Both laminate and tile are the most popular types of flooring, but there are certain differences between the two that can affect which type is ideally suited for your household depending on your requirements.
Let’s say it like this, Laminate flooring is an optimum option if you have a specific budget however, on the other hand, tile is perfect for moisture-prone spaces like restrooms.
To make the selection process easy for you, we will compare the laminate Vs tile flooring so you can make an informed flooring investment.
What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is composed of a wide range of layers that include a decorative layer, a transparent top layer, a backing layer, and more. The decorative layer of this flooring has a high-resolution image that looks like other materials such as hardwood and natural stone.
However, laminate flooring is neither durable nor long-lasting. It is non-resistant to environmental elements like heat, humidity, as well as moisture. In comparison to Laminate vs tile for home, laminate flooring is cost-effective and comes under your budget.
What is Tile Flooring?
It is also comprised of various materials such as glass, cement, porcelain, and more. It also comes in a wide range of shapes, patterns, and configurations, while offering a lot of flexibility.
Unlike laminate, this type of flooring is well-resistant to all environmental elements. In laminate flooring vs tile, tile flooring has a longer life span and durability. But these advantages also mean that this flooring is high in cost and might exceed your budget.
Laminate Vs Tile Flooring – A Comparison
To make the selection process easy for you, we will compare the laminate Vs tile flooring so you can make an informed flooring investment:
1. Installation
Laminate flooring is one of the easiest flooring to install. This flooring is installed on the topmost side of the vapour barrier to prevent it from moisture. A tongue and groove system is used for installing it. No technical skills or intricate tools are needed to install this type of flooring.
Whereas, tile flooring installation requires more exertion and work. A special set of tools is required for the completion of tile installation. The installation of tiles is done on the mortar bed, and the grout is used for glueing them together.
This process requires labour, it’s messy and needs a minimum of 2 days to be completed, doesn’t matter how small the project is.
2. Appearance
Laminate flooring comes in a wide variety of colours and sizes. It gives a modish and elite appearance and is comfortable while you walk on it.
However, when it comes to tiles, you have infinite options to choose from. But in comparison to laminate flooring benefits, tiles are uncomfortable to walk on, cold, and hard on the feet.
3. Cleaning and Maintenance
Laminate floors do not tend to have any kind of grout lines so it is easier to clean them. Either sweeping or vacuuming the floor or mopping it with a little bit of water can do wonders for you.
While cleaning tiles is strenuous. The grout lines catch a lot of dirt and filth, which can be difficult to clean. This type of flooring requires thorough cleaning daily.
You can also check out our guide on fixing issues of laminate flooring.
4. Durability
Laminate flooring is not as durable as tile flooring, but if properly taken care of, it can last for at least 20-25 years. This flooring cannot absorb a lot of water, so ensure not to install them in wet areas.
However, tile flooring is exceedingly durable. If installed and taken care of properly, they can last for at least 75-100 years.
5. Cost and Value
When it comes to the cost of laminate vs tile for a home, there is not much difference. A laminate strip costs somewhere between AED 7.35 to AED 25.71, whereas a tile strip usually comes somewhere between AED 7.35 to AED 33.06.
The prices of both floorings might be similar to one another, but their installation and maintenance costs are different. The cost of laminate flooring installation is around AED 7.35 to AED 22.04 per square foot, whereas the cost of tile flooring installation is around AED 18.37 to AED 44.08 per square foot.
6. Water, Heat, and Environment
Environmental conditions play an important role in the overall appearance and longevity of your new flooring.
In comparison to tile flooring, laminate flooring is not resistant to water, heat, and other environmental conditions. If exposed to moisture, it can entirely deteriorate, swell, or shrink due to temperature fluctuations. For this purpose, it is highly recommended not to install laminate flooring in moisture-prone areas.
On the other side, tile flooring is excessively resistant to water, heat, and the environment. It’s completely waterproof if sealed properly, making it a perfect fit for bathrooms and basements. Neither the shape nor the quality will change due to temperature changes.
Final Words: Which Flooring is The Best?
Whether you choose laminate flooring or tile flooring, what’s perfect for your home is entirely dependent upon a few factors like your style, budget, or space. To find the best option, you need to consider Laminate flooring vs tile flooring based on the aforementioned factors.
If you need advice on the best flooring options for your home, Chic Floors is here to help. Our flooring experts are just a call away, and ready to assist you in finding the flooring solution that brings your vision to life.
