Flooring Types Explained: Comparing Hardwood, Laminate, Hybrid, Vinyl, Carpet and Tiles

Introduction

When it comes to flooring, not all options are created equal. Every material brings its own look, feel, durability, and price point to the table. Whether you’re styling a luxury home, creating a pet-proof family zone, or preparing a rental for the market, your flooring choice will influence how your space looks, feels, performs, and holds its value over time.

This guide breaks down the six most popular flooring types in Australia — hardwood, laminate, hybrid, vinyl, carpet, and tiles — so you can weigh up what’s best for each room and situation. We’ll explore the pros, cons, typical costs, and where each flooring type shines. Plus, with AIreno, you can quote any of these flooring types instantly, helping you plan smarter from the very first click.

1. Hardwood Flooring

Overview: Hardwood flooring refers to either solid timber planks or engineered timber (a plywood core topped with a hardwood veneer). It’s long been a favourite for high-end homes and heritage renovations.

Pros:

• Unmatched natural warmth and character
• Adds serious value to your home
• Can be sanded and refinished multiple times
• Durable with the right care and maintenance

Cons:

• Among the most expensive options
• Prone to scratching and denting
• Requires acclimatisation before installation
• Susceptible to moisture damage

Ideal for: Premium builds, owner-occupied homes, and heritage restorations

Best rooms: Living rooms, dining rooms, hallways, master bedrooms

Typical cost (supply + install): $120–$200 per m2

2. Laminate Flooring

Overview: Laminate mimics the look of hardwood using a high-definition printed image layer over a high-density fibreboard (HDF) core. It’s been the go-to affordable timber-look floor for years.

Pros:

• Cost-effective and widely available
• Highly scratch-resistant
• Fast installation with floating systems
• Easy to clean and maintain

Cons:

• Not waterproof (some are water-resistant)
• Cannot be sanded or repaired if damaged
• Can sound hollow underfoot without proper underlay

Ideal for: Families, rental properties, budget-friendly renovations

Best rooms: Living areas, bedrooms, hallways

Typical cost (supply + install): $50–$90 per m2

3. Hybrid Flooring

Overview: Hybrid is a newer innovation that combines the scratch resistance of laminate with the waterproof qualities of vinyl. It features a rigid core and a realistic timber-look finish.

Pros:

• 100% waterproof — ideal for wet-prone areas
• Durable, pet- and kid-friendly
• Great acoustic insulation with the right underlay
• Authentic timber texture without the upkeep

Cons:

• Slightly higher cost than laminate
• Can feel firmer or less natural underfoot than real timber

Ideal for: Busy households, kitchens, open-plan areas

Best rooms: Everywhere, including kitchens, entryways, and laundries

Typical cost (supply + install): $60–$110 per m2

4. Vinyl Flooring (Planks, Tiles, or Sheet)

Overview: Vinyl flooring is made from synthetic materials that are waterproof, flexible, and resilient. It comes in sheet form or as luxury vinyl planks/tiles (LVP/LVT) that mimic timber or stone.

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Waterproof and stain-resistant
• Softer and quieter than timber or tile
• Huge range of designs and textures

Cons:

• Prone to wear in high-traffic areas
• Can dent under heavy furniture
• Difficult to repair if cut or torn

Ideal for: Rental properties, playrooms, secondary dwellings

Best rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, basements

Typical cost (supply + install): $45–$80 per m2

5. Carpet

Overview: Carpet remains the go-to for comfort and cosiness. It’s made from synthetic or natural fibres and available in a variety of piles, patterns, and colours.

Pros:

• Soft and warm underfoot
• Excellent sound insulation
• Affordable and easy to replace
• Provides a cosy, inviting feel

Cons:

• Can stain easily
• Shorter lifespan compared to hard surfaces
• Not suitable for damp or high-traffic areas
• Traps allergens and odours

Ideal for: Bedrooms, living rooms, and upstairs areas

Best rooms: Master and kids’ bedrooms, home theatres

Typical cost (supply + install): $40–$100 per m2

6. Tiles (Porcelain or Ceramic)

Overview: Tiles are a high-durability option that work well in both residential and commercial spaces. They come in countless styles, sizes, and textures to suit almost any design aesthetic.

Pros:

• 100% waterproof
• Heat-resistant and easy to clean
• Excellent for underfloor heating
• Long lifespan with minimal maintenance

Cons:

• Hard and cold underfoot
• Installation is time-consuming and costly
• Can be slippery without textured finishes

Ideal for: Bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor zones, and high-traffic areas

Best rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, laundries, patios

Typical cost (supply + install): $90–$150 per m2

Choosing What Works for You

To find the right flooring, think about:

• Your lifestyle: Kids, pets, allergies, noise levels, cleaning habits
• Room purpose: Is it a high-traffic hallway or a quiet retreat?
• Moisture levels: Does the space need waterproofing?
• Your budget: Can you afford hardwood throughout, or a mix of options?
• Resale value: Are you renovating to live or sell?

With AIreno, you can filter flooring types by durability, water resistance, budget, and more. Our instant quoting tool shows you real-world prices based on your selections, helping you plan and compare like a pro.

Conclusion

Each flooring material brings its own character and capabilities. Whether you value durability, aesthetics, comfort, or cost-efficiency, there’s a flooring type that matches your needs.

And when you’re ready to turn plans into action, AIreno is your go-to platform. Build your scope, generate instant quotes, and connect with top-rated tradespeople who specialise in the floor type you choose.

Next in the Ultimate Flooring Guide: Flooring Costs and Budgeting – What Impacts Price and How to Plan Smarter.