Difference between rubber and vinyl floors: when furnishing a room, many different types of floor coverings can be used. Floors come in various shapes and sizes, and can be made from diverse materials. Such as rubber or vinyl, but what is the difference between rubber and vinyl floors? We will explain this further in the article below.
Rubber floors
Duracryl's rubber floors are bio-based and contain recycled materials. The ‘Ndurance’ floor of Duracryl is a poured floor (meaning without material loss and seams). These floors are extremely suitable for schools, offices, and medical buildings.
BENEFITS
- Sustainability: the rubber flooring from our workshop is made from recycled materials and produced in a sustainable manner. By choosing this floor, you show that you care about the environment.
- Safety: Rubber floors have a high slip resistance, making them safer than many other types of flooring. This makes them ideal for use in areas where the risk of slipping/falling is greater, such as: gyms, locker rooms, hallways, and kitchens.
- Noise reduction: Due to the sound-absorbing properties of a rubber floor, they can help reduce noise pollution in busy areas. Useful in apartments, offices, and public spaces where quiet is important.
- Maintenance: Rubber floors require little maintenance, are stain-resistant, and can be easily cleaned.
Disadvantages
A disadvantage of rubber floors can be that they are difficult to repair once the floor is damaged. If the damage is extensive, it may mean that a larger section of the floor needs to be replaced.
Read more about this here (biopolymer) rubber floors.
Vinyl flooring
Vinyl flooring is made from PVC. It is a synthetic material used in a variety of applications. Below, we outline the pros and cons of this type of flooring.
BENEFITS
- Water-resistant: The vinyl flooring is water-resistant, making it ideal for use in damp areas.
- Easy to install: The floors can often be laid directly over existing floors. This saves money and time when installing a new floor.
- Comfortable: The floors are considered comfortable due to their softness and resilient properties. This makes the floor ideal for spaces where people stand for long periods of time.
Disadvantages
- Not eco-friendly: Vinyl floors are made of PVC, this material is not biodegradable and during the production process it also involves harmful chemicals.
- Harmful fumes: During the installation of the floors, harmful fumes may be released that are not good for your health. Therefore, ensure sufficient ventilation in the room.
- Limited lifespan: The floors have a limited lifespan and can be damaged, expand, and shrink when exposed to sunlight.
Certified floors
Duracryl offers rubber floors that feature various certificates. The ‘Ndurance’ floor carries the Red List Free label. This certificate means that the building materials used in production are not classified as harmful to humanity or the environment.
In addition, the floor LEED certified; this certification is recognized as one of the most widely used rating systems for green buildings. The project earns points by meeting criteria related to carbon, energy, water, waste, transportation, materials, health, and indoor environmental quality.
Finally, the floor BREEAM certified, this is a certificate for a sustainably built environment.
Choosing rubber or vinyl flooring?
After reading this article, you will hopefully be able to make a better choice between a rubber or vinyl floor. Naturally, the situation has a major impact on the choice you make; where will the floor be installed? Are you installing the floor yourself or having it installed? These are all factors that play a role in the purchasing process.
It is important to know the differences between the two floors. If you choose durability and environmental friendliness, then choosing a rubber floor is a logical one. This floor lasts a long time and earns back its investment. A vinyl floor is harmful to the environment and has a relatively short lifespan. The choice is yours!
