When searching for durable, budget-friendly flooring, both laminate and vinyl are great options. But which would be better suited for your lifestyle? Read on to learn the difference to help inform your decision.
While laminate and vinyl flooring both offer an assortment of visual styles that can enhance the appearance of your home, the differences between them can be a determining factor in your purchase.
Each product is comprised of several layers that combine to create a durable floor covering with a realistic, natural look.
The main difference you will find between the two options resides in the core layer of the products.
The fiber board construction of laminate lends itself to a more authentic underfoot feel that mimics that of natural wood flooring. Combined with the high-resolution imagery, it is often difficult to tell the difference between laminate and the real thing! Vinyl Plank flooring, on the other hand, is created with 100% synthetic materials (essentially plastic) and is much thinner than laminate or wood.
You can see from the pros and cons that each option has its benefits and its drawbacks. Which one you decide to go with will depend on your intended use for the flooring. A good rule of thumb is to evaluate your daily lifestyle and what you need out of your flooring. If you are looking for superior durability that won’t scratch, dent, or fade, and you aren’t worried about water issues, then laminate may be the way to go as it offers a more realistic wood appearance and feel than its vinyl counterparts. However, if you are worried about potential moisture issues, or you are looking to only remodel a bathroom or kitchen, vinyl flooring would be the better option.
Whichever you decide to choose it is always important to do your research. There are many brands available and each one will have its own features that will lend to its quality and durability in your home. Prior to your purchase you should always ask to see the warranty for your selection, as well as the installation and care and maintenance requirements.
Choosing new flooring for your home can be a bit overwhelming but being armed with the proper knowledge and expectations will help make your decision that much easier.
Here at County Flooring we offer a vast selection of both laminate and vinyl flooring options in a variety of price points that will fit any budget and our knowledgeable sales staff will be happy to assist you. Please, continue to browse our online showroom, or stop by and see us to begin turning your home visions into a reality!
