Do you know how often people mistake one flooring medium for another? Pretty regularly, if we're being honest. We can't really fault anyone for this. After all, we probably wouldn't know the difference either if flooring wasn't our profession. But, because flooring is our profession, allow us to clarify a few things for you.
Cement vs. Concrete
These two words are so often used interchangeably, but one of them isn't even a type of floor/foundation. Cement is actually just a binding ingredient used in concrete! It is also used in mortar.
Laminate vs. Vinyl
While both laminate and vinyl mimic the look of hardwood planks and tile floors, they are quite different from one another. For one thing, laminate flooring is made out of natural, recycled materials. Vinyl, on the other hand, is made with synthetic elements. Beyond that, vinyl is much more flexible than laminate flooring and has a different installation process that involves gluing it down directly to the subfloor. Laminate is a floating floor.
Linoleum vs. Vinyl
Once again, vinyl sets itself apart with its synthetic base. Like laminate, linoleum is made with natural materials and is water-resistant whereas vinyl is practically waterproof. Vinyl is also more durable and much easier to install than linoleum.
Rug vs. Carpet
Size is the only difference between these two items. As you might have guessed, carpets are designed to cover a much larger space than a rug. Anything bigger that 40 square feet is officially considered a carpet. Aside from that they really are very similar.
Porcelain vs. Ceramic
If you read our blog on Tuesday, you'll know that porcelain is water-resistant and able to stand up to cold climates. Ceramic is not, so as soon as cold temperatures hit it begins to crack. Porcelain has a little extra help in preventing that effect because it is made with refined clay, meaning that when it goes through the kiln it becomes much harder than ceramic tiles.
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