Which one is better? So many times have we come across the debate between homogenous tiles vs. vinyl flooring. Every homeowner wants the best option for their homes- Flooring that is equally beautiful, affordable, and durable. But which one is superior? This is a question that many people are still looking for an answer to. Let’s begin with Homogeneous Tiles VS Vinyl Flooring!
Our article tries to figure out and settle this menace once and for all. Before deciding on what to purchase, it is only prudent to have knowledge of all aspects. Here are our homogeneous tiles vs vinyl flooring articles. Read on!
Homogeneous Tiles VS Vinyl Flooring Comparisons
1. Air Quality
First in line is the air quality. Vinyl uses PVC resin in its construction. Resin is known to release harmful gases to the air through a process referred to as off-gassing. When the gases build up with time, they contribute to air pollution and can even have adverse effects on asthmatic individuals. This becomes a big blow to vinyl flooring.
On the other hand, homogenous tiles flourish in this sector. the tiles are made using organic materials that don’t off-gas. Tiles are preferred for their natural and organic feel. They are sustainable and eco-friendly.
2. What of durability?
This one is a tight race. The newly innovated vinyl flooring makes use of the interlocking installation technology. They are stronger, slip-resistant, and tolerate greater load when compared to the traditional vinyl flooring. This isn’t to mean that tiles are of low quality.
On the contrary, homogeneous tiles seem to have an edge over vinyl flooring in terms of durability. Tiles are known to not only withstand acidic chemicals but also scratches. Vinyl flooring has a lifespan of 10 to 20 years while homogenous tiles can last up to 50 years.
Vinyl flooring is undoubtedly durable but unfortunately isn’t fit for some applications. Vinyl flooring is usable in bedrooms and retail spaces but not kitchenettes, car parks, and public toilets. Also, vinyl flooring tends to discolor and get damaged with successive wear and tear.
Homogenous tiles take the day in this category.
3.Maintenance
Which one is cheaper and easier to maintain between homogeneous tiles vs. vinyl flooring? Homogenous tiles incorporate self-cleaning and anti-bacterial technologies. Some tiles also exist on four surfaces- smooth matte, polished, structured rough, and ribbed. At the end of the day, the ease of maintaining tiles narrows down to the type you choose.
If you purchase a high-quality tile, expect impressive levels of stain resistance. Vinyl flooring on the other hand is also easy to maintain and clean. It doesn’t have too many surfaces like homogenous tiles and so doesn’t have many complications.
In terms of maintenance, both tiles and vinyl flooring are equally good.
4. Installation
Installing tiles is trickier than vinyl and requires professional assistance. You need to engage a contractor to hack on the already existing material. Tiles need to be handled with care without any compromise. They are fragile and can get damaged easily.
With vinyl flooring, no special treatment is required. Installing them requires you to simply attach one strip to another. Glue is not even needed. If you’re in a rush and need your renovation done in a short period, vinyl flooring is the option to go for.
Vinyl flooring takes the day of the homogeneous tiles vs. vinyl flooring in terms of ease of installation.
5. Pricing- which one is cheaper?
This is a huge factor that everyone considers when making their flooring decisions. The decision on this one is pretty simple- vinyl flooring is the cheaper option. A big reason for this is that vinyl flooring doesn’t require any professional assistance in installing it. It is a Do-It-Yourself affair.
With homogenous tiles, you will need to engage a contractor to hack your existing flooring. Even without the hacking services, tiles are still more costly than vinyl.
The affordable price of vinyl makes it popular and a preference for many homeowners. It wins this section of the homogeneous tiles vs. vinyl flooring competition.
Summary of Homogeneous Tiles VS Vinyl Flooring
Any conclusion on the homogeneous tiles vs. vinyl flooring debate? Both floorings have their pros and cons. Their unique features play a huge role in their decision. Let us summarize to you their pros and cons. Vinyl flooring is easy to install and maintain, durable, and more affordable. Their pricing makes them a huge favorite to many.
Homogeneous tiles, on the other hand, are extremely durable, eco-friendly, a little bit more expensive but of better quality. Its waterproof property makes it compatible for use in kitchens, garages, and other damp areas- something vinyl flooring can’t.
If you want a high quality, good-looking, eco-friendly option that can be used in damp areas, homogeneous flooring is the way to go. This is if you don’t mind spending a little bit more on the flooring. On the other hand, vinyl flooring is the choice to go for if you want an affordable, easy to install option that is of equal quality, longevity, and good-looking.
Conclusion
Even after exhausting all the pros and cons, the race on homogeneous tiles vs. vinyl flooring still seems tight. Some people will settle for homogeneous tiles while an equally large number of people prefer vinyl flooring. The decision to settle for, however, narrows down to your personal preference and budget.
Which is your better option? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section.