Quote:
Originally Posted by Tvflguy
I am planning to remove carpeting in one bedroom due to allergies etc. And planning to either install myself vinyl plank or laminate flooring.
Would appreciate some input and recommendations before we shop at Lowe’s this weekend. I have installed laminate flooring before, never vinyl plank. I assume that it’s much easier.
Priority for us is-
1 Appearance
2 Ease of install.
3 Cost.
4 Durability.
TIA
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I installed laminate in our previous home and vinyl plank in our villages home and definitely would go with the vinyl if I were to do another home.
1. Appearance - This is a matter of taste and depends on the quality of the flooring you purchase. Personally, I like the look of vinyl better.
2. Ease of Install - I think the laminate wins this one. The thicker and rigid boards makes it easier to line up the grooves and click them in place. Also, the thicker size makes it easier to use the tap boards to lock them in place.
3. Cost - Quality laminate is about a dollar per sf cheaper than quality vinyl.
4. Durability - This is based only on my own personal experience, but I've found that vinyl retains its look longer than laminate. Also, if there is any chance of water flooding the area (dishwasher or washing machine hose bursting, etc..), the laminate would be destroyed and have to be replaced. You can take the vinyl up and let it and the floor dry, then put it back down.
Whether you decide to go with laminate or vinyl, I would suggest checking other dealers as well as Lowes. We purchased ours at Lumber Liquidator (now LLFlooring) and think we got a better product at a lower price. We also shopped at Home Depot and Floor & Decor.