Homeowners wishing to upgrade their flooring have an abundance of options. Among those, two of the most popular are luxury vinyl plank flooring and wood tile. The flooring you choose will have a tremendous impact on how your home looks, feels, and functions.
SMART Carpet and Flooring specializes in providing the highest quality carpet and flooring services to residential and business customers in New Jersey, Staten Island, and eastern Pennsylvania. Here, we offer insight for customers deciding between vinyl plank flooring and wood tile and what you need to know about both.
What Is Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Vinyl plank flooring, also called luxury vinyl plank, is a synthetic material made up of multiple layers. The flooring is presented in long, narrow strips rather than traditional tile squares. Vinyl plank flooring is designed to mimic the look of other, generally more expensive flooring options, such as hardwood, stone, or marble.
Luxury vinyl plank flooring is constructed with four layers:
- A top layer of aluminum oxide to protect against light scratching and scuffs from normal wear and tear
- A clear film layer to protect against severe ripping and tearing
- A design layer that mimics the look of another type of flooring
A rigid vinyl backing layer that makes up almost 90% of the total thickness of the flooring
What Is Wood Tile?
Wood tile, also known as wood-look tile, is ceramic or porcelain-based tile flooring that is designed to look like wood. The characteristics of wood are printed on top of the tile to provide the illusion of authentic hardwood flooring. Wood tile is available in a wide variety of wood species, grains, colors, and distress levels.
Comparing the Two Types of Flooring
Both vinyl plank flooring and wood tile offer property owners a variety of benefits, making them great choices for renovation projects. When considering which option best suits your needs, keep in mind the following:
Durability
All flooring options are susceptible to wear and tear over time. However, in terms of durability, vinyl plank flooring and wood tile are two of the most durable flooring products available. With proper upkeep, owners can expect both flooring options to last. Given their strength, durability, and ability to withstand wear and tear, vinyl plank flooring and wood tile are great flooring options for areas of the home that experience heavy foot traffic.
Maintenance
Keeping floors pristine requires routine maintenance. Homeowners want a flooring option that looks great without much upkeep. Thankfully, both luxury vinyl plank flooring and wood-look tile require minimal maintenance. Typically, all that’s needed is regular sweeping with a broom and occasional deep cleaning with a mop. However, the grout lines on the wood tile may require additional care.
Water Resistance
One of the biggest appeals of vinyl plank flooring and wood tile is their ability to resist water. Traditional wood flooring and water don’t mix well. Therefore, homomers are reluctant to install hardwood in areas of the house where water is common, such as the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. Because vinyl plank flooring and tile are completely waterproof, homeowners can have the look of wood in these areas of the home without the worry of water damage.
Available Styles
Flooring is a major component of a home or commercial property and a crucial design element. Property owners want to be able to choose from a wide variety of styles, colors, and sizes. Customers will find several options of vinyl plank flooring and wood tile that effortlessly mimic the look of the most popular types of wood and other expensive flooring options. Furthermore, when selecting vinyl plank and wood tile, you can choose from traditional, modern, and rustic looks, allowing you to choose the ideal flooring option for your space.
Cost
In many cases, cost is the ultimate deciding factor when choosing new flooring. The price of both vinyl plank and wood tile ranges and is heavily influenced by numerous factors, such as finish, size, and amount. When comparing prices to authentic hardwood, both are affordable alternatives.
Find Premium Flooring at SMART Carpet and Flooring
Property owners in New Jersey, Staten Island, and eastern Pennsylvania who are having trouble deciding what flooring options would work best for them should consult SMART Carpet and Flooring. As a locally owned flooring provider, we take great pride in providing flooring services to residential and commercial clients in the communities we serve. Our flooring expertise includes a vast selection of flooring options and professional installation, including vinyl plank and wood tile.
Clients interested in viewing their options can do so right from their location with our mobile flooring showrooms. Need more carpet or flooring? Shop at home and save when we bring thousands of samples directly to your door.
We are happy to offer customers free estimates and guarantee transparent, upfront pricing on all our services. For more information about vinyl plank flooring or wood tile, contact us today at SMART Carpet and Flooring.
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