vinyl vs. laminate flooring

Your flooring has a significant impact on the look and feel of your home. Your house may have all the desirable features you can think of and is very well designed, but the wrong flooring will make your home look average and become dated sooner. The good news is that you don't have to look very far for the best flooring for your home.

Vinyl and laminate are both exceptional flooring choices for your homes because of their durability, versatility, and affordability. Despite their similarities, these flooring options also have some differences, which you should consider when choosing the right flooring for your home.

Let's explore and compare laminate and vinyl flooring so you can decide which one is right for you.
 

Aesthetic


Vinyl and laminate flooring does a great job of imitating more expensive floor types such as hardwood and tile. Thanks to the advancements of modern technology, manufacturers were able to make them look realistic. If you are on a tight budget but want the elegance and the classic look that wood flooring gives, then these flooring options would be a great alternative.
 

Durability


In general, vinyl flooring is a resilient form of flooring. It is susceptible to water spills and will not be damaged by water. This type of flooring is perfect for wet areas such as the bathroom, kitchen, laundry areas and basement. However, the surface can fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight.

While vinyl flooring is a durable product, it is not as tough as high-grade laminate flooring. Some laminates come with a warranty of up to 30 years. The downside is that it's not completely waterproof. While small spills will not damage laminate floors, it can suffer from damage when large amounts of water are involved.
 

Cost


Whether you choose vinyl or laminate flooring for your home, you are sure to have a low-budget floor covering that provide the durability you need. You can buy vinyl or laminate flooring for about $1-3 per square foot.