Choosing what is better between laminate vs vinyl flooring is like trying to decide between two awesome ice cream flavors.
Is vinyl flooring better than laminate? Well, not entirely. To put it simply, laminate flooring gives you that cool wood look, while vinyl is more suitable if you are looking for something tough and resilient for your living spaces.
So, what is the exact difference between laminate and vinyl? Which one should you choose between laminate vs. vinyl flooring? Find the answer below!
Laminate vs. Vinyl Flooring
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of these two terms, let’s start by exploring what laminate and vinyl flooring are all about.
What is Laminate Flooring?
We can say that laminate flooring is simply like a chameleon – it’s not real wood, but it sure looks like it!
It is made up of layers of synthetic materials featuring a core made of high-density fiberboard (HDF) that is fused through a lamination process.
The top layer is a high-resolution photographic image of stone, tile, or, most frequently, wood, which is then sealed with a protective layer.
You may fall in love with this flooring style as it can mimic the appearance of nature-like material with a more budget-friendly price.
What is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is a versatile option known for its durability and water-resistant properties. It is crafted from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and other synthetic materials.
Vinyl has always been one of the most sought-after flooring options as it is highly resilient to moisture, stains, and scratches.
Its inherent resistance to water damage makes it an ideal choice for spaces where spills are likely to occur.
This type of flooring is widely installed in various home areas, including bathrooms and kitchens.
The Difference Between Laminate and Vinyl
While both laminate and vinyl flooring materials offer commendable qualities, some key differences below may influence your choice between the two.
1. Appearance & Authenticity
The first difference between laminate and vinyl, for sure, can be seen from their appearance.
Laminate, a popular and versatile synthetic floor covering, is made up of a multi-layered construction that combines durability, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness.
It consists of a particleboard wood base, image layer, and transparent layer. The image layer provides authentic appearances, while the transparent layer enhances the flooring’s resistance to stains, scratches, and daily wear and tear.
On the other hand, vinyl flooring offers styles and designs that can transform your space with stunning realism. It replicates the rich aesthetics of natural materials such as wood and ceramic tiles and the luxurious feel of vinyl tiles (LVT).
2. Installation Methods
Then, what is better laminate or vinyl flooring when it comes to the installation methods?
Laminate flooring, known for its ease of installation, typically employs a floating floor system. In this method, the individual planks are designed with interlocking mechanisms that allow them to click or lock together with small efforts needed.
On the other hand, vinyl flooring offers a variety of installation methods based on different skill levels and project specifications. They are:
- The glue-down method: Adhering the vinyl planks or tiles directly to the subfloor for a secure and permanent bond.
- The click-lock method: The planks or tiles simply click or snap together and make a tight and stable fit.
- Peel-and-stick vinyl flooring: You just need to remove the protective backing to reveal an adhesive surface to make the tiles easily attached to the subfloor.
3. Comfort & Sounds
When selecting flooring for your home, comfort is the number one priority. In this case, the hard material in laminate flooring makes it transmits more sound compared to vinyl.
You can consider laminate flooring if like you want a warmer and more comfortable feel underfoot in specific areas like bedrooms or living rooms.
Pros and Cons
Are you still feeling unsure? Then, take a look at the vinyl vs. laminate flooring pros and cons table below to help you make an informed decision.
| Criteria | Vinyl Flooring | Laminate Flooring |
| Appearance | Pros: Resembles natural materials, and wide design options. | Pros: Mimics wood or stone, diverse designs. |
| Cons: Can look synthetic in some cases. | Cons: Patterns may repeat and lack real wood’s authenticity. | |
| Durability | Pros: Water-resistant, durable, and resilient. | Pros: Durable, scratch-resistant, resistant to fading. |
| Cons: Can be susceptible to scratches and dents. | Cons: May be damaged by excessive moisture, not as water-resistant as vinyl. | |
| Cost | Pros: Generally more affordable than laminate. | Pros: Affordable compared to many flooring options. |
| Cons: Quality can vary, and premium options can be costly. | Cons: Mid-range options can be pricey. | |
| Environmental Impact | Pros: Can be recyclable, with some eco-friendly options. | Pros: Can be eco-friendly as it is made from sustainable materials. |
| Cons: Production may involve PVC, not biodegradable. | Cons: May contain high levels of formaldehyde (environmental concerns). |
Laminate vs. Vinyl Flooring Cost
The costs associated with vinyl and laminate flooring can vary, which is driven by factors such as brand, thickness, pattern, and wear layer.
Vinyl flooring tends to fall within the price range of £17.14 to £62.49. In contrast, laminate flooring can be a more affordable option, which typically ranges from £18 to £47.
For those seeking the optimal balance of quality and budget, exploring TEKA Flooring’s offerings in both Laminate and Vinyl flooring could unveil the perfect solution.
Is Vinyl Flooring Better than Laminate?
If you ask, “is vinyl flooring better than laminate”? Well, the answer lies in your needs and room planning preferences.
Based on each uniqueness, vinyl flooring might be your go-to for a sophisticated living room or a bustling office space. At the same time, laminate will greatly steal the spotlight in your children’s room, kitchen, or pet haven, thanks to its resilience.
The beauty of it all is that the choice is yours. But if you are still unsure and feel like you need some expert guidance, then you can get a consultation for laminate vs vinyl flooring here!
Read also: Engineered Wood Flooring VS Laminate: Which One Is The Best?
