Vinyl flooring is a type of flooring with a polymer core made from polyvinyl chloride, better known as PVC. However, when it is a combination of PVC and wood, it known as WPC, and if it is made from stone (calcium carbonate) and PVC, it is known as SPC. Vinyl floors usually covered with textile fabrics or decorative paper that simulate the look of stone or wood, and make any room look spectacular. While Laminate flooring is a synthetic floor covering that has designed to look like wood flooring or sometimes stone flooring. It has been a popular choice with DIY enthusiasts for decades. Traditionally it offered a cheaper alternative to real wood. Any keen home renovator can install laminate flooring without the need of a professional floor fitter.
Laminate vs. Vinyl Flooring: What’s the Difference?
The main difference between laminate and vinyl flooring is that, unlike laminate, most vinyl floors are waterproof or water-resistant. This means that laminate isn’t the best choice for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
Durability Of Lamina And Vinyl Flooring
Because of how the two materials are made, laminates are harder than vinyl flooring. Laminates can stand great wear and tear after many years, while softer runs the risk of being torn. Should you choose vinyl flooring in the end, do make sure that you have protective covers on your chairs and tables legs
Even if you’re not looking to do heavy industrial type of work at home. Both laminate and vinyl floorings are still great home flooring options. And what about homes with playful kids, or maybe an active pet? Not to worry, both are generally very durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic.
Maintenance and Care
Laminate versus vinyl flooring – which is easier to maintain? Generally, the upkeep and care required for both is rather simple, as they can be maintained with regular sweeping and common cleaning products.
However, when mopping laminate floors, homeowners should ensure that water does not pool over it for a long time. This will prevent it from swelling. As the other type is softer, take precaution and avoid dragging rubber materials on it to avoid color stains.
As it is the case of most Singapore homes, our floors are often subjected to direct exposure under the sun. This may sometimes lead to floors fading in color, but laminate flooring stands out as it does not change color when exposed to sunlight. Nevertheless, you could install blinds or shades to generally keep the sun out of the room.
Water Resistance
The biggest difference you’ll find between laminate and vinyl flooring is how well they can withstand moisture, with vinyl coming out on top. While luxury vinyl tile, sheet vinyl and other luxury vinyl floor types are typically made with 100% waterproof materials. Laminate flooring has wood byproducts that can’t handle moisture as well.
What floor to choose
In many respects, vinyl and laminate flooring are evenly matched. When deciding which is right for you, it’s best to consider the unique needs of your home and the particular areas you’re renovating. Read on for a deep dive into how laminate and vinyl flooring compare.
