The right flooring can transform your space, but with so many options, it can be difficult to know where to start. We’ve begun by comparing carpet and vinyl plank flooring, looking at the pros and cons of each and their suitability for different applications.
Whether you’re renovating a commercial space, residential home, or multi-family property, there’s a lot to bear in mind, from the aesthetics to the more practical considerations. Hence, it pays to do your research first.
Carpet vs. vinyl plank cost
One of the most important things to consider when directly comparing the cost of carpet with vinyl plank flooring is that you’re comparing many different types of products. From luxury nylon carpets to the more competitively priced triexta polyester, carpets come in various styles, colors, and fiber options. Similarly, when it comes to vinyl plank, you can choose from wood patterns, tile, or stone, with options to suit various budgets.
That said, on average, prices for carpet and vinyl plank are similar in the lower and mid-range of the market, but at the higher end, carpet prices increase above those of vinyl plank typically. Carpet installation costs also tend to be higher, as is the expense of maintaining it.
Vinyl plank vs. carpet durability
Luxury vinyl plank is very durable and, therefore, very popular for use in high-traffic areas, such as within healthcare, hospitality, and retail premises. Vinyl plank has a wear layer providing a natural resistance to moisture, staining, and scratching, enabling it to look newer for longer. Unlike with traditional vinyl, if you do damage vinyl planks, you can simply replace that plank rather than the whole section.
Whilst the vinyl planks are waterproof, it’s worth noting that repeated flooding or long-term water exposure can damage any adhesive if used. The planks may also expand and contract in extreme temperature fluctuations.
There isn’t the same concern with carpet; however, it can fade over time in direct sunlight. It also stains more easily, which brings us to the next point.
Vinyl plank vs. carpet maintenance
When it comes to upkeep, carpet tends to demand more attention.
Due to their non-porous nature, vinyl planks are extremely easy to clean, and because they’re waterproof too, spills can be quickly mopped up.
With carpet, however, whilst dust and dirt can be quickly vacuumed up, spills and stains are more of an issue. Retaining moisture can also lead to problems with mold. For this reason, some healthcare environments that previously relied on the use of carpet have switched to vinyl plank flooring in recent years.
Wear and tear is also something to consider with carpet, especially in high-traffic areas such as for commercial use or stairs and hallways. It’s worth investing in nylon carpets for these areas because they can withstand constant usage. If you’ve got your heart set on carpet, darker colors and patterns can help to disguise stains, crushing, and matting.
Vinyl plank vs. carpet appearance
Both vinyl plank and carpet are incredibly versatile in look and style. With vinyl plank, there are many different patterns and color options. In particular, higher-end products have a very realistic wood look and feel. Carpet also allows you to choose between an extensive color range, as well as different styles and fibers.
The extensive choice available makes it possible to achieve your desired look with either vinyl or carpet; it comes down to personal preference.
Using carpet and vinyl plank flooring for different applications
As we’ve already touched upon, high-traffic areas will likely dictate your choice of flooring, as will other practical elements too, such as the likelihood of spills and stains.
Carpets have traditionally been popular in offices, as it’s an ideal flooring product for noise reduction, naturally absorbing sound. However, sleek vinyl plank flooring can look smart in commercial offices, and if you opt for vinyl planks with attached pads, they offer good sound-dampening abilities too.
When it comes to the home, nothing quite beats the comfort of soft, fresh carpet between the toes, especially for bedrooms and living rooms. However, for households with people with asthma, carpets may not be suitable, as allergens in fibers can cause breathing problems.
As with any home or business renovation, you’ll want to factor in everything from your budget and other practicalities to personal preferences and the requirements of those using the space.
The team at Powerhouse will be happy to talk to you in more detail about our carpet and vinyl plank flooring ranges to help you reach an informed decision.