Product

Vinyl floors or floating floors: differences, advantages, and how to choose the right one for your project

13 October 2025

Choosing between vinyl and floating floors depends on use, budget, and style. This guide explores their main differences, advantages, and installation tips to help you achieve durable and stylish surfaces for any space.

Federico Herrero 13 October 2025

Floors have become a true design device. They not only serve a functional purpose but also define the aesthetics and the feeling of inhabiting a space. In the Argentine (and Latin American) market, the two most popular options are vinyl floors and floating (laminate) floors.

Vinyl floors: made from layers of PVC or SPC (Stone Plastic Composite), they stand out for their water resistance, durability, and the versatility of designs that replicate wood, concrete, or stone. They are increasingly chosen for urban apartments, commercial spaces, and modern offices.

Floating (laminate) floors: composed of HDF (High Density Fiberboard) boards with a melamine or decorative surface layer, they offer visual warmth and a strong cost-benefit ratio. They are commonly used in family homes, bedrooms, and living rooms.

“The choice between vinyl and laminate flooring is not just about style — it defines the space’s long-term performance.”

Vinyl SPC: composed of a blend of limestone powder and plastic polymers pressed into rigid layers. The result is a 100% waterproof floor with excellent dimensional stability and a hyper-realistic finish. Installed using a click system, it simplifies construction and eliminates the need for adhesives.

Vinyl LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile): features flexible PVC layers with high-resolution printing. It stands out for its visual fidelity in textures and colors. It can be installed with a click system or glued down, depending on the model.

Floating HDF floors: made from high-density fiberboard panels. The surface includes a decorative layer that replicates wood or solid colors, protected by a transparent overlay. These floors offer good wear resistance but require more care against moisture than vinyl options.

Main differences between vinyl and floating floors

Feature	Vinyl Floors (SPC / LVT)	Floating Floors (HDF)
Water resistance	100% waterproof, suitable for bathrooms and kitchens	Sensitive to water, may swell
Durability	High, suitable for heavy traffic	Medium-high, less ideal for commercial spaces
Aesthetics	Realistic wood, stone, or concrete looks	Classic wooden tones and textures
Installation	Quick click system, no adhesives	Click system, requires level subfloor
Maintenance	Easy, cleaned with damp cloth	Requires specific cleaners, moisture-sensitive
Cost	Variable: LVT affordable, SPC premium	Generally more budget-friendly