Which is better, laminate or vinyl laminate?

Laminate is a fairly common flooring option. We invite you to pay attention to one of its subtypes – vinyl. To choose which coating is better and what to choose, let's compare these options according to their characteristics.

What is vinyl laminate

This option is called laminate only based on its appearance. In general, it cannot be called one of the subspecies, because their production technology, as well as their composition, differ significantly.

Thus, vinyl laminate is tiles or lamellas made on the basis of polyvinyl chloride. The floor consists of 3 layers:

• Base. Made by polymerizing vinyl chloride. It also contains various plasticizers and stabilizers.
• Upper. This is a paper layer on which a decorative design is applied.
• Protective. It consists of a thin film that protects the design from abrasion and scratches.

Main differences from the usual

The main difference is the material used for manufacturing. The base of the vinyl floor is PVC, the base of the laminate is lumber.

Laminate boards have more layers.

• The basis is HDF board made of pressed lumber.
• Under the base there is a stabilizing layer of thick cardboard, which is responsible for noise and heat insulation.
• Next is a paper layer with a decorative pattern.
• The finish consists of melamine or acrylic resins. It protects the board from abrasion and damage and gives it a shiny appearance.

Pros and cons of conventional laminate

Knowing the basic characteristics, we can deduce the pros and cons of each material.

So, the positive qualities of laminate are the following.

• Thickness. The minimum thickness of the board is 4 mm, the running thickness is 8 mm. While vinyl laminate is 3mm.
• Environmental friendliness. Looking at the components, as well as the production method of the compared materials, we conclude that laminate is more environmentally friendly.
• Life time. When used properly, laminate flooring has a longer service life than vinyl plank.
• Easy to install.

The disadvantages include:

• poor moisture tolerance;
• fire hazard (except for fire-resistant models);
• difficulty in replacing individual lamellas;
• scratches easily; if the load is distributed incorrectly, gaps appear between the lamellas.

General characteristics are presented here. If we talk about wear resistance and service life, then these parameters depend on the nature of use and care of the floor, as well as the class of the laminate.

Pros and cons of vinyl laminate flooring

Among the advantages of such a board we highlight:

• high moisture resistance;
• resistance to scratches;
• fire resistance;
• no possibility of cracks appearing.

The disadvantages include:

• not environmentally friendly;
• small board thickness;
• difficulty in installation.

What's better

The choice depends on the required characteristics. If the floor will be laid in a room with high humidity, as well as a high degree of use, then you should choose vinyl laminate.

If the operating conditions are normal and the flooring is being installed in a residential area, you should choose laminate.

Important! The main condition for both materials to last a long time is proper care.