Luxury Vinyl Tile, Part 2: Alterna

Sistine Bisque Alterna

Last week, we discussed the little-known flooring category, “Luxury Vinyl Tile.” This week, we are discussing our favorite brand of tile in that category: Armstrong’s “Alterna.”

Alterna, a composite of 75% limestone and 25% vinyl, is a gorgeous tile that has a realistic stone look. Consumer Reports had this to say about one of the styles, Alterna Mesa Stone Canyon Sun: “…mimics the real stuff right down to its dappled colors and random textures. Yet it delivers the wear and damage resistance that makes vinyl our top-rated flooring overall.”

There are more than 40 styles available, making it easy to find the right look for your home.

While the limestone gives a realistic look and feel, the vinyl is warmer, softer, and quieter than ceramic. Alterna is also resistant to scratching, fading from sunlight, denting, and foot-traffic wear. For the Mesa Stone style mentioned above, Consumer Reports rated it excellent or very good in each of those categories.

And vinyl’s flexibility means that Alterna is typically less expensive to install than stone.

Want to know more about Alterna or other types of flooring? If you’re in the Cincinnati, Ohio, area, see our Web site: Floor Coverings International, Cincinnati East. Or call our 24-hour appointment desk at 513-729-7499 for a free in-home consultation. And if you’re from outside Cincinnati, Floor Coverings International has more than 100 franchise locations across the U.S. and Canada, so check if there is one near you.