect?
  • All claims must be submitted within five days of receiving the merchandise. Photographs of the defective item, along with item number and invoice number must be submitted to info@graphicimageflooring.com for review.
• What is the return policy for custom vinyl or artwork?
  • We do not accept returns for custom merchandise. All sales are final.
• Can vinyl be used on hardwood or tile floors?
  • Yes, it is ideal for most flat surfaces. It will not damage or discolor hardwood floors.
  • When used on tile with wide grout, it will settle into the grout gaps and may be unsightly. We do not recommend use on carpet, gravel, or any other uneven surface.
  • It cannot be permanently installed over another flooring material like tile or carpet.
• What are the advantages of vinyl flooring?
  • There’s a place for vinyl in nearly every project. For more than 100 years vinyl has been and remains a material of choice in the construction industry because of its versatility, durability, and design flexibility.
  • Another of the advantages, next to a great price and quality, is the hygienic aspect of this type of floor. It's the ideal floor for homes with families or people with allergies.
• What is vinyl?
  • Vinyl is not a natural material, but a synthetic man-made type of plastic. It is made from ethylene (found in crude oil) and chlorine (found in regular salt). When processed, these substances are combined to form Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) resin, commonly referred to as vinyl.
  • Invented in 1920 by scientists who wanted to develop a material that was more durable and cheaper than what was available. Vinyl flooring made its debut at the 1933 Chicago “A Century of Progress” Exposition. Budget-friendly, resilient, and flame resistant, vinyl composite tiles stirred plenty of interest.
  • Flooring is one of the most common applications of vinyl.
  • Vinyl flooring is highly resistant to mold, mildew, and moisture.
  • University of Nevada at Las Vegas researchers realized carpet can produce high airborne mold counts, which can be aggravated by vacuuming – Vinyl flooring, however, can be cleaned without dispersing high levels of mold into the air.
• Is a vinyl floor a good floor for my home?
  • If you are looking for a durable floor that is easy to clean, silent and comfortable to walk on, then vinyl is the right floor for your home.
  • You can install a vinyl floor anywhere: in the kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedroom, or hallway. Because of its quiet underfoot vinyl is sound absorbing, which makes it ideal for apartments or upstairs bedrooms.
• Does Graphic Image Flooring do the installation?
  • No. Installation is completed at the local level using your preferred professional installer.
• Do I need to wax my floor?
  • No, vinyl floors do not need waxing. Unlike hardwood or tile floors, there are no special treatments required for vinyl.
• Can I use rugs over my vinyl flooring?
  • Yes. It is recommended to use non-staining polypropylene backed mats or woven rugs. Do not use rubber or latex backed mats, as contact with rubber over long periods can permanently stain your floor.
• What are the size limitations?
• Graphic Image Flooring has provided finished goods from 2’ x 3’ floor mats to nearly 20,000 sq.ft. for transportation hubs and community centers. Most limitations are a function of the artwork or goods being used.
• How much does installation cost?
  • Shipping can vary wildly depending on the destination. We utilize a variety of shippers to ensure that we are using the most cost effective for your particular needs.
• How is the shipping method determined?
  • This is a combination of location and timing. Our most cost-effective shippers often take a little longer to deliver while others have guaranteed delivery dates.
  • Size and weight also play an important factor. Express carriers have maximum dimensions before it must be shipped freight.
• For larger floors what does the shipper do at delivery?
  • The shippers will only deliver to a dock location or door. If inside delivery, trade show, appointments, or other special requests are needed these can be added at the time of order for an additional cost.
• How do floors compare to inexpensive options found at home improvement stores?
  • Home improvement store generally carry floors that are limited layers of material. These begin with a backer, your design layer, followed by a thin wear layer. The wear layer for these products is generally about 10-mil thick. Specialty home improvement stores may carry commercial vinyl floors. These are made the same way and generally only have a 20-mil wear layer.
  • Our floors begin with a wear layer that is 50-mil so your floor by Graphic Image Flooring will stand up to the most rigorous of environments.
  • Our floors are printed on demand, meaning they don’t sit around for months at a time, and you get your design the way you want it.
• Do you offer interlocking tiles, and can those be printed?
  • No. We specialize in rolled flooring, rugs, and floor mats.