Vinyl flooring is better than laminate flooring for resale value, as it offers more durability, water-resistance, and design options. Vinyl flooring can also mimic the look and feel of natural materials such as wood, stone, or tile, without the high cost and maintenance. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is more prone to scratches, dents, fading, and moisture damage, which can lower its appeal and longevity. In this article, we will compare vinyl and laminate flooring in terms of their pros and cons, installation, cost, and return on investment.
Vinyl flooring is a synthetic material that is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin, along with additives such as plasticizers, stabilizers, and pigments. Vinyl flooring comes in different forms, such as sheets, tiles, planks, or luxury vinyl planks (LVP). Vinyl flooring has many advantages, such as:
It is very durable and resilient, as it can withstand heavy traffic, impacts, stains, and wear and tear.
It is water-resistant and waterproof, making it suitable for wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
It is easy to clean and maintain, as it does not require waxing, polishing, or sealing.
It is comfortable and warm underfoot, as it has a soft and cushioned feel.
It is versatile and stylish, as it comes in a wide range of colors, patterns, textures, and finishes. It can also mimic the appearance of natural materials such as wood, stone, or tile, with realistic details and embossing.
It is affordable and cost-effective, as it is cheaper than most other flooring options and can last for decades with proper care.
However, vinyl flooring also has some drawbacks, such as:
It is susceptible to fading and discoloration, especially when exposed to direct sunlight or harsh chemicals.
It is not eco-friendly, as it is made from non-renewable resources and can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can affect indoor air quality and health.
It is not biodegradable or recyclable, as it can end up in landfills and contribute to environmental pollution.
It is not compatible with underfloor heating, as it can warp or melt under high temperatures.
It is not easy to repair or replace, as it can be difficult to match the color and pattern of the damaged area or find the exact product.
Laminate flooring is a composite material that is made from layers of high-density fiberboard (HDF), resin, and a photographic image of wood, stone, or tile, covered with a protective wear layer. Laminate flooring comes in different forms, such as planks or tiles. Laminate flooring has some benefits, such as:
It is durable and scratch-resistant, as it has a hard and protective surface that can resist minor impacts and abrasions.
It is easy to install and remove, as it uses a click-lock or glue-down system that does not require nails or staples.
It is easy to clean and maintain, as it does not require waxing, polishing, or sealing.
It is attractive and realistic, as it has a high-resolution image of natural materials that can create a convincing look and feel.
It is relatively inexpensive and budget-friendly, as it is cheaper than hardwood, stone, or tile flooring.
However, laminate flooring also has some disadvantages, such as:
It is not water-resistant or waterproof, as it can swell, warp, or buckle when exposed to moisture or humidity.
It is not comfortable or warm underfoot, as it has a hard and rigid feel. It may also require an underlayment to reduce noise and increase insulation.
It is not very versatile or customizable, as it comes in limited colors, patterns, and styles. It may also have a repetitive and artificial appearance, as it uses the same image for each plank or tile.
It is not very durable or long-lasting, as it can wear out, fade, or dent over time. It may also lose its value and appeal, as it can look outdated or cheap.
It is not easy to repair or refinish, as it cannot be sanded or stained. It may also be hard to find the exact match or replacement for the damaged area or product.
Both vinyl and laminate flooring are relatively easy to install, as they do not require extensive preparation or tools. However, there are some differences in their installation methods and requirements, such as:
Vinyl flooring can be installed over any subfloor, as long as it is smooth, level, and dry. Vinyl flooring can also be installed over existing flooring, such as ceramic tile, linoleum, or vinyl, as long as they are in good condition and securely attached. Vinyl flooring can be installed using different methods, such as loose lay, glue down, or click lock, depending on the type and format of the product.
Laminate flooring can be installed over most subfloors, except for carpet, as long as they are smooth, level, and dry. Laminate flooring can also be installed over existing flooring, such as hardwood, vinyl, or tile, as long as they are in good condition and securely attached. Laminate flooring can be installed using a click-lock or glue-down system, depending on the type and format of the product.
Cost of Vinyl and Laminate Flooring
The cost of vinyl and laminate flooring can vary depending on the quality, style, and size of the product, as well as the labor, materials, and location of the installation. However, on average, vinyl flooring is slightly more expensive than laminate flooring, as it offers more durability, water-resistance, and design options. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of vinyl flooring is between $2 and $12 per square foot, while the average cost of laminate flooring is between $1 and $5 per square foot. The average cost of installation for both vinyl and laminate flooring is between $1.50 and $5 per square foot, depending on the complexity and difficulty of the project.
Return on Investment of Vinyl and Laminate Flooring
The return on investment (ROI) of vinyl and laminate flooring can depend on several factors, such as the quality, style, and condition of the product, as well as the market, demand, and preference of the buyers. However, in general, vinyl flooring has a higher ROI than laminate flooring, as it offers more durability, water-resistance, and design options. Vinyl flooring can also mimic the look and feel of natural materials such as wood, stone, or tile, without the high cost and maintenance. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is more prone to scratches, dents, fading, and moisture damage, which can lower its appeal and longevity. According to Realtor.com, vinyl flooring can increase the home value by up to 3%, while laminate flooring can increase the home value by up to 2%.
Conclusion
Vinyl flooring is better than laminate flooring for resale value, as it offers more durability, water-resistance, and design options. Vinyl flooring can also mimic the look and feel of natural materials such as wood, stone, or tile, without the high cost and maintenance. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is more prone to scratches, dents, fading, and moisture damage, which can lower its appeal and longevity. Therefore, vinyl flooring is a better choice for homeowners who want to improve their home value and attract more buyers.
