Expert: John Michaels - 7/1/2009

Question
In my bathroom under the area rug with the rubber back it is turning yellow, now i have read that is called ambering, and that people notice it when direct sunlight has been on the area, and they remove the rug... anyhow, no sun hits in my bathroom much at all. Just wondering if there is a way to bring back the color and get rid of the yellow, this is a no wax floor
thanks
Michelle

Answer
Hi Michelle;Depending upon how noticeable the discoloration is, by removing the rug, it may disapate if it is very slightly noticeable, however it may also be permanent.  This condition is usually not due to any defects in the rug or vinyl floor.  The vinyl floor is made up of products that evaporate.  If you put anything over the vinyl floor such as the rug, a plastic garbage pail, etc., that inhibits the normal evaporation, the pattern dyes in the vinyl floor discolor.  As you can see, UV sunlight or heat generated by sunlight, is not a direct cause of the yellowing.  Nothing from the rug leaches down into the vinyl floor.  I believe if you obtain the maintenance manual for your vinyl floor, published by the exact manufacturer of the floor, it will probably contain information such as not to use rubber type backed rugs on the surface of this vinyl floor.  Improper maintenance, (using improper cleaning agents, allowing the floor to remain wet, after cleaning, or by just having the rug remain wet, can accentuate this condition.  By removing the rug, normal evaporation continues, and there is a possibility of a lightening or disappearance of the yellowing may occur.  If you use a rug, it should be a non-rubberized type, such as a double sided cotton type.  You might try such a rug, but make sure it is not a sliding hazard.  Usually the larger the rug, the more weight it has, and the heavier weight can possibly eliminate any tripping or sliding condition.  If you have any other questions, please feel free to get back to me.

Cordially,

John Michaels