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When it comes to deciding what flooring you want throughout your home or business, you’ll find yourself faced with several different options. Two of the most popular flooring types are vinyl tiles and laminate flooring, each of which has something to offer in the way of practicality and style. But which is best for your needs?
Below, we are going to take an in-depth look at both laminate flooring and vinyl tiles. We’ll explore their differences, explain who each would be best suited to, and the benefits and potential disadvantages of both flooring types. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what would work best for your project.
Let’s get started by taking a side-by-side look at the key differences between laminate and vinyl flooring.
Vinyl Tiles are made up of several layers. The bottom layer is usually made of fiberglass, which provides stability and flexibility, and directly above this is the core layer, which is made of vinyl and a plasticiser, giving the tiles a waterproof property. The next layer is a printed design layer that can replicate the look of wood, stone, or other materials and colours, and the final top layer is a clear, protective coating that adds durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Completely different, laminate flooring is made from high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and these act as its core. This core is topped with a high-resolution printed design layer, which can mimic different types of wood or stone, and above this there is a “wear layer”, which is usually made of a melamine resin, providing protection against scratches and stains.
Vinyl Tiles are known for their exceptional durability. They are highly resistant to water, stains, and physical damage, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and spaces prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Laminate Flooring is also quite durable but it tends to be less resilient to water damage due to its fiberboard core. Also, while it can handle heavy foot traffic and is resistant to scratches and dents, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the planks to swell and warp.
The lifespan of vinyl tiles an last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on the quality of the product and the level of traffic it endures. Higher-end luxury vinyl tiles with thicker wear layers tend to have a longer lifespan, so if you’re feeling vinyl flooring is the right choice, it would be a good idea to go for a premium option.
You can expect to get 15 to 25 years of use from laminate flooring, making it a little more long-lived than vinyl. However, do keep in mind that its longevity can be significantly reduced if it is installed in areas with high moisture levels or if it is not properly maintained.
Of the two flooring options, vinyl tiles are generally cheaper. Of course, the actual price will vary depending on how many tiles you need for your project and the manufacturer, with high-end brands costing more than budget options.
Laminate flooring is slightly more expensive, but not by very much and, in most cases, there is only a few dollars difference between vinyl and laminate flooring.
It’s easy to cut vinyl floor tiles into shape and you don’t necessarily need any specialist equipment, with just a utility knife with straight edge being suitable for the job. This makes them a good choice if you’re laying flooring as a DIY project or what to save money on the installation process.
Laminate Flooring requires more precision and tools for cutting, such as a circular saw or a jigsaw. This is because the laminate planks are harder and more brittle than vinyl, which can make them more challenging to cut accurately, and you’ll likely need professional installation to do the job correctly.
Thanks to a specific layer in their construction, vinyl tiles are completely waterproof, so they’re one the best options for bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and anywhere else where water resistance is a top priority.
While the top layer of laminate flooring is resistant to spills, it isn’t waterproof and the core can absorb water if it’s allowed to seep through the seams, which can lead to swelling and damage.
Both are pretty low maintenance flooring options, but vinyl flooring wins by a hair here, as it can be easily cleaned with a damp mop and mild detergent. Also, their durability and water resistance mean that they do not require special treatments or sealants, and there’s no risk of any moisture residue causing damage.
The main reason laminate flooring is a little harder to maintain is that it requires regular cleaning but must be kept dry to prevent moisture damage. This means it should be cleaned with a damp (not wet) mop and laminate floor-specific cleaners to maintain its appearance and lifespan, which, compared to cleaning vinyl tiles, is a little more involved.
It’s best to used vinyl tiles in areas that experience high moisture or heavy foot traffic, such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.
Laminate Flooring is better for living rooms, bedrooms, and other areas where moisture is not a big concern, and you would like a realistic wood-like appearance while maintaining comfort underfoot.
One of the biggest benefits of vinyl tiles is their water resistance. This makes them an excellent choice for rooms prone to spills and moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms, and when vinyl floors are laid in these spaces, you don’t have to worry about water damage, which can be a huge concern with other types of flooring.
Vinyl tiles are also highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, which makes them ideal for busy households with kids or pets. They also come in a wide range of designs and styles, making it possible to achieve the look of real wood, stone, or tile at a fraction of the cost. This versatility means that vinyl tiles can fit seamlessly into various interior design schemes, from modern to traditional and everything in between.
Despite their many benefits, vinyl tiles do have some disadvantages. To start with, they can be less visually appealing than natural materials like wood or stone, and even high-quality vinyl cannot perfectly replicate the texture and depth of these materials.
Over time, vinyl tiles may also show signs of wear, especially in high-traffic areas, and while they have a high level of durability, they are not impervious to damage and can become scratched or scuffed, and while they are generally durable.
Another potential disadvantage is that vinyl tiles can be difficult to repair. Unlike hardwood flooring, which can be sanded and refinished, damaged vinyl tiles often need to be replaced entirely, which can be a hassle and add to the long-term cost.
Vinyl tiles are the best for those who need to prioritise water resistance and durability over the authentic look and feel of natural materials, and they are also ideal for families with young children or pets, where spills and accidents are common. They are a great choice for budget-conscious DIYers, too, who want a stylish yet affordable flooring option that can withstand the rigours of everyday life.
With laminate flooring, you’re offered the aesthetic appeal of natural wood or stone at a much more affordable price. It is available in a wide range of styles, colours, and textures, making it possible to achieve the look you’ve been dreaming of without breaking the bank.
Laminate flooring is also durable and resistant to scratches and dents, which, like vinyl flooring, makes it suitable for high-traffic areas in the home. While it may not be as easy to maintain as vinyl, it’s also low maintenance compared to some other materials, so it’s a good choice if you’re looking for an easy-to-clean flooring option that looks good, too.
Laminate flooring’s main weakness is its susceptibility to moisture, and while the top layer is water-resistant, the fibreboard core can absorb water, leading to swelling and warping if exposed for prolonged periods, making it less suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Also, while laminate can mimic the appearance of wood or stone, it lacks the authenticity and can feel less solid underfoot. Over time, the wear layer can become scratched, too, and while minor damage can be repaired, more extensive damage may require replacing entire planks, which can be inconvenient and costly.
If you want the look of wood or stone without the high cost, laminate flooring is a very good option. It’s also a good choice if you’re not overly concerned about spills or moisture resistance and want flooring that is relatively easy to maintain.
Both laminate and vinyl floors offer excellent options for different needs and preferences, and while they are fairly similar, there are also some differences you need to think about in terms of practicality. For bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, or any other area that is likely to see spills and heavy moisture, vinyl tiles would be the way to go. If you’re aiming for a realistic wood or stone effect, laminate flooring is going to be the better choice. No matter what you choose, you can rest assured you’ll be getting highly durable flooring that is easy to take care of.
