Installing new floors in your home can be a costly investment. The key is to consider cheaper, high-quality alternatives that can give your home the same look and feel that hardwood flooring can. When selecting the best type of flooring for you, installation cost, ease of cleaning and durability are all important components to analyze. Understanding the many options you have can take time, so here are some things to consider if vinyl planks or laminate flooring make it to the top of your list.
Durability
Both vinyl plank and laminate are designed to be very durable flooring styles. Vinyl flooring is slightly more susceptible for denting and tearing, especially if large furniture is placed on it for a prolonged period of time. Laminate flooring is also susceptible to scratching and chipping at the corners, especially in high-traffic areas. While vinyl plank flooring is waterproof, laminate flooring is not — and special care should be taken not to place laminate flooring in areas that will be exposed to water.
Good to Know
When cleaning laminate floors, pay particular attention to only use laminate cleaners and never use a wet mop.
Ease of Cleaning
Both flooring types are very easy to clean, especially with steam mops. You’ll want to use mild cleaners and avoid scrubbing or abrasive pads when cleaning both flooring types. For laminate floors, pay particular attention to only use laminate cleaners and never use a wet mop. For difficult stains on laminate flooring, you can use acetone and a microfiber cloth.
Maintenance Requirements
When it comes to keeping laminate and vinyl plank flooring looking like new, you’ll want to use no-wax polishes on vinyl and laminate-specific products on laminate flooring. Additionally, there are products on the market that can help you repair scratches and chips to your laminate flooring, which can give it an instant facelift.
The final determination: Vinyl plank vs. laminate ultimately comes down to style and preference. They are generally around the same cost and installation is easy for both. However, one thing to consider is the long-term quality of the flooring style you choose. Vinyl plank flooring tends to fade over time, whereas laminate flooring is better at retaining its original color.
Conclusion
Whichever flooring option you choose, you’ll want to implement “house rules” to help you extend the life of your flooring, such as having guests remove their shoes and using floor rugs to cover high traffic areas. When you’re ready to learn more about your flooring options, At Home Pros can connect you to licensed flooring contractors in your area.