(Images from Deposit Photos)

Choosing the best flooring for homes with pets can require more consideration than for homes without. Don’t let that deter you—understanding your family’s needs and the different flooring options makes the selection process much easier.

The needs of a pet owner

It’s no secret that pets can be messy. Many animals regularly shed fur, so it's important to select a flooring type that is easy to clean.

With some pets (especially larger dogs that are overly energetic and frequently race around the home), there is a greater risk of damaging the flooring. Consider a flooring material that is durable enough to hold up under their claws.

Energetic pets may also be prone to knocking things over, potentially leading to liquid spills. Young or old pets, particularly, may be more likely to have an accident indoors. In these instances, choosing flooring with good water resistance can help prevent damage from exposure to liquids.

For households with bigger animals, multiple pets, or those living in an apartment with neighbors underneath, the level of noise reduction a flooring can offer may also be a large consideration.

You may already have a flooring type in mind for your renovation, but it’s important to consider the above considerations to ensure your decision is suited to your needs.

This article will compare vinyl plank and laminate flooring for homes with pets.

Durability

Both laminate and vinyl plank are composed of four layers: a moisture barrier and a protective wear layer. The wear layer can resist abrasion and prevent scratches, dents, and stains. Laminate and vinyl plank are long-lasting flooring types that should resist the regular impact of an energetic pet’s claws.

Water resistance

The wear layer of laminate protects the boards from immediate water damage, but overall, laminate has relatively poor water resistance. Spills must be cleaned up promptly as if water seeps into the seams of the boards, they can swell, warp, crack, and lift. This is a concern if your pet has an accident indoors or knocks a drink onto the floor while you are out, leaving the liquid to damage the boards.

Vinyl planks tend to be more water resistant than laminate, with some products even being waterproof. However, spills should still be cleaned up promptly, as extended exposure can damage the planks' adhesive.

Comfort

Carpet is often the obvious choice for flooring when considering comfort. However, carpets can be less suitable for most homes with pets due to staining, cleaning requirements, and allergens.

The surface of laminate planks is smooth and even, so pets will be comfortable walking and playing on them and lying down on them. Vinyl planks are also smooth but usually softer and warmer than laminate, making them a great choice for households with older pets or pets with health conditions that benefit the most from a comfortable flooring type.

Noise reduction

Laminate can be somewhat noisy underfoot, but vinyl plank absorbs sound and is relatively quiet. Where the two flooring types are similar in other aspects, the level of noise reduction may be a deciding factor for some households.

Cleaning

Both laminate and vinyl plank flooring are simple to clean. Spills and other messes can be wiped away, and pet hair can be easily vacuumed.

Aesthetics

Whatever your home's interior, laminate and vinyl plank offer various colors and styles. With options that mimic flooring materials like natural wood, stone, and ceramic, laminate and vinyl plank have a vast array of options to complement your existing home decor.

Cost

Both flooring options are available at varying price points, so you should be able to find a suitable product that fits most budgets.

Choosing the right flooring product

Whether you’re sold on laminate or vinyl plank flooring, both materials are produced by various manufacturers in varying styles. Vinyl plank flooring comes in many variations; however, most products are well-suited for homes with pets. The material is inherently anti-slip and water-resistant, so you can focus on choosing the right product for your home's aesthetic without worrying about its suitability for your pet.

If laminate flooring seems the right choice for your household, ensure the product specifications fit your needs. Not all laminate flooring products are equally moisture-resistant, so if this is an important factor, look for water-resistant and waterproof plastic laminate options. A laminate flooring product's level of slip resistance can also vary. Many laminate products can be somewhat slippery underfoot, so look for non-slip products if you have concerns about your pets sliding on the flooring.

Which flooring is better for homes with pets?

Ultimately, laminate and vinyl plank are suitable flooring choices for homes with pets. Consider all of the above information to decide which type is best for your household's specific needs.

Always have the flooring installed by a professional. This will help increase the lifespan of your floors and ensure maximum safety for your pet.

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Powerhouse is a full-service home and commercial services company based in Texas.