Which is better: laminate or vinyl?

Vinyl and Laminate flooring are designed to resemble natural hardwood, metal or stone, and they are some of the most popular flooring materials in Gainesville, Virginia. However, to help understand the best flooring material for your home environment, it is better to compare the two with their durability, aesthetics, water resistance, pricing, and ecological implications. These factors will enable you to review and decide what product category works for you. 

Durability is essential for many homeowners, especially for people with children or pets, for they can be pretty rough on the surface flooring. The first difference between vinyl and laminate is the sound it produces. Vinyl floorings are almost soundless underfoot compared to laminate flooring because of the composition of each flooring. Vinyl is usually made of plastic and soft materials, whereas laminate is produced from a more rigid fibreboard or top layer. In terms of the long-term care aspect, vinyl flooring can be recoated entirely with a new top layer to restore the flooring after several years; on the other hand, laminate is incapable of recoating the entire flooring. Nonetheless, if there is a severe scratch or dent in a particular small area, replacement of that damaged part is also possible with either of the two flooring categories.

In terms of water resistance, laminate is better for areas with minor to no moisture since it is not nearly as resistant to moisture as vinyl. Vinyl can be usually installed anywhere, such as in the bathroom, kitchen, or basement, however, it all depends on the brand. Old laminate products are a bit more vulnerable when soaked in water due to their wood composite materials; they tend to deteriorate or have swelling issues. Presently, many manufacturers now create waterproof laminate products that come with a lifetime warranty. So if you want to choose laminate for your floorings and you are concerned about its waterproofing, we will be sure to help you select the right kind for your environment.

The price range of laminate and vinyl vary depending on the quality, style and features of the product. But sometimes, laminate is less expensive than vinyl. Luxury vinyl is a little more expensive than high-end laminate because high-end luxury vinyl often includes a waterproof interior and an extra thick wear layer. Installation requirements can affect the cost as well. Most laminate is laid down right on top of your existing floor without any adhesive. In comparison, vinyl has different installation requirements depending on the product. Generally speaking, in regards to vinyl vs laminate, pricing is relatively similar, and both are reviewed as the most reasonably priced flooring options.

Regarding the ecological implications of these two materials, we must consider their effects on the environment at home and globally. Does it affect the air quality of your home? Is it manufactured with organic compounds or synthetic materials such as plastic? Laminate is a wood-based product flooring, so it doesn't contain toxic chemicals, and in this way won't affect the air quality of your home. On the other hand, vinyl has a combination of petroleum plastic-based materials and chlorine, which can be emitted into the air in your home. This is known as off-gassing.  If this is a factor in choosing your flooring, consider a low-VOC vinyl flooring option. Low-VOC means that the amount of Volatile Organic Compounds used in the manufacturing of the flooring is reduced. All vinyl flooring contains some level of VOC’s but there are low-VOC options. Floor Score is a recognized indoor air quality certification that can help identify the flooring with VOC levels in your comfort range.

Another essential factor to consider for any flooring material in your home is fire safety. All flooring materials react differently to fire depending on what kind of material they are made of. Vinyl flooring is moderately tolerant to ignition, but it tends to be troubled to extinguish once on fire because of its waterproofness characteristic. While laminate flooring is quite flammable, chemicals are used in different layers to glue together. When they ignite, it releases toxic chemicals such as carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide.

To sum up vinyl vs laminate, laminate is preferable for more durable and water-resistant flooring. Both flooring solutions surpass durability; apart from this, both are relatively resistant to scratches due to the hard wear layer that each product is layered with, which means that both types are excellent for high traffic spaces. If you require more aesthetics, comfort and affordable flooring, the laminate product is a good choice. Regardless of their differences, laminate and vinyl are also much the same in various ways, including maintenance and installation. Vinyl and laminate are both straightforward when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. Simple sweeping, mopping, or vacuum will do. There are no particular cleaning products or equipment necessary in maintaining the floors in good condition. Compared to other natural counterparts such as wood, ceramic tile or stone, vinyl and laminate don't require usual refinishing, resealing or regrouting. 

Laminate and vinyl have planks that lock together; other types need underlayment or sheeting. However, it would be better to ask for professional flooring installers to complete the set-up and installation. For aesthetics outlook, gone are the days that we see artificial wood look for flooring. Nowadays, vinyl and laminate have a wide range of better designs in high-quality prints and protective coating to give the perfect visual look of different surfaces. If you're searching for a floor that resembles stone paving, natural wood, marble or ceramic tiles, either laminate or vinyl can be effective. 

Regardless of flooring option is right for you, we hope this article has enlightened you to make a conscious decision. Apply this information to help evaluate the factors when deciding between vinyl and laminate flooring.  If you are still undecided on which flooring solution is best for you, Rachel's Floors is one of the top flooring company installers in Gainesville, VA, and we can give you particular tips and guidelines for your flooring needs.