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Looking for easy-care, budget-friendly flooring options is common among homeowners. The popular choices are Laminate and Vinyl flooring. Both these flooring types are common, yet there are differences worth considering while deciding to install in your home. Here is a guide to help you choose the right floor suitable to your needs.
Laminate Vs Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Laminate flooring made its entry in the 1970s in the flooring market as a man-made floor. It was the first alternative to natural wood that gained popularity fast and manufacturers came out with stunning looks that surpassed real hardwood easily. It has realistic wood-look flooring.
Laminate flooring comprises 4 layers, Backing layer, Base layer, Print layer, and Wear layer.
Vinyl flooring is equally popular and has come a long way to be the best hardwood flooring alternatives. It is also man-made featuring looks resembling the natural materials such as stone, wood, etc, while it comes in sheet, plank, and tile forms.
The luxury Vinyl flooring also comprises 4 layers, Backing layer, Solid Vinyl Core, Print Vinyl Layer, and Wear Layer.
Luxury Vinyl Vs Laminate Flooring
Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/z0VlomRXxE8
Appearance
- Earlier, Vinyl flooring was easy to differentiate from laminate flooring. It used to come in sheets and looked like ceramic tile with patterns.
- While, the laminate flooring presented wood-like looks, and appeared very much like plastic materials.
But today with 3D print technology, they look similar to natural materials. Both offer versatility allowing any interior design to complete in style.
Durability
- Vinyl flooring holds well in areas of high-traffic. It is prone to damage, such that it can dent under heavy furniture.
- Laminate flooring is durable and is an ideal choice for houses having pets and children. It is resistant to damage and does not require refinishing like hardwoods. However, it can chip or scratch after a few years.
Water Resistance
- Vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof and it is a great choice for damp locations such as bathrooms and basements.
- Laminate flooring is said to be moisture-resistant. However, the perils with it are that with standing water on the floor, it can seep through the seams. There are advances claiming to improve water-resistance, though it is not sure of being waterproof.
Cost
- Vinyl and laminate are budget-friendly flooring choices.
Comfort
- Vinyl is cold and hard to touch and it does not have any insulation in between the subfloor. It is not ideal for bedrooms and living areas.
- Laminate flooring benefit is that it is comfortable underfoot. It has thicker composition giving a soft and warmer feel.
Ease of Installation
- Vinyl planks installation requires following a few steps and tools to install, making it a superior choice.
- Laminate flooring installation requires more tools as it needs an underlayment over the subfloor protecting it from moisture.
Maintenance
People choose vinyl or laminate flooring owing to the simplicity of maintenance. Vinyl planks are easier to clean, but pouring water on it can break the adhesive.
Finally, there is no winner in vinyl vs. laminate flooring. They are beautiful, strong and less expensive, making it a better choice. See in person and determine your choice.