05 Aug Vinyl or Laminate – Differences to Consider Before Installation
Vinyl and laminate are two of the most popular options in flooring for homeowners who want something that’s easy to install, that is a good DIY choice, and that is affordable. Both fall into each of these categories, and both are long-lasting, clean, easy to care for, and look good in many areas of the home. But, there are some key differences to note with vinyl and laminate flooring. Before choosing which one of the two to install, in any room of your home, consider these differences.
Vinyl flooring
Some of the key aspects of vinyl material is that:
– It’s super moisture resistant
– It’s 100% plastic material
– It’s a good choice for bathrooms or other damp areas of the home
– It’s 100% waterproof and comes in various colors.
Vinyl is plastic and covered by a PVC finish to prevent scratching and other damage. It comes in sheet and plank varieties, so installation is fairly quick and easy, even for those who aren’t DIY experts.
Laminate Flooring
If you’re considering laminate, some key factors you’ll want to know about the material include:
– It’s 99% wood-based material
– It has a higher resale value and appears more “natural” than vinyl
– It’s thicker and warmer than vinyl, making it more comfortable to walk on
– The wood core board means swelling will occur if placed in bathrooms or other damp areas
Laminate isn’t as water resistant, but can be installed in some rooms with lower moisture levels. Laminate is also a little pricier than vinyl, given the natural appearance, and the fact that it’s made with the more durable, wood core finish.
Which is Right for Your Home When Installing Your new Flooring
Well, the answer is going to depend on a few factors. Some questions to ask are:
1. Where are you installing it? – For damp areas vinyl is a good choice. If it’s a dining room, living room, or area where there’s more traffic, consider laminate.
2. Are you on a budget? – Both are fairly affordable, but laminate is a cheaper option for whole-home installation jobs.
3. Will you resell your home soon? – If so, laminate is the superior option, as it has a higher resale value.
Ultimately, it’s a personal choice. Both materials look good, they’re easy to maintain, easy to clean, and long-lasting. Given the layout of your home, and the appearance you prefer, each homeowner will ultimately go a different route when choosing their new flooring material.