Let's Compare Different Types Of Flooring!
What is Carpet Flooring?
Carpet flooring has been around for a long time, and we are all familiar with it. However, most of us are not familiar with all the different options for carpet. From shag to nature wool, carpet has something for everyone.
What Is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl is a synthetic flooring system made of polyvinyl plastic, normally vinyl is found in kitchens and bathrooms. Vinyl has multiple layers, the wear layer, printed layer and decorative layer, vinyl also has an inner core that consists of a foam and vinyl layer, and a backing.
There are many types of vinyl flooring. luxury vinyl planks, luxury vinyl tile, wood composite, stone composite, and sheet vinyl. Vinyl mimics the look of ceramic, stone, or wood.
What Is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is a synthetic alternative to wood stone and tile flooring laminate planks are between 6 and 12 millimeters (mm) thick. the thicker the boards the more impact-resistant the flooring is. Laminate offers more cushion than vinyl.
Differences Between Vinyl, Carpet and Laminate Floorings
Appearance
Vinyl and laminate flooring mimic the appearance of tile, stone, or wood. Laminate is frequently thicker, it is usually between 6 and 12 mm (about 0.47 in), while vinyl is about 5 mm (about 0.2 in) thick. Carpet fiber lengths can very vastly and there are more options for carpet designs than you could ever imagine.
Care and cleaning
Vinyl, Carpet and laminate flooring are easy to clean and require basic care. All three need sweeping and vacuuming frequently. Vinyl and laminate also need mopped often to maintain a good clean look. Be sure to use a good high-quality mop with warm water and a light cleaning solution. Avoid using detergents, abrasive cleaners, and scrubbing pads. With carpet, if it does not get stained, cleaning is easy! A quick vacuum and it will look great, smell great and will be fluffed.
Cost
Vinyl and laminate flooring are both similarly priced in many cases and is a more affordable option than wood or tile. Vinyl will cost between $1 and $5 per square foot, while luxury vinyl flooring can cost between $2 and $12 per square foot. Carpet will cost between $1 and $10.
Durability and Maintenance
Vinyl, Carpet, and laminate flooring can be low-maintenance and long-lasting. Vinyl flooring is the least durable option. Laminate is resistant to scratches and stains, however it is not waterproof, carpet is also not waterproof but once it is cut, burned, or stained fixing the carpet is impossible.
Installation
You can install vinyl and laminate over existing flooring, but carpet needs to be installed over a clean subfloor and carpet pad. Homeowners can install vinyl themselves. Laminate typically employs click-and-lock installation, and you can install laminate over radiant heating systems, most homeowners can install this as well. When it comes to carpet, most homeowners will not be able to install this on their own.
Longevity
Flooring life depends on maintenance and foot traffic. Vinyl flooring can last around 25 years, laminate flooring can last up to 20 years and carpet can last for up to 30 years with light foot traffic and diligent care.