Laminate and carpet floorings are among the most popular choices when remodeling. But it is very hard for most people to decide on one. Stay tuned to learn more about the advantages and differences between these types of floorings.
Appearance
When discussing the appearance of carpet vs. laminate you are expressing your personal preference. Some people like carpet or vice versa, but most people will agree that laminate is what makes a house shine. Unlike carpet that can get dull and over time, laminate floorings are more durable and look brand new if maintained well. In the past, laminate was considered a cheap flooring, but nowadays the visual look of laminate flooring has enhanced dramatically.
It now can mimic the texture and look of more expensive floorings such as hardwood and stone, and It’s very hard for a naked eye to tell the difference between a high-quality laminate and wooden flooring just by looking.
Composition
Laminate flooring is typically made from high-quality fibreboard or wood particles. A laminar floor usually is composed form four layers, a stabilization layer, a layer of dense fiberboard, an applique layer on which a photograph of the pattern is printed, and a protective layer usually made from melamine.
Carpets come in different styles and materials. Most carpets are made from synthetic fibers produced from petroleum. Natural wool carpets are more expensive but provide most softness and durability, but they account for only 1% of the sale.
Cleanness And Allergy
Laminar flooring is easier to clean and maintain and tend to be a better option for families with allergic symptoms. On contrary, a study by Rug Doctor revealed that there is a high level of dirt, bacteria, pollen, and mites hidden in the carpets, suggesting that it’s very hard for most people to clean their carpet properly.
In Attempts to address the concern of allergen customers, most carpets are made from more earth-friendly or low-VOC (voltaic organic components) chemicals. So, when it comes to ease of cleaning and hygienic and hypoallergenic laminar flooring is the number one option.
Uptake
Both carpet and laminar flooring require at least once a week vacuuming and mopping to keep them clean and extend their lifespan. The good news is that laminate flooring doesn’t need any refinishing or buffing. On the other hand, carpets need to be steam cleaned at once a year to get rid of dirt, oil, and bacteria accumulated in the carpet. How often you use deep steaming depends on how messy are you and your family and whether you have children or pets.
Installation
Carpets can be installed in almost any type of subflooring, from concert to wood and hide surface irregularities. Carpets are usually fixed to the subfloor by nails and stamps, and seem are glued down. Although you can install carpets yourself, they generally require the professional service for installation.
Laminate flooring usually come in the tile form with tongues and grooves, making them a better candidate for Do It Yourself (DIY) projects. Except over carpets, laminate tiles can be installed on top of any existing floor. However, if special preparation of the subfloor is required, you may need the service of a professional installer.
Durability
With the right care and maintenance, carpet flooring can survive from ten years of tear and wear before fibers begin to fade. On the other hand, the lifespan of laminate flooring depends on product quality. A cheap low-end laminate can last fewer than three years. But a high-quality laminate tile is expected to endure up to 15 years. Moreover, it is easier to replace small parts of laminate flooring than it is carpet.
Comfort And Cold Feet
In terms of comfort, carpet provides an extra advantage over laminate flooring. Because of a padding layer at the bottom and a soft plush layer on top, people usually regard carpet as a more comfortable option. It also offers warmer feet during the winter and acts as a better sound and heat insulator. That isn’t to say that laminate flooring is not comfortable. Today, some companies manufacture laminate flooring with extra padding to make the product more comfortable and pleasant.
Cost
The range of costs for both products varies depending on quality and style. But laminate flooring is usually more budget-friendly having the quality and some other advantages. Carpets can usually be purchased at $2 to $15 per square feet, while laminate floors are installed for $2-$13 per square feet. A carpet made of natural wool is much expensive and may cost up to thousands of dollars for a high-quality hand-made carpet.
Environmental Considerations
The truth is that none of these floorings are as environmental-friendly as a natural hardwood or engineered wood, but natural products are expensive and most people cannot afford them. Nevertheless, laminate flooring can be easily recycled while the pile of carpeting is usually made of non-renewable material and a small amount of unhealthy VOC vapors may be released from carpets due to chemicals used in the manufacturing process. Laminate flooring is regarded as more durable and better for the family’s health and budget and our lovely planet, earth. Carpeting is more suitable for those that are going to remodel their house more frequently or want more comfortable and warmer feet.
