PVC vs Vinyl Flooring: What’s the Difference?
PVC vs VInyl are two types of flooring you have likely encountered in the process of choosing the best flooring solution for your home. These two terms are commonly used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same. Now, let’s explore the differences between PVC and vinyl flooring so you can decide what’s right for your space per your choice, design, comfort, budget, etc.
What is PVC Flooring?
PVC flooring is short for polyvinyl chloride floors. It’s a kind of plastic that appears in a wide range of products, including floor coverings. PVC flooring is a durable, water-resistant option that’s widely used in residential and commercial spaces.
Because PVC is a synthetic flooring, made from a combination of PVC resin, stabilizers, and plasticizers. It’s known to be tough, long-lasting, and relatively inexpensive. PVC flooring is available as tiles or sheets.
What is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is a general term that includes several kinds of synthetic flooring made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In fact, vinyl flooring is a subtype of PVC flooring. But vinyl flooring usually means luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) or luxury vinyl planks (LVP), the types that are common in homes now.
Vinyl flooring is a popular choice due to its durability, affordability, comfort, and ease of maintenance. It can imitate the appearance of hardwood, stone, or ceramic tiles.
Key Differences Between PVC and Vinyl Flooring
Now that we know what each type of flooring is, let’s dive into the differences. Here are some key factors to consider:
Composition
PVC Flooring: Tough and durable, PVC flooring is made from PVC resin, stabilizers, and plasticizers. It comes often in sheet or tile form.
Vinyl Flooring: Vinyl flooring is the main floor type most similar to laminate; it’s mostly PVC too, with some extra additives and layers, especially in the luxury versions (LVT or LVP) designed to look like wood or stone. This gives vinyl flooring more versatility for its texture and appearance.
Design Options
PVC Flooring: While PVC flooring can come in many colors and designs, it is generally a simpler look than luxury vinyl. It’s often seen in commercial spaces or rooms where function matters more than aesthetics.
Vinyl Flooring: Exotic patterns, including luxury grades, of vinyl flooring are available. You can even purchase vinyl flooring that simulates the appearance of wood, stone, or ceramic. Advanced vinyl products even offer textured finishes for a more lifelike look.
Durability and Maintenance
PVC Flooring: PVC Flooring is highly durable and works well in high-traffic areas. It’s also moisture-resistant, making it perfect for kitchens, bathrooms or basements. Nonetheless, it can be vulnerable to scratches and dents as time goes on.
Vinyl Flooring: Vinyl is equally durable and moisture-resistant. But luxury vinyl flooring (LVT/LVP) typically has a protective wear layer, making it even more resistant to scratches and dents. Vinyl floors can be cleaned easily; all they need is to be swept and mopped regularly.
Comfort
PVC Flooring: PVC flooring can be a little firmer underfoot, especially if it is the kind that comes in a thin sheet. That material is durable and tough but can be uncomfortable if you’re standing in one for too long.
Vinyl Flooring: Vinyl—particularly luxury vinyl—has a softer, more padded feeling. It’s soft to walk on and warmer underfoot, making it a better option for bedrooms or living areas.
Installation
PVC Flooring: PVC flooring comes in sheet and tile form, so it is versatile. Installation can be challenging, particularly with sheet vinyl, which needs careful cutting and fitting.
Vinyl flooring: Vinyl, particularly luxury vinyl planks (LVP) or tiles (LVT) in the click-lock form, is much easier to install. Some options out there are even plug-and-play, so you won’t have to pay for professional labor.
Cost
PVC: PVC is usually more affordable than (vinyl) flooring. Although it is inexpensive it might not have the same luxury looks or feel that some vinyl products can give.
Vinyl Flooring: Depending on type and quality, vinyl flooring is affordable. It should be noted that, while budget products do exist, LVT or LVP on the higher end can come at a higher cost than standard PVC flooring. But if you can afford the more expensive one, the extra durability and great looks might just make it worth it for you.
Environmental Impact
PVC Flooring: PVC is a type of plastic that requires more resources to make. But now there are more sustainable options, and some manufacturers are offering phthalate-free, recyclable PVC.
Vinyl Flooring: Vinyl floor samples have an eco facade much like PVC. Still, several brands have begun to carry more eco-friendly vinyl flooring, produced from recycled materials or that is PVC-free.
Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between PVC and vinyl flooring depends on your needs. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for areas that get a lot of traffic (like garages, kitchens, or commercial spaces), PVC flooring in Dubai is the right choice for you.
- If you want a more stylish and comfortable flooring solution with a variety of designs, textures, and durability, then vinyl flooring, particularly luxury vinyl, would be a better fit for you.
Conclusion
PVC flooring and vinyl flooring are both synthetic flooring types constructed from similar materials, but they serve different purposes. PVC floors generally offer a more utilitarian, budget-level product, whereas vinyl floors have great design flexibility, comfort, and durability. Based on your requirements and budget, you will need to choose between the two for your home or office.
Please contact us for expert assistance if you if you want to learn more about flooring options or help with installation!
