Finding flooring for your DIY project can be confusing. That’s why we’re here to help!
There’s primarily 3 types of flooring, Hardwood, Vinyl (including SPC and WPC; more on that later), and Laminate. Find the right one for your needs based on price point, usage, and ease of installation!
1. Hardwood:
Cost: $$$
Hardwood is the most well known, classic home floor. It brings elegance and luxury to any room, but is also the most costly option.
Usage: ✰✰✰
Hardwood can be installed anywhere from your usual living spaces to wet areas like the kitchen and bathroom. On top of that, hardwood is known to last a lifetime with proper maintenance, alongside being the most environmentally friendly option.
Installation: ✰
While hardwood is able to be installed anywhere, the installation process is a bit complicated with little details and rules that must be adhered to. It is not recommended for first time DIY-ers.
2. Vinyl:
For Vinyl, there are a few subcategories to explore: SPC, and WPC. Each comes with its own pros and cons, so do consider your own needs before choosing one!
SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite, meaning that the core material it is made from is stone based. This allows it to be 100% waterproof, and is ideal for wet areas like the kitchen or bathroom.
WPC, or Wood Polymer Composite, on the other hand, while also 100% waterproof, is less durable than SPC. However, it has a thicker core than SPC, allowing it to have more cushion for high traffic areas.
Cost: $$
Overall, Vinyl sits at a more affordable price point than hardwood. Both SPC and WPC have a similar range in price/sqft, depending on features like thickness or durability.
Usage:✰✰✰
SPC and WPC are 100% waterproof, making it the perfect addition to any room in your home. Vinyl flooring also takes less maintenance than hardwood flooring, giving it an extra edge in durability.
Installation: ✰✰✰
SPC and WPC flooring is the go to for DIY-ers, and for a small area, it can even be a weekend DIY project! There are two types of vinyl flooring that boast easy installation: click-together and peel-and-stick tiles. They work exactly like they sound and boost your working speed, giving vinyl an advantage when it comes to DIY.
3. Laminate
Cost: $
Laminate is the go-to for DIY-ers on a budget. While it is the cheapest option, laminate flooring comes in all types of luxurious looking patterns to give that extra oomph.
Usage: ✰
While laminate looks good, it is not waterproof, and is prone to mold, mildew, and termites. Therefore, without proper maintenance, laminate will not hold up for the long term unlike vinyl and hardwood.
Installation:✰✰✰
Laminate also comes in click-together panels, making it easier to install than hardwood. However, you will need power tools to cut and shape the laminate planks, as opposed to something like a peel-and-stick vinyl tile that can be cut with a utility knife.
TLDR; Our Verdict.
Best bang for your buck: Laminate
Best for long term: Hardwood (preferably Engineered hardwood)
Best Overall: Vinyl
Whatever material you decide, Home Renovation Supplies LA is on your side! Visit our North Hollywood Showroom today, or contact us using the form under the "Shop" page. Our DIY friendly, knowledgeable staff can answer all your questions!