Laminate or vinyl tile. Laminate or tile: all the pros and cons. What is the difference between vinyl laminate and PVC tiles

With the choice of flooring is faced by every person without exception, who started the repair. The choice will consist of several positions in any case, even if there is a very small estimate. From high-quality and at the same time inexpensive materials, PVC tiles and laminate should be distinguished. However, before making a choice, you should consider these materials in a little more detail. So which is better - laminate or PVC tiles, we suggest talking in our article.

Before starting repair work of any complexity, you should consider the exact list building materials that will be needed for the implementation of the plan. Many are faced with the question: laminate or PVC - which is better to choose in a given situation. This choice of flooring is due to the presence of numerous positive feedback and no less favorable indicators that speak in favor of these materials. Cost will play an important role, but you should not bypass factors such as durability and quality.

Laminate is a type of coating that consists of several layers at the same time. In the manufacturing process, it is customary to use special cardboard and paper. In some cases, steel may also be used in the manufacturing process. The lining of the outer layer of the material is carried out by means of plastic film. In some cases, it can be replaced with foil. It is these materials that are used to give the coating certain external characteristics. Thus, you can create a high-quality imitation of tiles, wood or any other material.

The composition of the laminate

There are many varieties of laminate, and all types will be divided based on indicators such as density and quality.

Melamine resin is used to create an incredibly durable top layer. The carrier layer will be made of ICE or fiberboard. Thus, it is possible to achieve an optimal indicator of durability, moisture resistance and strength. The bottom layer is a matter consisting of resins, cardboard and paper, which it impregnates. A water-repellent layer is created on both sides of the laminate.

Flaws:

One of the weakest points in such coverage are seams. Provided that the technological moments used during laying were violated, damage to the laminate will begin immediately after moisture gets inside the seam. The top layer is covered with a special water-repellent film. Even when using microfiber, the surface will dry for an extremely long time.

Upper layer also refers to the disadvantages of the laminate, as it is extremely sensitive to a humid environment. So, it can be extremely easily deformed if you do not use special vacuum cleaners. If a large amount of water gets on its surface, it will begin to deform.

Material advantages:

hygiene index. Dirt and bacteria will not get inside the material. Stains are easy to remove, and cleaning is quick and convenient.

No stains on its surface will linger for a long time. Wine, coffee and other colored drinks will not stain the laminate surface.

Ability to withstand significant temperature changes. Compared to other materials, its surface will not ignite if a spark from a fireplace, a cigarette butt or a candle falls on it.

High strength index. The mechanical load of such a surface is not capable of causing harm. The claws of pets, furniture legs and heels will not leave marks on its surface. However, manufacturers still recommend using special nozzles on the legs, which will not allow the material to bend over time.

Installing such panels is not difficult. It is customary to use the tongue-and-groove method in order to fold the material on the floor surface. If necessary, dismantling is possible. Such panels can be latched with locks or selected manually. However, locks are still considered more practical. With their help, damage can be avoided.

Laying laminate

It is worth paying attention to the fact that the top layer is characterized by some electrostaticity, which strongly attracts dust. However, this only applies to cheap materials. Modern models of such a flaw are deprived. The cost of parquet and laminate is almost identical. It is imperative to lay a lining under the laminate layer, since in this way it is possible to provide the necessary sound insulation.

PVC coating, which belongs to the category of flooring, is one of the most budgetary solutions for decorating residential premises. If the choice of coating is yet to be, then you should first familiarize yourself with the disadvantages and undeniable advantages of this material. PVC or polyvinyl chloride tile is a type of linoleum, which can be made both in the form of a rectangle and a square. You can purchase both material with an adhesive base, and self-adhesive.

PVC tile consists of the following layers:

protective layer;
polyurethane layer;
drawing;
basics.

PVC tile structure

Thus, there may be more layers. In some cases, you can purchase tiles with a thickness of only 1.5-3 mm. Its main advantage is that the pattern will not change even after significant abrasion of the surface.

For installation, you will need to first prepare the work surface by cleaning and leveling the base. You can also use plywood or screed as a base. However, thin material requires an absolutely flat surface. If this is not corrected, then after a year, all the irregularities will come to the surface.

PVC tiles

The composition of the material includes almost the same materials that are used in the manufacture of linoleum. Such a type of coating as PVC tiles can also be used in the design of underfloor heating.

Pros and cons of PVC tiles

Advantages	Flaws
No shrinkage	Solutions containing acetone can damage the coating
This coating belongs to the category of moisture resistant	The maximum allowable temperature of the warm floor (with its arrangement) will be + 25 ° С
Easy Care	Service life will be 10 years
Any flat and dry surface can be used as a base	Synthetic materials are used as the basis
Relatively easy repair of individual elements if necessary
Huge range of products in today's market
Ease of implementation installation work

Which is better - laminate or PVC tiles?

Below are a few features to choose from. floor coverings, and compare the laminate and PVC tiles according to these criteria.

Most manufacturers provide certain guarantees to cover their own production, however, these standards apply only to the material, the installation of which was carried out without any violations. Only in this case, the material will last at least ten years. If you regularly move furniture on its surface, or use office chairs equipped with wheels, this period will be significantly reduced. Thus, the surface will quickly become covered with scuffs, dents and scratches, which will lead to its rapid deterioration.

Scratches on pvc tiles

PVC tile is an extremely wear-resistant material that does not tolerate mechanical stress and moisture. Its service life is about a quarter of a century, and in conditions of careful care, this period can be significantly increased.

Scratches on the laminate

The average life of a laminate is about 15 years. Naturally, a lot depends on its class and location - it can wear out in 5 years, or it can last all 30.

In the process of wet cleaning, the surface of the laminate should be handled with extreme care, even if we are talking about moisture-resistant coatings. If moisture gets on the locks or under the boards, then damage to the material is inevitable. For cleaning, you will need special tools, the cost of which is different.

Water bulging laminate

PVC material is not afraid of flooding, even when emergency(for example, if the neighbors flooded). Care is not difficult, since you can use the usual detergents.

With basic skills in working with finishing materials of this type, it is not difficult to install a laminate. You will need a standard set of tools. However, the work surface must first be leveled and the substrate prepared. When laying, the specifics of the installed locks should be taken into account. Otherwise, the surface will begin to creak quickly and subsequently deform. Laminate is laid only on a leveled floor.

Laying laminate

The technology used for laying vinyl and quartz material should not cause any difficulties, and anyone can handle such work. PVC tiles will be glued to the working base or assembled according to the principle of the designer, with special locks. The material is easy to cut. The base also needs to be leveled.

Laying self-adhesive PVC tiles

If a section made of laminate is damaged, then the damaged board can be replaced. To do this, you will need to partially disassemble the coating in order to get to the damaged bar.

Parsing laminate

If an element made of a vinyl or quartz coating that is glued to the screed is damaged, there is no need to disassemble the nearby tiles. In the process, you will need a building hair dryer to heat up the damaged board. With the help of a spatula, the area is hooked and easily removed. The working surface is cleaned, a layer of adhesive mass and a new PVC tile is applied to it. Thus, the coating is restored.

Replacing the plank of PVC tiles

If locks were used during installation (lock method), then it is not necessary to completely disassemble the coating, in this case the disassembly process will be similar to a laminate. To begin with, you should consult with the manufacturer, who will tell you how to extract only specific boards.

When using laminate flooring, any, even the slightest damage, will become immediately noticeable. The sounds that will occur during the use of parquet will be heard even in neighboring rooms. In this case, private life will have to be forgotten forever.

But the PVC surface will have excellent soundproofing properties. Quartz-vinyl coating will level the noise level of 19 dB. It is worth paying attention to the fact that an indicator of 55 dB is allowed throughout the day.

Both types of flooring have excellent decorative performance. At a cost, you can find both an acceptable laminate and high-quality PVC boards. However, you should focus on such parameters as comfort and practicality, because only in this way the coating will justify all expectations and costs.

So what is the answer to the age-old question: which is better - laminate or PVC boards? It is impossible to answer unambiguously, because in each case different parameters will be considered. In any case, it is necessary to first consider all the negative and positive aspects of the coverage you like, which should be based on such points:

Ease of aftercare. A clean finish is essential. If there is no time for daily cleaning, then the coating should be one that requires minimal maintenance.

Ease of installation work. Possibility to save family budget is a priority for many, so it is recommended to do the styling yourself.

Environmental friendliness. This indicator does not include polymers, however, neither tiles nor laminate can be made without its use. You should pay attention to the presence of an environmental certificate, which is provided only to certified products.

Estimate. It is recommended to give preference to a more expensive material, the service life of which will be calculated in decades. In this case, carry out repair work every year is not necessary. Frequent repairs are carried out only by hotels or immediately before the sale of real estate.

Purpose of the premises. Its permeability and frequency of washing will result in resistance to damp environments and sudden temperature changes.

In general, PVC tiles have a number of advantages over laminate. It is easier to care for it, it scratches less, has better sound insulation. However, on average, such a product costs a little more than a laminate flooring, so it is worth looking at the family budget.

Laminate or PVC tiles: which is better

: both are affordable, similar in name and appearance, are comparable in terms of environmental friendliness and other parameters, but which of them is still better for the consumer in terms of practicality, durability and other performance properties? Let's do a little comparative analysis.

Price

For most buyers, the issue of price is decisive, so let's start with it.

PVC tiles can be bought in the price range from 990 to 2850 rubles per square meter. m, while the range of prices for laminate flooring looks much wider: 670-3290 rubles per sq. m. m. Thus, on average, the prices for PVC tiles and laminate are comparable, but if you are looking for an absolute minimum price, then we recommend that you pay attention to the laminate.

0:1 in favor of laminate, total score 0:1

moisture resistance

Everyone knows the behavior of the laminate in a humid environment: with prolonged contact with water, it swells, so it is not intended for laying in bathrooms and other rooms with high dampness. At the same time, polyvinyl chloride, which forms the basis of PVC tiles, is insoluble in water, so it can be used for laying in rooms with high humidity.

1:0 in favor of PVC tiles, total score 1:1

Resistance to aggressive environment

Not only is polyvinyl chloride resistant to acids, alkalis, alcohol, fats, salt solutions, but also the top polyurethane layer that PVC tiles are coated with has almost the same properties. It easily withstands temperature fluctuations in the range of -60 ... +80 ° C, and due to its durability it is used not only in the decoration of residential and commercial premises, but also in industry and the automotive industry.

For the most part, laminate cannot boast of such properties (or you will have to pay completely different money for it), so we give victory in this industry entirely to PVC tiles, which is especially true if you choose flooring for the kitchen, garage or other a room where contact with aggressive media is unavoidable.

1:0 in favor of PVC tiles, total score 2:1

Ease of installation

Both laminate and PVC tiles can be both click and glue joints, but vinyl tiles can also be self-adhesive with a reusable adhesive layer, which greatly simplifies its installation, and it offers much more options for choice. , so we again have to give the victory in this category to her.

1:0 in favor of PVC tiles, total score 3:1

Thickness

The thickness of the floor covering affects many physical and mechanical parameters during its operation, including strength and thermal insulation, which means it is directly related to the comfort and service life of the product. The minimum thickness of the laminate is 7 mm, while for PVC tiles this is most often its maximum thickness (for comparison, for a laminate, it can reach up to 12.3 mm).

1:0 in favor of laminate, total score 3:2

Manufacturer's Warranty

By the way, about the service life. Many manufacturers give a lifetime warranty on laminate, which you will never find in warranty obligations for PVC tiles. Of course, a lifetime guarantee is given only for high-quality laminate of 33 and 34 service classes and only when it is used in residential premises for its intended purpose, but you will not find such a privilege for PVC tiles even in the case of 43 load class, so laminate becomes the absolute champion here.

0:1 in favor of laminate, total score 3:3

Design, color options and chamfering

Manufacturers of both laminate and PVC tiles produce extensive collections of both floor coverings, where you can easily choose the right shade, color, imitation of any kind of wood, stone, concrete and other natural textures. In this regard, both coatings offer equal opportunities.

And even the chamfer popular with the consumer is found in both laminate and PVC tiles, but in the first case it can be either 2- or 4-sided, having a V- or U-shaped bevel, including also a micro-bevel, and in the second case these options are most often limited to the standard 4V bevel. But most importantly, in the laminate, the bevel can be found even in cheap collections, while in vinyl tiles it is found only in expensive premium collections.

0:1 in favor of laminate, total score 3:4

Coating care

Laminate requires careful care: first of all, it is afraid of a large amount of moisture, so wet cleaning of the laminate is limited. Vinyl flooring is not afraid of exposure to water, so regular pvc tile care easier.

1:0 in favor of PVC tiles, total score 4:4

Environmental friendliness

Both coatings are not environmentally friendly: in each of them, to one degree or another, there are harmful substances. In vinyl tiles, burning PVC releases dioxins and other carcinogens. The composition of the laminate and does contain synthetic resins.

However, in both cases, manufacturers guarantee the E1 emission class for their products. This means that the level of emissions of harmful substances into the air does not exceed 0.12 mg per 1 cubic meter. m of air, which is absolutely safe for humans.

0:0 - draw, total score 4:4

maintainability

In most cases, damaged laminate flooring is easier to repair. For local repairs, special markers, wax pencils and other means for restoring the coating have been created. In addition, the laminate floor can always be reassembled again thanks to a convenient locking connection, hiding damage. At the moment, repairing PVC tiles is more difficult, especially if an adhesive joint was used.

0:1 in favor of laminate, total score 4:5

And yet, which is better: PVC tiles or laminate?

As you can see from the review, when choosing between two floor coverings, the laminate won by a small margin of one point. Parameters such as resistance to scratches, impacts, smoldering cigarettes, hairpins, UV radiation can be found in both floor coverings depending on the collection and or tile.

Nevertheless, the victory of the laminate here is very conditional, since the final set of performance characteristics of the flooring will depend on a number of factors that are individual in each case. So, a consumer who has chosen PVC tiles for the kitchen or corridor, where frequent wet cleaning is required, will be no less happy than the one who prefers laminate in the office or living room, if only because it is cheaper and can be laid in the deck design style, thanks to the double-sided chamfer.

When choosing between them, the main thing to remember is that the laminate is closer in structure to a wooden coating than PVC tile, but it loses significantly to it in terms of moisture resistance.

Thus, having made a comparative analysis, we came to the conclusion that both coatings are worthy of their price category and, in general, are not inferior to each other. However, you need to understand that if high loads on the floor, aggressive environments and other difficult operating conditions are planned, then it is better to choose a more expensive floor covering in each of the categories where it usually shows its best characteristics.

When it comes to renovations, people begin to torment themselves with questions. Which is better: PVC tiles or laminate? And even on initial stage repair, not everyone understands what PVC tiles (or PVC panels) are.

PVC panels are pieces of linoleum. Unlike laminate, linoleum is less slippery. Its thickness is 2 millimeters, while the thickness of the laminate is 8.

cover the floor PVC panels easy - just fix them on the finished surface. Laminate is installed in a different, more complex way - using a special substrate.

When choosing a laminate or tile, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of both materials. You can read them in detail in this article.

Laminate flooring is made up of several layers. The composition of the laminate includes paper and cardboard. In rare cases, steel is added to the composition. From the outside, the laminate is covered with foil or film, which are responsible for color solutions coatings. You can buy laminate flooring that mimics wood, tile, or other flooring.

Laminate happens different quality and thickness. Thanks to the melamine resin, the first layer of material is protected from damage. DPS and ICE formed the basis of the carrier layer. He is responsible for the reliability of the material and its resistance to moisture. bottom layer made of paper and cardboard, which are treated with resin. The edges of the laminate coating are treated with a special water-repellent agent.

What are the benefits of laminate flooring?

Easy installation. Tiles are installed in accordance with the tenon-groove system. If there is a need for dismantling, then disassembling the plates is not difficult. This is ensured by the locks of the laminate boards, which snap into one another. The locks minimize the possibility of damaging the panels.
Strength. Whatever load is placed on the laminate, the coating will withstand it. Animal claws, chair legs, heels - laminate is not afraid of anything. But in order to protect the floor and avoid sagging, it is better to equip the legs of chairs and tables with linings.
Temperature resistance. When a burning object hits the laminate, the coating will not be covered with fire, unlike wood.
Stain resistance. Did a drop of fat get on the coating? It doesn't matter - just wipe it with a cloth to get rid of the stain forever.
Hygiene. Laminate flooring is protected from contaminants. It can be easily washed with a cloth.

Cons of laminate flooring

Moisture sensitive. When cleaning, it is highly recommended not to use a washing vacuum cleaner. When water hits the material, its surface becomes deformed.
Seams. If the laying of the laminate was carried out incorrectly, then water will constantly get into the seams, causing the material to deteriorate. First of all, you will exfoliate upper layer.
Dries for a long time. Due to the water-repellent film that covers the top layer, the laminate dries for a long time after wet cleaning.
Attracts dust. Due to the electrostatic properties of the laminate, dust constantly settles on the floor. But if you buy modern types of laminate, then such a flaw can be avoided. Their cost does not differ from the cost of parquet flooring.

PVC tiles: characteristics and features

PVC panels are vinyl tiles that are made from polyvinyl chloride layers. The first layer is presented as an image, and the bottom one provides protection. PVC panels are quite easy to install and use. You can install panels in a monolithic way. You don't need any special tools for this. PVC panels are durable. At the same time, the chance that they will have time to deform is quite low. The only thing that must be observed during installation is the evenness of the panels. Also make sure the surface is flat. You can make a screed or lay plywood.

What are the advantages of PVC panels?

· Purity. This coating can be applied in any place: in schools, kindergartens, organizations. PVC panels are not dangerous for people and objects.

· Moisture resistance. If water hits the floor, the coating will not begin to deform. You can safely use PVC panels in wet rooms. And if a flood occurs in the room, then PVC tiles will remain in the same state.

· Temperature resistant. No matter how hard you try - PVC coating will never catch fire. Moreover, the coating will not emit toxic substances that are harmful to humans.

· Durability. PVC tiles are one of the most wear-resistant materials. You can install with confidence in a factory, office where a lot of people usually walk.

· Durability. The coating is not afraid of blows. You won't find cracks even if you hit hard.

· Noise isolation. Any ambient sounds will not distract you from work or rest.

· Quick repair. If one of the tiles is damaged, then it can be easily replaced with another. You do not need to dismantle the entire coating.

· Fast and easy. Installation of the coating is carried out in a few hours and without much effort.

· No static electricity. This is one of the advantages of PVC tiles over laminate flooring.

· Combination with heating. If you want to install underfloor heating, it won't obstruct the laminate or change its appearance.

Cons of PVC tiles

· Artificial components. PVC panels do not consist of natural ingredients. You need to be extremely careful when installing panels.

Laminate or PVC tiles - the choice depends on the preferences and needs of people. Today, each store has both materials in stock, the range of which is quite wide. Each type of coverage differs in price and quality. The higher the cost, the better the material will be.

If you are thinking of saving on coverage, then this is not really good idea. It is possible that after a short time you will have to change the coating again. If you are not sure that you can install the flooring, then feel free to contact the experts. They are equipped with special equipment that will allow you to do the job efficiently. Experts will make an accurate calculation of the material that is needed to cover the floor. Laminate installation will cost more than PVC paneling. But the price is justified: laminate flooring looks more attractive than tiles. But it will also take a lot of effort.

Since laminate and PVC panels are easy to install, you can do it yourself. You do not need to study in a special institution for this. All that is needed is to follow the instructions that come with the purchased material.

Of the entire residential interior, the floor is subjected to the maximum load. Furniture is moved along it, adults walk, children run. The floor covering must meet the needs and age characteristics of all family members. A beautiful, inexpensive, durable and safe floor is the dream of any housewife. IN last years dominate this area artificial materials. Comparison of their parameters allows you to determine what is better to choose for an apartment: PVC tiles or laminate.

What is laminate

Laminate is a multi-layer structure based on high-density fibreboard (HDF). Its structure is represented by four layers:

The lower stabilizing one is necessary to increase the rigidity and protect the fiberboard from deformation and moisture penetration from below. Sometimes contains a backing to improve soundproofing properties.
The main one is a board made of wood components and surpasses wood in terms of strength characteristics. Here is the lock for connection constituent parts between themselves.
Decorative - paper with melamine impregnation and a photo pattern imitating wood, stone or ceramics. Covered with a film to protect against moisture from the floor surface.
The upper contains particles of corundum and is designed to protect against mechanical and chemical influences. Its strength and size determine the resistance of the floor structure to wear and its service life. The effect of a natural substance is created by embossing.

All layers are pressed into a monolith under high pressure and temperature.

What is PVC tile

PVC tiles are a type of modern artificial flooring. Currently popular products with several layers:

The base provides strength and stability and contains foamed polyvinyl chloride. Its roughness contributes to reliable adhesion to the screed.
Balance - a reinforcing fiberglass mesh resists deformation and provides the necessary rigidity.
The main one consists of PVC, vinyl, filler with plasticizers. In quartz-vinyl products, it contains sand with the addition of vinyl. This increases moisture resistance, soundproofing, durability, shock absorption and creates comfort when walking.
A drawing, texture is applied to the decorative.
Protective film made of polyurethane or aluminum oxide with anti-slip effect and embossing increases the life of the floor.

What is the difference between vinyl laminate and PVC tiles

The structure of vinylam is identical to that of PVC:

the base, the base with fiberglass and the layer with additives in the form of mineral chips or quartz are composed of vinyl or PVC;
decorative pattern imitates wooden parquet, marble or stone in appearance and feel when walking;
protective film consists of polyurethane, ceramic filler and a component to neutralize the effect sun rays.

The difference between vinyl laminate and PVC tiles is the installation method:

The elements have a locking connection and can be laid quickly and efficiently. If necessary, they can be disassembled or a damaged panel replaced. Vinyl tile is located on a flat non-hygroscopic substrate: cement-sand screed, plywood. Her optimum thickness- 1-2 mm, with a larger value, the load on the interlocks will increase.
PVC tiles are produced self-adhesive: you only need to remove the film and press the element to the floor.
Another variation involves applying glue to a horizontal plane and then laying parts on it. The surface in both cases will be smooth, waterproof and durable, but the possibility of replacing a separate section is laborious and is performed using a building hair dryer.

When further comparing the parameters, both types of products will be considered collectively as a vinyl product.

Comparison of material characteristics

The choice between HDF and vinyl flooring can be made after comparing their basic properties.

moisture resistance

The indicator depends on the density of the panel: the higher it is, the less moisture the substance absorbs.

Polyvinyl chloride belongs to waterproof materials and is able to withstand prolonged contact with water, does not absorb it and does not deform at the joints of parts. The indicator is 100%.

Products based on fiberboard are characterized by low moisture resistance. The coefficient of swelling upon contact with water within 24 hours should not exceed 18% as a rule. Lamellas with plastic instead of fiberboard practically do not absorb water, but their price is too high.

wear resistance

Depends on the quality and thickness of the protective layer and is determined by one of the classes. This is a relative concept, experts advise focusing on the manufacturer.

low - 31 (AC3);
medium - 32 (AC4);
high - 33 (AC5-AC-6).

PVC tiles more resistant to scratches, dents, cracks. Not damaged by alkalis, acids, mineral oils.

Afraid of solvents based on acetone, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, contact with rubber. The 5th generation products are protected from UV rays.

HDF Board can be damaged by water, alkali, acids, abrasive materials. Paint stains are removed with white spirit.

Noise isolation

The use of vinyl flooring is distinguished by acoustic comfort in the room. The polymer structure contributes to the attenuation of sound waves and reduces the noise level by 19 dB.

Laminate conducts sound well and amplifies several times. To eliminate this effect, soundproofing is laid under the screed: polystyrene foam, expanded clay, fiberglass.

thermal insulation

Vinyl and fiberboard have low thermal conductivity (0.33 and 0.29 W/m*°C), they are perceived as not cold. If desired, you can lay PVC on a warm floor. Water or electric heating system is acceptable.

A laminate board with a thickness of at least 8 mm is mounted on a heat-conducting foil substrate. Heating - no higher than 25-27, otherwise formaldehyde vapors are released.

Operating temperature

Vinylam retains its qualities in the range from -15 to +40 °C. Optimum temperature indoors 28-30 degrees. At higher levels, phthalates and vinyl chloride are released.

Laminate flooring should be used at 15-30°C and 40-75% humidity. It withstands strong cooling, but loses its qualities with rapid heating.

fire safety

Vinyl products are classified as fireproof due to the content of mineral additives: class KM1. Polyvinyl chloride ignites when exposed to an open flame and self-extinguishes when it disappears; it is toxic when ignited.

Laminated parquet practically does not burn, but when exposed to high temperatures generates a lot of smoke. Safety class below: KM2-KM4.

Environmental friendliness

Products based on polyvinyl chloride consist mainly of natural ingredients and does not contain phenol-formaldehyde resins. She does no harm environment and can be recycled.

Laminate panels, subject to the operating conditions, do not emit harmful substances in dangerous concentrations. For floors in residential premises, products of safe category E1 should be chosen.

Dimensions (mm)

Vinyl panels:

length: 250, 300, 500,900;
width: 250, 300, 700;
thickness: 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5;
density 1300-1400 kg / m 3;
the mass of 1 m 2 (0.003 m) will be 4.2 kg.

Laminate panels:

length: 300, 1260-1380, 1845;
width: 90, 185-195, 330;
thickness: 6, 8 (optimal), 12;
density 844-979 kg/m3;
the mass of 1 sq.m (0.008 m) is equal to 6.8 kg.

Design

Both types of coating correspond to the design goal: the maximum imitation of natural or expensive materials. The indicator is the repeatability of the pattern on different elements of the floor. The best value is 1:6.

A variety of shapes and sizes allow you to give free rein to your imagination and create an original design solution.

Slip resistance

A good coefficient of friction is observed in PVC boards: they remain non-slip even when wet.

Moisture on the surface of the laminate panel reduces friction and makes it slippery. You can solve the problem by choosing a material with a corrugated surface.

Ease of installation

Laying of any laminate is made on a substrate. The connection is made by locking method simply and quickly. The height difference should not exceed 2 mm per 2 m of length, the technological gap from the walls and doorways- from 7 to 10 mm. For an inexperienced worker, the floor installation speed is 1.5 hours/m 2 .

Polyvinyl chloride slabs are easy to lay, provided that the surface is well marked. Vinyl is easier to cut, so parts fit faster.

Life time

According to theoretical calculations, laminate class. 31 serves 10-12 years; 33-34 - 10-20 years. Warranty period - 10-15 years, for quality lamellas - at least 25 years.

Warranty for vinyl coatings of well-known manufacturers - more than 25 years. At correct styling and subject to operating conditions can function longer. According to theoretical calculations of some manufacturers - up to 30-40 years.

Ease of maintenance

Any kind has a pronounced antistatic effect and makes it easier to keep clean. For laminate flooring, vacuuming 2-3 times a week and very light damp wiping and drying with a cloth is preferred.

For convenience, let's combine all the data in a brief comparative table:

Quality indicators	laminate board	Vinyl tiles
moisture resistance	Swelling ratio 8-18%	Water absorption is almost 0
Wear class	Up to 34, for residential premises 31-34	Up to 43. For residential premises 31-34
Scratch resistance	Low	Medium
Impact resistance	Low	high
Chemical resistance	Damaged by water, alkali, acid. abrasives. Does not harm white spirit	Not afraid of acids, alkalis. mineral oils. Dangerous solvents based on acetone, rubber, sunlight
Noise isolation	Low	high
Thermal conductivity coefficient, W/m*°С	0,29	0,33
Possibility of floor heating	Only with foil backing, except for IR modules	Except IR heating
Operating temperature, °С	15-30	Drops -20+40, 15-30
fire safety	KM2-KM4	KM1
Environmental friendliness	E1 - quite environmentally friendly	Does not emit harmful substances
Dimensions, mm:
length	300, 1260, 1380	250, 300, 500,900
width	90, 185, 330	250, 300, 700
thickness	6, 8, 12	1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5
Density, kg / m 3	844-879	1300-1400
Weight, kg / m 2	6,8	4,2
Design	Large selection of shades and textures; the presence of chamfers	Any color of wood or stone, chamfers only in expensive collections
Slip resistance	Low, with a corrugated surface increases	Average
Ease of installation	Easy to do by hand	Easy enough
Warranty period, years	10-25 (for quality)	15-25
Ease of care	Wiping with a damp cloth and wiping dry	Wet cleaning with mild detergents
maintainability	Scratches are masked with a wax pencil. A damaged element is easily replaced.	Replacing glued parts is laborious, simple for vinyl

What is better to choose for an apartment

The choice depends on the parameters of the room:

patency;
the possibility of contamination;
humidity level.

For children's room it is better to choose vinyl products class 31-32. This will make it possible to frequently carry out wet cleaning and not be afraid of the action of moisture. Ecologically

Dining room, living room, living room- laminate class 31-32 is also suitable.

To the bedroom to create a quiet atmosphere, it is better to choose vinyl class 31: the load level is low.

Hallway, kitchen- any of the materials to. 32-33: waterproof laminate or PVC as preferred.

Bathroom, bathroom- quartz vinyl, silver ions in the protective part act as an antiseptic.

Apartment with active animals- class 34.

Renovation puts homeowners in front of the choice of building materials. In particular, flooring is represented by a mass range. The question of price is always considered together with quality and durability. Let's see which is better today.

What is laminate

More information about coverage can be found here. Briefly, this is a multilayer board, the basis of which is a fibreboard. The laminate lamella has a stabilizing and protective layer.
Decorative paper or foil, on which an imitation of wood or another pattern is applied, makes the laminate popular and suitable for any interior.

Advantages and disadvantages:

There is also a minus: the coating is not environmentally friendly - it contains a lot of glue containing harmful substances.
If the indicators are exceeded, they can be released into the atmosphere, so it is important to choose the right manufacturer with a proven track record.

What is pvc tile

A covering that resembles linoleum in its appearance, cut into geometric shapes, is a vinyl tile.
Difference from classic roll material yet there are: various shapes - from squares to waves and thickness. The material is relatively young, but managed to win the approval of consumers.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of PVC tiles include the following:

The disadvantages include the absolute non-environmental friendliness of the coating, but the principle of choice is similar to laminate - a proven manufacturer.

Comparison of two floor coverings

So, knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each coating, and even mentally seeing them on the floor of your own apartment, is it possible to make a choice? Let's analyze the laminate and PVC tiles according to other criteria:

Appearance

There are no winners. Each coating is an individual pattern, natural motifs, even photo printing. There are options that imitate leather or carpet.
All of them look decent in the corresponding interior.

Application

The choice of a room for laying one or another coating dictates its traffic activity. For example, laminate flooring requires high class in kitchens, hallways, nurseries and bathrooms. In the last rooms, increased water resistance is required - a special laminate, the body of which is a solid plastic plate.

PVC tiles are laid everywhere. It is only important to choose the right thickness. In bathrooms, kitchens, all rooms of the apartment and walk-through areas.
You can not use PVC tiles in rooms without heating - vinyl is sensitive to cold and cracks from temperature changes.

Self-laying (features)

Laminate flooring is not difficult - deck or diagonal it is carried out from the far corner of the room, gradually combining with the following elements of the tongue-and-groove locking system. Under the laminate requires a flat base - screed, plywood flooring or scraping boards.

Laying PVC tiles requires scrupulousness:

The operation of the tile begins on the same day - you can walk on the floor immediately. As a result: which is easier to install - laminate or PVC tiles? The answer is laminate.

Price

The price range for PVC tiles ranges from 700 to 5500 rubles per 1 sq. m. the increase in cost depends on the chosen thickness, the materials used in the layers and the guarantee of quality for the specified service life. Laminate is cheaper. Expensive options with a high wear resistance class will cost the owners 3 thousand rubles or more per 1 running meter. Budget coverage - from 700 rubles per 1 linear meter.

It is important to choose well-known manufacturer floor coverings. European companies remain the legislators, the Chinese assortment has a good quality. The Russian manufacturer belongs to the economy class.

conclusions

So, which is better - laminate or PVC tiles? There can be no clear preference. Each coating has a number of advantages and disadvantages. The choice is made based on the answers to the following questions:

Room assignment. Active rooms are covered with reliable coatings that are not afraid of moisture and damage.
Budget. It is better to purchase an expensive coating for several decades than to change it every year. Frequent refurbishment is good for hostels or before a property sale.
Harmlessness. Polymers - do not belong to the environment, but without them, floor coverings - tiles and laminate - are not produced. Choose a certified product with a hygiene certificate.
Ease of installation. The lion's share of the budget for repairs will remain if you do the styling yourself.
Simple care. Keeping your floor clean is important every day. If there is no time for this, choose a coating with minimal care.

Good luck with your choice!

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