Hybrid vs. Laminate Flooring – What’s the Difference?

Choosing which type of flooring to use when renovating your home is a big decision. The reality is that there will always be more flooring options, though this may make the decision-making process more challenging. 

This article will compare hybrid vs. laminate flooring to help you narrow your search and make an informed decision.

Which flooring option is the most suitable? Which of the two is less expensive? Which is the simplest to set up? Which flooring option is most likely to last the longest? Continue reading to learn more about hybrid flooring and laminate.

Hybrid vs. Laminate Flooring – How are They different?

What are the primary distinctions between hybrid and laminate flooring? And which of the two is the superior option? Well, laminate and hybrid flooring are both viable options for your home. 

The main distinction between the two is that hybrid flooring is completely waterproof, whereas laminate flooring has only minor water resistance. 

This means that if you want to outfit your kitchen or bathroom, where moisture levels are higher and spills are more likely, hybrid flooring is the better choice. 

However, laminate flooring is slightly less expensive than hybrid flooring, so for other areas of your home where water resistance is not required, laminate will be the more cost-effective option.

Hybrid vs. Laminate Flooring – Which One is Better?

Compared to natural hardwood options, they are aesthetically pleasing, easy to clean and maintain, and relatively inexpensive.

Here’s a rundown of the main distinctions between laminate and hybrid flooring:

Construction

Both hybrid and laminate flooring have an advanced and relatively strong structure. In addition, laminate and hybrid flooring both have an easy click-and-lock installation process, making laminate slightly easier.

Affordability

While hybrid flooring is less expensive than hardwood, laminate flooring is generally less costly than hybrid flooring.

Design

Regarding design, laminate and hybrid flooring are well-matched, with hundreds of color and style options.

Water Resistance

Hybrid flooring is completely waterproof, whereas laminate flooring provides only minor water resistance. However, both hybrid and laminate flooring is extremely durable.

Comfort

Because of its underlay, hybrid flooring is soft and offers plenty of spring, whereas laminate flooring is more rigid on the surface.

Which is Easier to Clean?

Hybrid flooring is much easier to clean than laminate flooring because it is entirely waterproof. However, laminate is still very easy to clean and maintain compared to other flooring options.

In terms of reparability, hybrid and laminate flooring are comparable. But, which is easier to install, laminate flooring or hybrid flooring? Both hybrid and laminate flooring are effortless and easy to install. 

Both can be floated over your current floor and installed using a click-and-clock method, requiring little prep work. 

This also makes both flooring options more affordable because the overall costs for preparation and installation are reduced. It’s a tie between hybrid and laminate flooring in this case.

Which is More Durable, Hybrid or Laminate Flooring?

So, which flooring option, hybrid or laminate, will last the longest? This is difficult because hybrid and laminate flooring have a hard protective coat that effectively repels scratches and dents. As a result, both are well-suited to high-traffic areas, such as your home’s hallway or living room. 

In addition, hybrid and laminate flooring will easily last for 10 to 25 years, making them both strong contenders for longevity. However, laminate flooring is slightly more scratch-resistant than hybrid flooring, so laminate comes out on top.

Nevertheless, compared to natural hardwood floors, both options are highly recommended due to their ease of installation, affordability, durability, and wide range of styling options.

If you can’t decide, let the target room and environment decide for you. For example, hybrid flooring has the benefit of being completely waterproof in bathrooms and kitchens. 

Please contact us today if you are still unsure and would like more information on the advantages and disadvantages of hybrid vs. laminate flooring. We’d be happy to respond to any queries you may have through one of our helpful representatives.