Laminate vs. Vinyl Flooring: Complete Comparison to Choose the Best One for Your Home

Vinyl: practical for kitchens and bathrooms

What is vinyl flooring?

Vinyl flooring is a modern and practical option for wet areas in the house, such as the kitchen and bathroom. It is composed of synthetic materials with a mineral filling, which makes it very resistant and waterproof.

Vinyl floor structure:

• UV protection layer — prevents fading.
• Wear-resistant layer — helps protect against scratches and chemicals.
• Decorative layer — a wide variety of textures and designs, imitating wood, stone and other materials.
• PVC base layer — provides stability and resistance.
• Substrate — guarantees a more comfortable and well-level floor.

Thanks to this structure, vinyl flooring is renowned for its durability and ability to resist moisture, making it ideal for the kitchen and bathroom.

Laminate: perfect for bedrooms and living rooms

What is laminate flooring?

Laminate flooring consists of several layers, including a wood fiber base, a decorative layer that mimics wood, and a protective cover. Although it is also resistant, it does not withstand water well, so it is more suitable for dry areas, such as bedrooms and living rooms.

Advantages of the laminate:

• Appearance that mimics wood in a very natural way.
• Great choice for bedrooms and living rooms due to its cozy air.
• It's usually cheaper than some vinyl options.

However, because it contains wood, the laminate is more sensitive to moisture and can be damaged in contact with water.

Comparing laminate and vinyl

To help with your choice, let's summarize the main differences between laminate flooring and vinyl flooring:

1. Appearance and design
   • Laminate is ideal for those who want a natural wood look.
   • Vinyl flooring offers a wider range of designs, including textures that mimic stone and tile.
2. Water resistance
   • The vinyl floor is fully waterproof, making it perfect for wet areas.
   • Laminate is more suitable for dry spaces, where its wooden base is not at risk of spoiling.
3. Sustainability
   • Laminate has an advantage because it has natural wood, while vinyl flooring is made of synthetic material.
   • Both are safe and free of toxic products.
4. Price
   • Laminate is generally more economical.
   • In areas with a lot of movement or where there is moisture, vinyl may be a more durable and cost-effective choice.
5. Thermal comfort
   • Both are comfortable to the touch, but vinyl is slightly more insulating and retains heat better.

Conclusion

Now that you know the differences between laminate and vinyl, it's easier to choose the ideal one for each room in the house. For bedrooms and living rooms, laminate is a great choice because it is cozy and affordable. Vinyl flooring, on the other hand, is perfect for kitchens, bathrooms and areas with humidity.

At Casa Nova, we have a team specialized in floor installation that can help you choose and install the ideal material. Talk to us and discover how to transform your home into a comfortable and beautiful space for many years to come!