When you’re looking to update your flooring, vinyl and laminate flooring are both great options to look into. They are both easy to install, affordable, and have a similar look. So which one do you choose? Today, we will look at the differences between vinyl and laminate flooring to help you decide which would be a better fit for your home.
Vinyl vs. Laminate
Vinyl and laminate flooring are both budget-friendly, easy to clean and improve the look of your home. While these floors have a lot in common, there are also some key differences to consider.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is man-made flooring with a natural look, often resembling wood or stone. It is durable and can last up to 50 years. It is also softer and more sound absorbent than laminate flooring. It is very comfortable to walk on, but it is also susceptible to scratches over time.
It is made from 100% plastic and is very resistant to moisture. Water will not damage the surface of the flooring even if it sits for an extended period of time. This makes it the perfect flooring to install in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
Vinyl flooring comes in planks or tiles and different patterns to give it the look of tile or stone. It can be grouted, glued down, or installed floating.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is also synthetic and looks like hardwood floors at a fraction of the cost, which makes it an attractive option. It is also durable, lasting up to 30 years.
Although it is resistant to staining and scratching, laminate flooring is susceptible to water and moisture, which may damage the flooring. Therefore, it is not recommended for use in the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room.
Many homeowners prefer the look of laminate because of its more realistic look. So, it is often installed in more visible areas of the home, such as dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, and entryways.
Laminate flooring is easy to install and comes in interlocking planks, which is installed as a floating floor.
Which is the better option?
Both vinyl and laminate flooring are budget-friendly and are easy to install as well as easy to clean. When choosing between vinyl and laminate flooring, you should consider where the flooring is going to be installed as well as the look of the flooring. Both flooring types offer many styles and options to choose from. Both flooring types are durable and can handle heavy traffic.
Neither type of flooring improves the resale value of your home. Realtors recommend hardwood floors for increased home value. However, both floors improve the aesthetics of your home at a fraction of the cost of hardwood floors.
Both types of flooring are attractive, so it may just come down to personal preference as well as where you are having the flooring installed. It is also good to consult with a local flooring store to seek professional advice when making this decision.
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