Vinyl plank flooring and laminate flooring are two of the best types of flooring systems when you are looking for attractive, durable, and economical floor coverings for your home. They are both easy to install and cost almost the same. They also look the same from a distance. To decide which of these floor covers is right for your home, take a look at the vinyl plank flooring vs laminate comparison.
Many people think vinyl vs laminate is the same. This misconception may have been somewhat true two decades ago, but with the latest advancements, the differences between these two flooring solutions are clearly noticeable.
I. Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank floor is also often called luxury vinyl plank or luxury vinyl floor.
1. What is Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Vinyl plank flooring comes in the form of strips. It is designed to mimic hardwood. It is available in various styles, each style resembling a certain type of wood such as hickory, oak, and other wood. Vinyl plank is one of the best choices if you want to have hardwood flooring but do not have the budget for it and do not want to go through the challenges of installing hardwood.
Vinyl plank flooring first became popular because it convincingly resembled wood plank flooring than plastic laminate flooring. Today, vinyl can also mimic the look of porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone such as granite and marble.
① Styles of Vinyl Planks
- Wood-Look Vinyl Planks
Vinyl planks can mimic the look of hardwood so well. The surface of this flooring system is plastic (polyurethane applied on site or a special factory finish) with photographic images of real hardwood.
- Hickory Wood
- Oak Wood
- Teak Wood
- Chestnut Wood
- Walnut Wood
- Maple Wood
- Ebony Wood
- Stone-Look Vinyl Planks
Stone-Look Vinyl Planks can mimic the look of
- Quartz
- Slate
- Marble
- Travertine
② Types of Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring comes in three categories.
- Luxury Vinyl Planks
Luxury vinyl planks come with a rigid construction and are extremely durable. Although there is no defined standard in the flooring industry of what “luxury” means, these planks can withstand high foot traffic especially from kids and pets. Luxury vinyl planks are also thicker and more durable. They have a more realistic image and tougher wear layer.
- Rigid Core Vinyl Planks
The core of rigid core vinyl planks is of stone-plastic composite. Its core is almost indestructible and super dense. It can withstand heavy furniture without denting. It is ideal for commercial buildings and high traffic areas.
- Waterproof Vinyl Planks
Waterproof vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof because it comes with a waterproof core within its 4-layer construction. Waterproof vinyl planks are ideal for imperfect subfloors. It is usually installed.
③ How to Install Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is available in four types of installation depending on the circumstances of your home.
- Peel and Stick. Peel off the adhesive backing and press it onto the floor.
- Interlocking. Vinyl planks are locked together to create a somewhat floating floor. The vinyl flooring does not adhere to the subfloor but it is held in place by the weight of the floor.
- Loose Lay. Each vinyl plank comes with a backing that grasps the subfloor to keep it from moving. You do not need any glue.
- Glue Down. Each plank is glued to ensure they fully bond with the floor
2. Wear Layer
Wear layer refers to the top surface responsible for the durability and making the vinyl scratch and stain resistant. The wear layer of vinyl is made of a clear urethane-based coating. Some wear layers of vinyl are added with durability and UV layers on top of the usual wear layer to protect the surface more.
The wear layer of vinyl flooring planks is available in:
- 6-mil
- 8- mil
- 12-mil
- 20-mil
- 22-mil
- 28-mil
Here is a guide to help you decide on the right wear layer:
- Regular residential areas – 12-mil or thicker
- High-traffic residential areas – 29-mil or thicker
- Commercial areas – 28-mil or thicker
For low-traffic areas, the thickest wear layer may be an overkill. However, if your vinyl flooring will be subject to high traffic or tough daily torture, a thick wear layer is better.
3. Construction
Vinyl flooring is constructed through a delicate process. Each layer is meticulously added until the vinyl plank is completely assembled. While construction of each plank is time consuming, it makes vinyl flooring one of the more durable flooring options.
Each vinyl floor plank comes with these layers:
- Base Layer. The base layer holds all the other layers and keeps them in place. This solid PVC backing gives added strength and support to the plank. It makes the vinyl easy to install.
- Fiberglass Layers. This gives the vinyl flooring plank its structure. It supports the other layers and keeps the vinyl flat and even. It prevents it from curling even after years of use.
- Cushion Layer. This layer provides the function and texture of the vinyl flooring. The felt or foam cushion layer makes the floor more comfortable and softer to walk on.
- Pattern Layer. This layer holds the color and design of the vinyl flooring. This is the layer that holds the high-resolution printed image (wood-like or stone-like images).
- Wear Layer. This layer protects the pattern or design layer.
- Top Coat. This is the uppermost layer that is responsible for the shine of the vinyl flooring. It also functions to protect the wear layer of the flooring from damage.
The combined layers of vinyl planks create a durable, cushioned, and sound-absorbing floor surface. It is more comfortable to walk on than harder flooring solutions
4. Vinyl Plank Flooring Pros and Cons
- Durable and Long-Lasting
Vinyl plank flooring can last for up to 20 years. It combines the character and beauty of hardwood with the durability and affordability of vinyl. Vinyl contains tough materials such as limestone powder and cork to make it a sturdy and durable flooring option.
- A Variety of Styles
Vinyl planks come in a variety of styles designed to mimic popular flooring systems including wood and natural stone. Some vinyl plank flooring also comes in large plank formats.
- Realistic Appearance
With advanced HD technology, high-resolution printed images (wood-like or stone-like images provide a realistic appearance. Mineral streaks, knots, and wood grains of oak, hickory, cherry wood, or maple-looks are all captured in vinyl planks.
Vinyl planks also come in long and differing sizes similar to authentic solid hardwood planks.
- Moisture Resistant
Vinyl seals water better than genuine hardwood and laminate. This means vinyl plank flooring does not quickly absorb water and spills. It can withstand leaks, spills, mud, snow, and dirt.
Being moisture resistant, vinyl planks are ideal for basements, kitchens, mudrooms, entryways, and bathrooms.
- Stain-Resistant
If you have kids and pets in your home, spills and accidents are common occurrences. With vinyl planks, your floor will be protected from stain damage.
- Softer and More Comfortable to Walk On
Vinyl planks contain felt or foam in their cushion layer. This feature allows vinyl to be a softer floor and thus, more comfortable to walk on. The top layer of vinyl plank flooring will have a strong feel but standing on it for extended periods of time is more comfortable than standing on real hardwood. Objects falling on vinyl are also less likely to break.
- Easy to Install
Vinyl planks can be directly installed on top of the subfloor. This makes the installation process easy and cost-effective (the subfloor needs to be in good condition).
- Easy to Clean and Maintain
Vinyl requires very little cleaning and maintenance to look its best. You can vacuum vinyl to pick up dust and dirt. Occasional mopping will ensure the vinyl plank flooring is always clean.
- Cost-Effective
Vinyl plank flooring mimics the look of hardwood and stone to the point that, from a distance, will not be able to see the difference. Vinyl planks come with the beauty and elegance of hardwood without the high cost.
- Warping Concerns
Vinyl products are prone to warping when the subfloor is not cleared of all particles prior to the installation of vinyl plank flooring. A small amount of trapped dust, for example, can cause bumps on the floor. Extra care should be done to make sure there are no particles left on the subfloor.
- Tough to Remove
Vinyl plank flooring is difficult to remove because the adhesives and glue used to make it adhere to the subfloor hardens.
- Shorten Lifespan than Wood
While vinyl plank flooring can last for many years, it cannot outlast the lifespan of woo. Moving heavy furniture can cause gouges and scuffs that can be difficult to remove. If you have to rearrange furniture, lift it off the ground and transfer its location. You can also use felt to cover the feet of furniture.
- Prone to Fading
Vinyl, just like other flooring options, may tend to fade when exposed to direct sunlight.
- Emits VOCs
Some vinyl products emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Make sure to choose vinyl planks that do not do so.
- Not Biodegradable
Vinyl plank flooring is a durable product; however, it is not organic like wood. It is, therefore, not an eco-friendly product.
- Low Resale Value
Vinyl plank flooring will not contribute much to increase the resale value of your home as genuine hardwood. If you are renovating your home to increase its resale value, go for genuine hardwood and not vinyl plank flooring.
II. Laminate Flooring
Laminate came to be as a residential flooring option decades ago. It was an attractive and easy -to-install option to genuine hardwood flooring. Since that time, the technology used to produce laminate has advanced to include deeper embossing, sharper HD imaging, and better seaming systems.
1. What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate is a hybrid synthetic flooring system that consists of a particleboard wood based, an image layer, and wear layer. It is a popular type of flooring option for the hallway, living room, dining room, kitchen, bedroom, and other spaces that are not too exposed to excessive moisture.
Laminate flooring is designed to replicate the look of hardwood and stone flooring. From a distance you cannot ever tell the difference between genuine hardwood and stone flooring from laminate flooring. However, laminate does not contain any genuine wood.
Each laminate plank consists of various synthetic layers with the top layer having a photo of wood or stone.
In the past, laminate was only available with a wood-like effect. With advanced technology, laminate became available in different effects and designs including different species of wood, bamboo, stone, and ceramic.
Laminate flooring can be used in almost any area of your home. It is built to be durable and resistant to daily wear so it can be installed in hallways, bedrooms, and living rooms.
① Laminate Floor Installation
The subfloor needs to be prepared before installing the laminate flooring. The existing floor covering should be removed (wood, old laminate, carpet, etc.) the subfloor also needs to be clean, dry, level, and flat.
It is easy to install laminate flooring. Floating the laminate over an underlay is the easy method. Click and lock each laminate plank into place.
Any DIY enthusiast can install laminate flooring without the help of a pro floor fitter. You do not need any special equipment, nails, or glue.
② Laminate Floor Maintenance
Laminate flooring can be cleaned by regular sweeping. Stubborn stains can be removed with a mop and wood floor cleaner. It is important to wipe away water as it spills in the laminate to avoid future damage. It is also important to use protective pads on the feet of furniture to protect the laminate from scratches.
2. Thickness
The thickness of laminate is measured from the base to the top of the board and is measured in millimeters. The pad attached to some laminate boards should not be included as part of the laminate thickness.
The thickness of laminate is more for the aesthetic feel and look. Its thickness also affects its durability and lifespan.
Thicker laminates come with these benefits:
- Quieter to walk on
- More detailed designs can be etched
- More impact resistant
- Feels more like hardwood
- Can hide imperfections in the subfloor
In the past, the laminate only came with one standard thickness. Today, the thickness of laminate ranges from 6-millimeters to 12-millimeters. You may not see the difference a few millimeters would make to the laminate floor itself, yet there will be a difference in cost.
- 6mm-8mm Thickness
- Low resistance to impact’
- More echo when walked on
- Feels like walking on plastic
- More subfloor imperfections seen
- Cheaper
- 8mm Thickness
- Better durability
- More comfortable to walk on
- Most common option
- Affordable price
- 10mm – 12mm Thickness
- Durable
- More resistant to wear
- A 12mm thickness is the closest you can get to the look and feel of hardwood
- A 12 mm thickness comes with the most aesthetically attractive designs
There are two factors to consider before choosing the right thickness.
- How much money are you willing to spend? As mentioned, the thicker the laminate plank, the more expensive it is.
- Do you live in a noisy area? If you live in a noisy area, it is best to go for a 12mm laminate flooring.
While thicker is better, consider what thickness works best for you.
3. Construction
Laminate flooring consists of multiple layers. The main goal is to produce a finished product that mimics the look of genuine wood or stone flooring.
- Backing Layer. This layer provides the plank with protection against moisture. It balances the floorboard to help give additional strength to the floor. It also keeps the plank from bowing or cupping during installation.
- Substrate Layer or Core. The core of the laminate plank is a wood-chip composite or high-density fiberboard that is about half of an inch and gives the plank its structure.
- Pattern Layer. This is the portion of the laminate plank that you see. It contains the high-definition photograph of the effect you chose (wood or stone). The image is so detailed that it looks like real hardwood or stone.
- Wear Layer. This is the transparent protective surface layer of the plank. It is a hard-transparent plastic sheet made of aluminum oxide that is resistant to scratches that may be caused by moving furniture with unprotected bottoms, dogs, high heels, and other elements that may damage the laminate plank. It also protects the plank against fading, surface burns, moisture, UV rays, and stains.
The finished plank comes with a click-fitting mechanism on each edge.
4. AC Rating
The Abrasion Criteria (AC) rating comes on a scale of 1 to 5. It represents the wear resistance of the laminate plank.
- AC 1. Ideal for home use with very minimal foot traffic such as the bedroom
- AC 2. Ideal for home use with medium foot traffic.
- AC 3. Ideal all foot traffic areas in your home. This includes areas with high foot traffic such as the foyert.
- AC 4. Ideal for home use in all traffic areas that come close to some commercial standards if need be.
- AC 5. Ideal for use in commercial areas with heavy foot traffic.
The higher the AC rating, the more durable the laminate plank. The most common AC rating for laminate planks used in homes is AC 3 and AC 4.
5. Laminate Flooring Pros and Cons
Laminate flooring is a popular and common choice. It comes with many advantages, unfortunately, it also has some downsides.
- Strong and Durable
Laminate floors are strong and durable. They can resist impacts, scratches, and stains. The construction of laminate also gives it stability. Its seams will not open up due to the changes in humidity.
- Lightweight
Laminate is lightweight thus; it can be installed over an underlayment of thin foam cushion. It also can be installed over any existing flooring except carpets.
- Resistant to Fading
Laminate, just like real wood and stone, will not fade even when exposed to direct sunlight. This is because of its protective top layer.
- Water-Resistant
Good-quality laminate flooring is water-resistant while some types of laminate are waterproof.
- Scratch-Resistant
All laminate flooring can be used even if you have pets at home. The wear layer of laminate is a scratch-resistant layer. It is so tough and durable, thus your pet claw scraping or marking will not scratch the laminate flooring.
- Wide Variety of Styles
Laminate flooring is available in a wide variety of patterns and colors. It used to be available only in dark wood or pale wood. Today, laminate planks are available in different styles or effects of wood and stone.
- Can be Used with Underfloor Heating
Most types of laminate planks can be used with underfloor heating. For effective heat transfer. You just need to use the right underlay. It is also best to check with the manufacturer.
- Hygienic
Laminate flooring is easy and quick to clean so it will prevent the build-up of dirt and dust. It is also an ideal flooring some members of your family are allergy-prone.
- Cost-Effective
Laminate flooring mimics the look of real hardwood and stone, yet it is much cheaper. This makes a popular choice for homeowners on a budget.
- Easy to Install
Laminate flooring can be easily installed with the click-fitting system. You just need to click the planks together to fit an underlay. The snap-together system of installation eliminates the need to use glues that often have high VOCs and thus, emit harmful odor.
- Easy to Maintain
Laminate flooring comes with a tough wear layer that is easy to clean and maintain. Occasional sweeping and mopping are all that is required to keep it looking as good as new at all times.
- Synthetic Flooring
Laminate planks may look like real hardwood or stone but it is still synthetic. It gives an unnaturally hard feel. It also has a harsh sound or echoes when you walk on it.
- Can be slippery
Laminate flooring comes with a smooth surface thus, it can cause some accidents. It can be more dangerous when there is water on the floor.
- Cannot be Refinished
Unlike real hardwood, it is closed to impossible to refinish laminate flooring. When it wears out, you will have to replace it.
- Not Eco-Friendly
The wear layer of laminate planks contains plastic. Plastic does not degrade. Additionally, some laminate planks are made with chemicals, such as formaldehyde, that may release toxic VOCs. These chemical compounds are dangerous for the environment.
- Prone to Moisture Damage
Even top-of-the-line laminate flooring is prone to moisture damage. It should, therefore, not be installed in laundry rooms and rooms with floor drains or sump pumps. If installed in the basement, it should have a moisture barrier.
You can use laminate flooring in the kitchen but you need to immediately clean splashes and spills. When installed in bathrooms, the edges need to be glued and the perimeter sealed with silicone caulk.
- Produces some Unwanted Sound
Unwanted sound or something like an echo can be heard when you walk on laminate flooring. Some homeowners find the sound disturbing.
III. Side-by-Side Comparison: Vinyl Plank vs Laminate
Many confused vinyl plank flooring and laminate flooring because they look similar. Truth is, vinyl and laminate have several differences. If you do not know the difference between these flooring options, you may have difficulties in choosing which is the best for your specific application. You may also be prone in picking the wrong flooring.
1. Appearance
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl has a thicker and more core, thus it can take a deeper embossing. Vinyl is fully synthetic.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is made of natural materials. It allows a deep and realistic 3-D embossing.
Best for Appearance: Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring has a better appearance than vinyl plank flooring. While they have a comparable appearance, laminate flooring will more closely resemble hardwood or stone.
2. Styles and Sizes
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is typically available widths of between 4” to 8” and between 36 and 48 inches in length. It can easily be cut to size with a utility knife because it is a relatively soft material.
Vinyl planks are also available in various colors and styles. It is available in many colors of oak, mahogany, and cheery allowing you to achieve either a chic or classic look.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is available in widths of between 4 inches and 16 inches and in lengths of between 36 inches to 48 inches. vinyl planks can be cut to size, although a bit difficult.
Best for Styles and Sizes: Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is more versatile than vinyl in terms of available sizes. Laminate likewise has a more extensive selection of colors and styles than vinyl.
3. Durability
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is tough can withstand the demands of high traffic. Most vinyl plank flooring comes with over 15 years of warranty. Urethane can also be added on its wear layer during installation to extend its life.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is a durable flooring material; however, its many layers will tend to deteriorate over time or when exposed to excessive moisture. Scratches on the top layer of laminate cannot be repaired. Good quality laminate flooring can last for about 20 years.
Best for Durability: Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring and laminate flooring are made of several layers of materials. VINYL plank flooring is many times more durable than laminate flooring. Vinyl is often used in commercial applications where durability is the main priority in choosing a flooring system.
4. Comfort
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl is installed directly on the concrete subfloor thus; your feet will feel the cold if not insulation is installed underneath. It is also not too comfortable to stand for longer periods.
Laminate Flooring
Beneath the animate layers is a foam underlayment making it comfortable to stand on for longer periods.
Best for Comfort: Vinyl Plank Flooring
Laminate flooring is more comfortable to stand on than vinyl because of its thick underlayment. It is also possible to install heating systems underneath your laminate flooring.
5. Applications
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl is ideal for residential, commercial, and industrial applications because it is resistant to moisture and high humidity.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is not ideal for areas that are prone to high exposure to moisture and humidity.
Best for Applications: Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is extremely efficient and effective for all types of interior application. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is ideal only for low-moisture and low-traffic applications. This makes VINYL plank flooring ideal flexible than laminate in terms of where they can be installed.
6. Moisture Resistance
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring comes with a 100% polymer material that is waterproof. This means vinyl can be immersed in water even for long periods, dried, and then reused without causing any damage.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring comes with a fiberboard core which is wood. This means it will swell and soften when exposed or immersed in water. The fiberboard will not return to its original size when it dries up. The design layer also tends to peel away when laminate is exposed to water.
Best for Moisture Resistance: Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl and laminate are waterproof but vinyl is 100% waterproof. This makes vinyl a better flooring option for kitchens and bathrooms.
7. Pet Friendliness
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is scratch-resistant and 100% waterproof, thus you need not worry about scratches coming the nails of your pets. Dander and pet hair can also be easily swept or vacuumed.
Laminate Flooring
The top layer of laminate is scratch-resistant so you do not need to worry about any damage your pets’ nails may cause. Laminate, however, is not waterproof so pet urine can seep into the cracks on the flooring that are unsealed leaving a lasting smell. Pet urine can also damage the fiberboard layer of laminate flooring.
Best for Pet Friendliness: Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl flooring is scratch-resistant and 100% waterproof making it a better option than laminate flooring if you have pets at home.
8. Cost
Vinyl Plank Flooring
A low-cost vinyl plank flooring can cost $2 per square foot. A mid-priced vinyl can cost$ 5 per square foot. A high-priced vinyl can cost $7 per square foot, Installation could cost between $3 – $10 per square foot.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate floors can cost $ 1per square foot for the low-end styles, $ 2 -$4 per square foot for the mid-priced styles, and $ 5 per square foot for the high-end styles. Installation can be about $3-$10 per square foot.
Best for Cost: Tied
Vinyl plank flooring and laminate flooring cost almost the same per square foot. They are the least expensive replica of hardwood or stone.
9. Installation
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring can be installed over an existing floor (except carpeted floors) without using glues or nails. Installation can be through the click-and-lock and peel-and stick methods. An underlayment can be included to keep the floor warmer and to reduce noise.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring can be installed in the same ways as vinyl with some slight differences. Laminate requires a vapor barrier for the protection of fiberboards against moisture.
Best for Installation: Tied
Vinyl and laminate can be installed as a DIY project. vinyl plank flooring, though has more installation options (peel-and-stick method).
10. Maintenance & Cleaning
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Spills are easy to clean in vinyl plank flooring because it is a smooth surface and 100% waterproof. Cleaning entails consistent sweeping, wet-mopping, and light vacuuming. It also requires occasion deep cleaning.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring should be cleaned using the dry method with a broom and damp mop. You should immediately clean water and spills to prevent the floor from buckling, warping, or separating. Completely avoid wet-mopping, too. You can spray soap-free cleaning solutions to remove sticky substances and stains.
Best for Maintenance & Cleaning: Vinyl Plank Flooring
Laminate flooring is easier to clean than vinyl because it only requires regular sweeping and almost dry-mopping.
11. Return on Investment
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring has been rising in popular in recent years. If you choose a top-quality vinyl plank flooring, it could raise the assessed value of your home. low-quality vinyl plank flooring, however, can hurt the value of your home.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring does not impress appraisers too much. Although top-quality laminate flooring can slightly increase the value of your home, picking a low-quality and cheap version can negatively affect its value.
Best for Return on Investment: Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring will give your home more resale value than laminate flooring.
- Related Article: 3 Types of Window Systems: Window Wall, Curtain Wall and Storefront
Conclusion
Vinyl plank and laminate flooring are both durable. They both can mimic the look of real hardwood and stone. This makes them ideal flooring options for those whose budgets cannot accommodate real hardwood and stone flooring systems.
Vinyl plank flooring can be used for residential and commercial applications. laminate can only be used for homes because it is not 100% waterproof.
You cannot go wrong with vinyl plank and laminate flooring options. Vinyl plank flooring, though, is a better alternative to real hardwood and stone flooring than laminate flooring.
CONTACT US
Whatsapp Us: +86 13392205270
Leave A Comment