How to choose between hybrid or vinyl plank flooring?

LSJ

  

Hi, I want to replace the carpet laid  on concrete in my 1BR apartment with either vinyl plank or hybrid flooring. The building has a minimum acoustic hard level of 50db. 
 My questions are:

1. Is vinyl plank or hybrid a better option?  Most of vinyl planks will need underlay to meet acoustic requirements, but I have found a few. 
2. There is a row of tiles in the  kitchen area at the rear of the living room. Should I  remove the tiles  and lay the hard flooring  throughout the apartment , or leave the tiles and lay the hard flooring alongside? The tiles are in reasonable condition, though need  regrouting and buffing, or maybe colouring? 

Thanks in advance for  your advice  

Liz

JacobZ

Hi Liz (@LSJ),

Thank you for your question.

Vinyl Plank Flooring is affordable, easy to install, and 100% waterproof, but it may need an underlay to meet acoustic requirements. Hybrid Flooring is more durable and stable and often includes a built-in underlay, making it a better option for meeting acoustic standards, though it is generally more expensive.

Personally, I would go with Hybrid Flooring, but the choice is entirely up to you.

My main concern would be avoiding changes in the height of the flooring, so if the tiles are the same thickness as your flooring, I would leave them in place and butt up to them, using Transition Cover Trims to cover the gap. If the tiles are not the same thickness, I would remove them and lay your new flooring across the whole area. 

Allow me to tag our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their thoughts.

Jacob