5 Best Alternatives to Laminate Flooring

Choosing a type of flooring is a significant decision for a homeowner. Floorings stay with us – or so it is expected – for decades and can have a huge impact on our homes. As a result, deciding can be challenging.

Laminate is undoubtedly a versatile and very popular choice. However, like any other material, it does have its downsides. For those who are undecided or looking for something different, there is no shortage of alternatives.

In this article, we’ll explore 5 of the best alternatives to laminate flooring and how they compare, to help you make an informed decision.

1. Cork Flooring

Cork is an eco-friendly material made from the bark of the valiant cork oak tree – which regenerates naturally every few years without harm to the tree. It is, therefore, a completely renewable and sustainable material.

It offers a unique, authentic look that complements both modern and traditional interior design styles. It’s also comfortable to walk on, and an excellent temperature and sound insulator, helping to regulate the temperature in a room and to keep it insulated from outside noises.

These are some of the qualities that have made it a favourite for homeowners seeking both style and comfort.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Comfortable and soft, naturally warm, excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, eco-friendly, water-resistant, resistant to mould and microbes, hypoallergenic.
• Cons: Vulnerable to damage from sharp objects or heavy furniture, requires periodic sealing to maintain moisture resistance.

Best Applications: Cork flooring is ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms, and home offices, where comfort and warmth are key considerations.

Comparison to Laminate: Cork is a more sustainable option than laminate,offering a softer surface that also shields the room from noise. As a natural insulator, it’s a better choice for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

For a more detailed comparison, see our article “Cork Flooring vs Laminate: Cost Analysis and Long-Term Value”.

Summary

2. Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are highly durable, water-resistant, and available in a wide range of designs and colors. They are ideal for spaces that require both durability and aesthetic appeal.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Highly durable, water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and available in many styles.
• Cons: Feels cold underfoot and may require underfloor heating for added comfort.

Best Applications: Bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms benefit most from the robustness and high tolerance to water of ceramic or porcelain tile.

Comparison to Laminate: Ceramic tiles are far more resistant to moisture and wear than laminate, making them a popular choice for high-traffic or wet areas.

Summary

3. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

Luxury Vinyl Plank is a versatile option that mimics the appearance of hardwood or stone while offering great durability and high resistance to water. It is designed to endure intense and frequent foot traffic, making it a solid choice for busy households.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Affordable, durable, water-resistant, and available in a wide range of designs.
• Cons: May emit chemicals, less eco-friendly than other options, cheaper options are less durable and less realistic in appearance.

Best Applications: LVP is best suited for kitchens, bathrooms and other moisture-prone areas.

Comparison to Laminate: LVP offers greater water resistance and durability than laminate. It also provides a more realistic appearance, mimicking materials like wood and stone.

Summary

4. Engineered Hardwood

Engineered hardwood consists of a top layer of real wood bonded to a stable plywood or high-density fibreboard core. This design combines the authentic look of hardwood with increased stability, making it less prone to warping.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Genuine appearance of wood, stable under temperature changes.
• Cons: More expensive than laminate; can only be refinished once or twice.

Best Applications: Engineered hardwood works well in areas like dining rooms, living rooms and hallways, offering an elegant and polished look.

Comparison to Laminate: While laminate has a synthetic appearance, engineered hardwood features a genuine wood top layer and offers better durability. It also has a longer lifespan than laminate, providing excellent value for your money over time.

Summary

5. Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo is a natural, eco-friendly flooring option with a harder surface than many hardwoods. Its distinctive appearance and sustainability make it a favorite among environmentally conscious homeowners.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Eco-friendly, durable, stylish, easy to maintain.
• Cons: Susceptible to water and mould; may require precautions to prevent warping in humid environments.

Best Applications: Bamboo flooring is most common in living areas and bedrooms, where its natural beauty can stand out.

Comparison to Laminate: Bamboo is more sustainable and stronger than laminate, making it a better option for those who value a natural aesthetic.

Summary

Conclusion

Each type of flooring we’ve chosen for this article—cork, luxury vinyl plank, engineered hardwood, ceramic or porcelain tile, and bamboo—has its own unique advantages and, depending on your preferences and requirements, may be worth considering as an alternative to laminate flooring.

The warmth of cork or the durability of ceramic tiles, for instance, might be exactly what your space needs. Considering factors such as your budget, the type of area, and, of course, your personal taste will undoubtedly help you make the right decision.

From cork interlocking floors to glue-down and floating cork floors, Portuguese Treasures offers a wide range of flooring options with unique designs, ensuring you find the perfect blend of style, comfort, and sustainability for your space.

Read about other popular comparisons:

- 5 best alternatives to hardwood flooring
- 5 best alternatives to carpet flooring