A well-designed house features not only well-chosen fixtures, furniture, and accessories, but also appropriate flooring that suits your needs. Flooring has a great impact on the look and feel of a space, so it’s important to give careful consideration to the material that greets your feet. Vinyl and laminate flooring are two of the most popular options due to their durability, versatility, and reasonable price compared to hardwood flooring. These flooring types are similar but also have distinct differences to consider. When making a flooring decision, homeowners in Holmen, WI, rely on the expertise of Interior Designs Inc.

Here are the main differences between vinyl and laminate flooring:

• Construction: Vinyl flooring is made of plastic, while laminate is made of a wood product. For bathrooms and other areas that are prone to moisture, vinyl is preferable to laminate because it is more resistant to water damage. On the other hand, laminate floors have an attractive wooden appearance that's similar to hardwood but less expensive.

• Appearance & Feel: Both types of flooring are highly versatile in terms of design — laminate can look like hardwood, while vinyl can simulate ceramic, marble, and stone. Laminate has a better grip, so it is ideal for high-traffic areas. However, some varieties of vinyl have a slip-resistant covering that can make them safer for children and older family members.

• Installation: Both flooring types are easy to install. Although sheet vinyl, which is purchased in large rolls, can be a challenge for do-it-yourself homeowners, there is a plank version that is much easier to install. Laminate flooring requires a foam underlayment for leveling and moisture protection. It also must be cut using a handsaw with an ultra-fine blade.

Vinyl and laminate flooring are excellent options for almost any home. They are part of the wide variety of flooring materials offered by Interior Designs Inc. Call their flooring design experts at (608) 526-3386 to discuss your options, or visit their website to view a complete list of their flooring products and services.