Choosing the right flooring for your project
When it comes to choosing commercial flooring there’s more to consider than just visual looks and appeal. Vinyl flooring and laminate are vastly used by many commercial buildings throughout Melbourne. Preferred not just for their cost-efficient alternative to solid timber (hardwood) or other types of floors, but also their superior benefits depending on the environment.
Here, we take a closer look at the differences between laminate and vinyl flooring and which option is best suited to your project.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is a synthetic material, commonly used where moisture accumulates. Wet areas, bathrooms, even in hospitals and other similar environments. Vinyl stands up against other flooring types largely for its ability to be used almost anywhere. It’s able to stand up against high levels of moisture due to its high resistance and offers excellent durability.
Vinyl is made from polyvinyl chloride resins (PVC), that is melted down and combined with various compounds, stabilizers, and fungicides. This is followed by multiple wear layers that are bonded, and its (decorative) print being applied, along with a layer of zero-wax polyurethane. This provides that long-lasting finish, whilst making it both resilient and durable.
The depth in styles, colours or patterns, adds greater versatility, along with a choice of different vinyl options.
Types of vinyl options:
- Vinyl sheets (rolled into sheets)
- Vinyl tiles (usually cut into 6, 9 or 12-inch squares)
- Vinyl planks (similar to laminate planks)
From here, there’s a vast range of patterns, colours and printed designs to choose from. Even so far as being about to produce a realistic surface texture. Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP) has become widely popular. While having similar looks and installation methods as laminate planks, they’re easier to install and exude aesthetic appeal. Making them an attractive option capable of complementing any environment.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Vinyl Flooring
Pros
- 100% Moisture resistant
- Low Maintenance
- Stain resistance
- Commercial-grade wear layer
- Easy to install
- Cost-efficient
- Highly durable
- Choice of styles and designs
Cons
- Tough to remove (due to adhesive and glue)
- Inconsistent quality
- Non-biodegradable
- Limited UV resistance (depending on quality and wear layers)
- Harsh or toxic chemicals (used in some vinyl flooring)
- Discolouration (depending on quality)
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is also made up of synthetic layers, or wood byproducts that are bonded with resins. This is topped off with a print, usually a pattern of wood, or even stone. The beauty of timber laminate is how well it can evoke a realistic appearance of timber. It also comes in many styles and colours that can perfectly match any style or environment. Aside from displaying such a close resemblance to real timber flooring, what makes it so popular is its durability. Through proper maintenance, it can last for many years whilst retaining its original appearance.
They come in a range of widths and thicknesses. Thickness for most laminate flooring planks usually ranges from 6 mm to 12 mm but can be as much as 15mm in thickness. The quality and lifespan of laminate vary, like with any product, depending on several factors. Each brand will argue superiority over the performance or quality of its product. For laminate flooring, this is usually determined by its thickness and materials used by different manufacturers. Its vast range of styles allows for an extremely versatile surface that’s become highly sought out across many commercial buildings.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Laminate Flooring
Pros
- Natural timber look
- Low Maintenance
- Stain resistance
- Cost-efficient
- Commercial-grade wear
- Light-weight
- Easy to install (click and snap lock systems)
- Durability
- Choice of styles and designs
Cons
- Limited resistance to moisture
- Synthetic and unnatural feel
- Limited UV resistance (depending on quality and wear layers)
- Contains non-biodegradable plastics (wear layer)
- Inconsistent quality (depending on quality)
The Verdict: Summary
Both are excellent choices. Whether it’s commercial carpet, dual-bond or even timber, installing the flooring surface best suited to your environment is more critical than reaching the desired aesthetics. Not only will you achieve durability and lifespan, but also the best performance. Safety is paramount. Therefore, it’s important to select flooring that offers the best health and safety outcomes for everyone. This includes meeting important, mandatory safety standards outlined by the National Construction Code (NCC).
At Floorcon, we provide expert advice in Melbourne on all your commercial flooring requirements. We offer a full range of vinyl flooring and laminate options to suit all environments. From supply and installation, we’ll ensure your project is delivered right, from start to completion.
Contact us to discuss your next flooring solution for your project.
