Parquet or vinyl flooring: which to choose?
This is one of the questions we hear most often at the Openini showroom in Vilnius. The short answer: engineered wood flooring is the usual choice for dry living spaces, while vinyl flooring wins in wet zones and heavily used areas. Below is a full comparison so you can decide for yourself.
Key differences
| Criterion | Engineered wood flooring | Vinyl flooring |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Real wood top layer (oak and others) | PVC / SPC with a decorative layer |
| Price in the Openini catalogue | from ~47 to ~206 €/m² | from ~25 to ~62 €/m² |
| Water resistance | Sensitive – not recommended for bathrooms | Waterproof – suitable for kitchens and bathrooms |
| Underfloor heating | Most 3-layer boards are compatible | Most collections are compatible |
| Renovation | Can be sanded 2–3 times | Cannot be sanded – damaged planks are replaced |
| Feel | Warm, natural wood | Thinner, quiet, warm to the touch |
| Lifespan | Decades (with renovation) | 15–25 years (depending on wear class) |
When to choose wood
Engineered wood flooring is real wood that can be sanded and renewed, so it lasts for decades. It brings a warmth and natural character that vinyl does not replicate. Choose wood for living rooms, bedrooms and studies – dry rooms where longevity and natural aesthetics matter. The Openini catalogue includes BOEN, ME Floor and Lalegno boards, including the popular English herringbone pattern (from ~45 €/m²).
When to choose vinyl
Vinyl flooring is not afraid of water, which makes it right for kitchens, bathrooms and hallways – wherever wood would be at risk. It costs less, installs faster, and modern decors imitate wood convincingly, including herringbone patterns. Commercial classes (33–34) withstand heavy foot traffic in offices and retail spaces. The Openini range includes Moduleo, Arbiton, Lalegno and ME Floor collections from ~25 €/m².
A common mistake
Do not compare the price per square metre alone. A full estimate includes subfloor preparation, adhesives or underlay, skirting boards and installation – and these costs differ between the two flooring types. Send us your floor plan or the area in m², and within 24 hours we will prepare a comparative calculation for both options.
Frequently asked questions
Does vinyl look cheaper than wood?
Modern vinyl with EIR texture is hard to tell from wood at first glance. In person and to the touch the difference is noticeable – which is why we invite you to compare samples at the Openini showroom in Vilnius, T. Ševčenkos g. 19.
Which lasts longer – wood or vinyl?
Engineered wood flooring that can be sanded lasts for decades. Quality vinyl lasts 15–25 years, but it cannot be renewed: a damaged plank is replaced instead.
Which should I choose for a kitchen?
For kitchens we usually recommend vinyl for its water resistance. If you want wood, choose an oiled board and wipe up spills promptly.
Which works over underfloor heating?
Both do: most 3-layer wood boards and most vinyl collections are compatible with underfloor heating, provided the manufacturer's maximum temperature is respected.
Which is cheaper once installation is included?
Vinyl is usually cheaper both in material and in simpler installation. Send us the area in m² and the delivery address, and we will prepare an exact comparison for both options within 24 hours.