As a homeowner making a hefty investment, you want your flooring to be durable and easy to maintain while matching the aesthetic of your home. In order to make this process easy for you, we have sorted some differences between the two trending flooring options, vinyl and laminate! Read through to find out some key information about both their cost, maintenance, durability and more!
What Is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl is an entirely synthetic material. Vinyl flooring has multiple layers, such as a wear layer, decorative layer, and foam inner core. Finally, there is the vinyl layer and backing. A few main types of vinyl flooring include:
- Luxury vinyl plank flooring
- Luxury vinyl tile
- Wood plastic composite
- Stone plastic composite
- Sheet vinyl
What Is Laminate Flooring?
A laminate flooring is again a synthetic multi-layer alternative to hardwood flooring options. They can also mimic the look of stone and times. Laminate planks are 6 to 12 mm thick which makes them more impact resistant and easier to install. Laminate floors have a cushioned feel as compared to vinyl options and are considered best for high-traffic areas.
Differences Between Vinyl and Laminate Flooring
While they both seem similar initially, they are significantly different. Let’s take the following categories to outline the differences!
- Appearance
Vinyl and laminate flooring both mimic the appearances of tile, stone, or wood, but laminate takes an edge over quality. Laminate is thicker between 6 and 12 mm while vinyl is about 5 mm thick.Vinyl sheets are embossed, while laminate finishes include resin seals. - Cleaning and Care
Both vinyl and laminate flooring options require minimal care, such as sweeping or vacuuming. If that fails to remove dirt, you may use a slightly damp cloth as recommended by your manufacturer. However, avoid using detergents, abrasive cleaners or shine products as they can damage flooring. - Cost
Vinyl and laminate floors are both affordable than wood or tile options. Between the two, vinyl is less expensive than laminate.According to general ranges, vinyl can cost anywhere from $1 to $5 per square foot, while luxury options might cost more. Many variables, such as scratch-resistant coating or material thickness, play a role in determining flooring price. - Durability
Both vinyl and laminate flooring options are highly durable and low-maintenance. However, laminate can be susceptible to water damage and be impossible to refinish.The lifespan of each flooring material is dependent on how well you maintain your floor and entire foot traffic level. - Water Resistance
Vinyl flooring is more resistant to water damage than laminate flooring, making it a preferred choice for bathrooms and kitchens, especially if you’re considering flooring installation in Cypress.
Our Recommendation For Best Flooring
Vinyl and laminate offer similar appeal but they have their own share of differences. Here is a list of recommendations you can follow!
- Rooms with high humidity levels, like kitchens or bathrooms, are ideal for vinyl flooring, particularly if you’re planning bathroom remodeling services in Cypress.
- Laminate flooring is ideal for high-traffic areas, so consider it when renovating your kitchen or other busy spaces.