The Difference Between Resilient vs Non-Resilient Flooring

Durable Vinyl Flooring Samples Being Cut In this article, you’ll learn about the pros and cons of resilient and non-resilient flooring:

  • Resilient flooring tends to be more affordable to install and maintain, while non-resilient flooring may be expensive and require regular care.
  • Unlike non-resilient options such as tile and natural stone, resilient floors are flexible and bend with pressure rather than cracking.
  • Resilient floor options come in a variety of patterns, textures, and colors, even mimicking non-resilient options.

Whether you need to install flooring in your home or business, what you choose has a significant impact on the value and longevity. As you review your choices, there’s one big decision you have to make: Do you get resilient or non-resilient flooring?

To get the most out of your flooring, you’ll need to learn about both. Fortunately, Precision Flooring Services is here to give you the full breakdown.

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What Is Resilient Flooring?

“Resilient” is a material that can be stretched, bent, or compressed and return to its original shape. Flooring that falls into this category can withstand foot traffic, pressure from furniture, and other factors without getting damaged. Additionally, most options are also low-maintenance, durable, and elastic.

It is Low-Maintenance

Low-maintenance flooring is excellent for homeowners or business owners who want easy-to-clean floors that require minimal repair. These options save time and money, which makes them popular choices for both residential and commercial properties.

Resilient Flooring is Durable

Above all else, resilient flooring is durable. Even in high-traffic areas, it doesn’t show wear, making it invaluable for residential hallways and commercial sales floors. In some cases, resilient materials can last upwards of 100 years. They’re also an excellent choice for daycares and homes with pets, as you can easily mop up spills without leaving stains.

This Flooring is Elastic

Resilient flooring’s flexibility makes it an excellent option for uneven areas. Unlike wood, linoleum, vinyl, and other resilient alternatives don’t need a level surface for installation. Even if there are bumps or grooves, floors that are resilient stay fixed in place.

What Are the Benefits of Resilient Flooring?

Why choose resilient options over traditional flooring? In addition to the long lifespan, a resilient floor is cost-effective and comes in a wide variety of styles.

Resilient Flooring is Affordable

For many, having natural stone or hardwood is a status symbol. However, if you value ease of use and durability, you’re better served by resilient options. Not only do they last years, but they’re usually much cheaper than non-resilient materials and require less upkeep, making them incredibly cost-effective.

It Can be Quite Stylish

Just because you got a great deal doesn’t mean your floor has to look cheap. There are thousands of resilient material flooring options that look elegant, modern, and expensive. Some people even choose this flooring specifically because it has so many options, allowing them to find the perfect pattern or color to fit their dream decor.

What Are the Different Types of Resilient Flooring Options?

There’s a misconception that “resilient flooring” always means “vinyl.” Actually, there are many different types of floors considered resilient, all of which offer benefits.

So which should you choose? It’s a matter of environment and personal preference. While some options are perfectly suitable for a home, others work better in a commercial setting.

Vinyl Resilient Flooring

Vinyl is a thin material that comes in several types:

It’s made of layered no-wax polyurethane, plasticizer, PVC vinyl, and fiberglass. As a result, it’s highly water-resistant and a great choice for residential or commercial properties. The most popular Vinyl flooring options today are Planks and Tiles, referred to as Luxury Vinyl Plank and Luxury Vinyl Tile. Today’s LVT & LVP products can be made with a variety of aesthetics, including wood looks and stone looks.

Cork Resilient Flooring

Cork is lauded as a green flooring option since it’s biodegradable. Additionally, it’s an excellent insulator and provides cushioning. The neutral coloring makes it perfect for home or office decor.

What Is Non-Resilient Flooring?

Non-resilient flooring doesn’t bounce back quite as well as its counterpart. Significant force, such as dropping a heavy appliance, can result in damage:

  • Cracks
  • Chips
  • Splintering

Additionally, non-resilient floors can suffer from water damage. Repairs may be costly and don’t necessarily prevent future harm.

What Are the Benefits of Non-Resilient Flooring?

Despite the downsides, some people prefer flooring types that are non-resilient. After all, it offers a different kind of value. In the end, property owners have to decide for themselves which option works for them.

Consistent Value

When you purchase natural stone or hardwood, you generally know what you’re getting. Each type has its own characteristics and monetary value, which remain constant. Resilient product options such as vinyl, however, are available at a range of prices. As a result, it can be challenging to determine how installation affects a property’s value.

No Permanent Indentation

Due to its elasticity, more resilient floor types bend when pressure is applied to them. Unfortunately, if that pressure is regular and concentrated in a small area, an indentation can become permanent. For example, vinyl may develop dents where kitchen chairs are positioned. Non-resilient options, on the other hand, are hard and therefore don’t warp as easily.

What Are Different Types of Non-Resilient Flooring?

What counts as a non-resilient floor? The range is quite broad and includes most “traditional” options. Each of these has pros and cons, so it’s best to do thorough research if you’re interested in non-resilient types.

Natural Stone

There are a wide variety of natural stone flooring options:

  • Limestone
  • Slate
  • Granite
  • Travertine
  • Marble

Much beloved for its beauty, natural stone requires care. For example, many types need a sealant to prevent staining. Natural stone also tends to be one of the more expensive options, though it often adds to property value.

Wood Floors

There’s no doubt that hardwood flooring is gorgeous. When properly cared for, it can last over 100 years. Like natural stone, installation can raise property value, though the process is intensive and expensive. The most apparent downside to hardwood is its tendency to absorb liquid, which can cause warping and swelling.

Tile Flooring

Ceramic tile is popular in kitchens and bathrooms due to its water resistance. Additionally, it comes in many beautiful colors on par with natural stone without the cost or maintenance. It’s relatively easy to clean, though textured tile and grout can be more complex than smooth options. The one downside is that tile can crack or chip, and repairs may be expensive.

If you’re in the market for new flooring, Precision Flooring Services is here to help. Our professionals have experience installing, repairing, and replacing a wide variety of flooring types, which means we can help no matter the project. To learn more or to get an estimate, contact us online or give us a call at 888-765-4737.

 

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