Vinyl, Laminate, or Hardwood? A Flooring Specialist in Lombard Explains

Struggling to choose the perfect flooring? Explore insights from a flooring specialist in Lombard on vinyl, laminate, and hardwood. Find your best fit now!

Which of the three floorings you get will depend on your budget and your expectations. Laminate is more affordable than vinyl and hardwood, but hardwood is often considered more luxurious. Meanwhile, vinyl serves as a good middle ground for those who want the best of both worlds. 

As of 2023, luxury vinyl was the world’s most popular flooring material. However, that doesn’t mean it’s the best option for your home or aesthetic. 

Here’s what a flooring specialist in Lombard has to say about the best flooring for homes. 

Comparing the Basic Flooring Options

One of the best home renovation tips is to know your options. These three are some of the most popular ones to choose from. 

Vinyl flooring is available in sheets, tiles, and luxury vinyl planks. It’s waterproof, affordable, and resilient.

Laminate flooring is a synthetic product made to look like wood or stone. It’s durable and scratch-resistant but not waterproof. 

Hardwood flooring is natural, timeless, and luxurious. It’s one of the best floorings for homes when long-term value and beauty are top priorities. 

Hardwood vs Laminate vs Vinyl

Every flooring type has its good and its bad. Part of the buying process is weighing those pros and cons to determine what’s worth the investment. 

Hardwood Pros and Cons

Hardwood brings with it a classic appearance that can increase home value. It has a long lifespan, and homeowners can refinish it multiple times. 

The problem with hardwood is that it has a higher cost and requires regular maintenance. You may also run into water and humidity damage. 

Laminate Pros and Cons

Laminate flooring is the most affordable of the three options. It’s easy to install and comes in a wide variety of styles. Laminate is also resistant to scratches. 

The drawback of laminate is that you can’t refinish it, and it doesn’t add much resale value. Like hardwood, it’s vulnerable to standing water. 

Vinyl Pros and Cons

The best thing about vinyl flooring is that it’s completely waterproof, which makes it great for high-moisture areas and climates. It’s cost-effective and softer underfoot than some other options. 

Vinyl’s drawback is that it can dent under heavy furniture. It also doesn’t have the same kind of prestige as hardwood, even if you get a style that resembles it. 

What Is the Healthiest Flooring to Put In Your House?

Health-conscious homeowners often ask which flooring type contributes to better indoor air quality and fewer allergens. 

Hardwood flooring is generally considered the healthiest because it’s natural and doesn’t trap dust or allergens like carpet. However, finishes and adhesives used during installation should be chosen carefully to avoid volatile organic compounds (VOCs). 

Laminate flooring may release VOCs depending on the product. Many modern brands offer low-VOC and eco-friendly lines. The same applies to vinyl flooring. 

Do High-End Homes Use Vinyl Plank Flooring?

Surprisingly, there are some luxury homes that use vinyl plank flooring. The type they use is a high-end one that mimics the look and feel of hardwood so well that many buyers can’t tell the difference at first glance. 

They may also use luxury vinyl plank floors in spaces where moisture is a concern. Great uses include finished basements, laundry rooms, and bathrooms. Homeowners then install real hardwood in the main living areas and bedrooms. 

Flooring Installation Considerations

The best flooring for homes isn’t only about the material. It’s also about proper floor installation. Poorly installed floors will show gaps, warp, and fail prematurely. 

Hardwood installation often requires Lombard flooring advice and expertise. General contractors use specialized tools to make sure it’s fitted properly. 

Laminate installation is more for DIYers thanks to click-and-lock systems. Subfloor preparation is still key to avoiding uneven surfaces, though. 

Vinyl installation depends on the type. Sheet vinyl requires precision. Luxury vinyl planks are simple to install. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install new flooring over existing tile or hardwood?

In some cases, you can. Vinyl plank and laminate can often be installed over existing flooring if the surface is level and stable. Hardwood typically requires a bare subfloor for best results. 

Of course, if you want more insulation or water resistance, you’ll want to install a subfloor either way. You also won’t want to install new flooring over a broken or uneven one. 

Which flooring is easiest to clean?

Vinyl and laminate are both very low-maintenance. Sweeping and occasional damp mopping are usually enough. Hardwood requires more careful cleaning to avoid water damage.  

Keep in mind that certain cleaners can strip and damage vinyl and laminate. Ammonia and bleach can damage a hardwood floor’s finish and discolor it. 

Is underlayment necessary for laminate and vinyl?

Underlayment is the part of your flooring that sits between the subfloor and the top layer. It provides a smooth, level surface, adds cushioning, and can offer moisture and sound insulation. 

You’ll want underlayment for laminate for the reduced noise and cushioning. For vinyl, it depends on the product. Some planks come with an attached pad, while others may need a thin underlayment for comfort and sound absorption. 

What’s the average lifespan of each flooring type?

Hardwood can last upwards of 50 years or more with refinishing and good care. Laminate lasts 15 to 25 years. Vinyl can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on the quality. 

Homeowners can replace pieces of their flooring, depending on the type installed. You can take damaged planks out and place a new one without too much difficulty. If you’ve invested in laminate or vinyl tile, those always allow for an easy swap. 

Reach Out to a Flooring Specialist in Lombard

When weighing hardwood vs laminate vs vinyl, the right decision depends on your budget, lifestyle, and design preferences. Hardwood is timeless, but you can achieve much of the same results with luxury vinyl. Talk to a flooring specialist in Lombard to find out which one is right for your home. 

Tolutions, Inc. can guide you in the right direction regarding your flooring needs. We’ll help you every step of the way through your renovation, from top to bottom. Drop us a line to ask about your options and learn more about our other services.