Homeowners look for and prefer durability and affordability when they search for proper flooring choices for their homes.
The most common decisions are made in favor of vinyl and laminate flooring. These are two popular choices that we will explore today.
We explain the features of both flooring types and list which rooms in your homes they will be most suitable for.
Vinyl flooring
It’s come along way in recent years and you can find a range of designs and styles that will copy the look of natural materials like wood and stone. Vinyl is more cost-effective than these as well.
- You should use such flooring in areas most likely to suffer spills or high humidity as it is highly resistant to water.
- It’s resistant to scratches and dents, so areas of your home where you expect the most foot traffic to be is the place for this type of flooring.
- Vinyl flooring will give you a warm and cushioned feel when you walk on it, especially with textile-backed options.
- You can use different methods to clean it, such as regular vacuuming, sweeping, occasional damp mopping, etc.
- Because vinyl comes in different colors or patterns, you can work it into the different aesthetic plans of your rooms.
Drawbacks
While it’s not easy to scratch or put incisions in this flooring, in case there are deliberate deep scratches, they can be challenging to fix and may need complete replacement.
Some vinyl flooring options may even contain harmful chemicals that can carry a negative environmental impact.
Suitable Rooms
- Kitchens
- Bathroom
- Basement
- Bedrooms
- Living rooms
Laminate flooring
The other popular option of flooring – laminate flooring – will look like hardwood as well but at a more affordable price point. It has multiple layers (high-density fibreboard core and a photographic layer, for example) that look like natural materials.
- Laminate flooring costs less as compared to hardwood flooring.
- It also provides resistance to scratches, dents, and stains.
- The flooring comes with click-lock systems that may make DIY installation possible and simpler. However, it’s always recommended to go with the services of a professional to avoid hassle and mistakes that can be difficult to deal with.
- You’re good to go with regular vacuuming or sweeping to maintain these floors.
- There is a huge range of styles similar to various wood species and other natural materials available in this flooring type.
Drawback
Laminate is sensitive to moisture, which means it can swell in case of contact and become damaged. Laminate flooring can’t be sanded if damaged.
Sometimes these laminate floors may produce a hollow sound when you walk on them but it might be reduced with proper underlayment.
Suitable Rooms
- Living rooms
- Bedroom
- Home office
- Dining rooms
- Dry basements
Comparison
From the above information, it is clear that vinyl is a better choice for kitchens because it is superior in water resistance, whereas laminate will need prompt cleanup of spills as it is prone to damage resulting from moisture.
Both these flooring types will do well in living rooms – the decision of choosing between the two ultimately boils down to personal choices and budgets.
For bedrooms, too, both work fine, but if vinyl gives you more comfort and warmth, laminate will give you a better, authentic wood look.
Vinyl is a much better choice for basements because of moisture resistance. You can put laminate in dry basements, but it’s still at risk of costly repairs.
Both these flooring types will give you unique benefits and they may be suitable for different rooms in a home. You have to decide based on your personal style preferences as well as how much traffic levels you’re expecting or what kind of moisture exposure a room will pose. Consider speaking with a professional before making a choice.
Urmston Carpets offers a wide range of flooring options, including laminate and vinyl, alongside over 1000 rolls of carpet; they provide free fitting and delivery services.