When it comes to durable and waterproof flooring, homeowners generally have three options: artificial wood, laminated board, or vinyl. These are all good choices, but the most suitable choice for you depends on many factors - here are some things to consider.
Advantages and disadvantages of engineered wood
Engineering wood has strong resistance to moisture or dampness, as it includes plywood backboards and durable decorative layers. Therefore, engineered wood is unlikely to bend or peel off. Compared to reinforced flooring, engineered wood is closer to hardwood, which some claim makes its appearance more pleasing. However, this appearance may be expensive. The price of engineered wood is much higher than that of reinforced flooring or vinyl, and is usually almost as expensive as natural hardwood.
Advantages and disadvantages of laminated hardwood
The difference between laminated hardwood and engineered hardwood is that laminated hardwood is made from pressed wood and only contains laminated wood images at the top. Therefore, it is thinner and less durable than engineered wood. Laminated wood is also more susceptible to moisture damage, so if you live in flood prone areas, laminated wood should not be used. The fact that it is thinner does bring it an advantage, which is that it is more cost-effective than engineered wood. Therefore, it is an ideal choice for people with limited budgets or who may plan to sell their homes in the near future.
Advantages and disadvantages of vinyl flooring
Vinyl flooring has the strongest moisture resistance among these three types of flooring and can usually withstand prolonged standing water. Compared to engineered hardwood or laminated hardwood, vinyl flooring has more styles and color patterns. Nevertheless, many people still feel that vinyl flooring gives a sense of industrialization, causing the room to feel cold and stiff. This is especially true when placed in the basement living room or bedroom, as vinyl is considered specifically for use in kitchens and bathrooms. Its cost is comparable to laminated wood, and in some cases may even be cheaper.
Other things to consider
Proper preparation of flooring is equally important as selecting suitable materials. Before starting, the basement floor must be laid flat; Otherwise, the material may not adhere firmly. You must check in advance to ensure that your basement is completely waterproof. Even well sealed basements can be vulnerable to flooding, which is why you may need to consider installing Jadelight. Jadelight provides a waterproof base for your flooring materials, so if the basement is flooded, water will flow into the drainage ditch from below.
If you have difficulty making a decision, remember that you don't have to be limited to one type of flooring. You can use engineered wood in one area, laminate in another area, and vinyl in another area to design the most suitable design for your needs and lifestyle.