Comparison
PVC floor vs poured floor: which should you choose?
An honest comparison between two popular types of flooring. We install PVC, but below we give you an objective overview of both so you can make an informed decision.
Free advice and quoteShort answer
PVC gives a warm, natural look (wood, stone, herringbone), is affordable starting from €70/m², is quick to install and can be repaired plank by plank. A poured floor gives a seamless, sleek design look, but is more expensive, has a long drying time and is difficult to repair if damaged. For most homes, PVC is the practical, cost-effective choice; you choose a poured floor for a specific modern design effect.
The comparison
Swipe or use the arrow keys to view both columns.
| PVC floor | Poured floor (gietvloer) | |
|---|---|---|
| Uitstraling | Wood, stone, herringbone: warm and natural, wide range of options | Seamless, sleek and modern/industrial, a monolithic look |
| Price incl. installation | From around €70/m² | Often €90 to €150/m², generally more expensive |
| Installatie | Usually fitted in 1 day, ready to walk on immediately | Multiple days, long curing and drying time |
| Loopgevoel | Warm and soft underfoot, quiet | Feels harder and cooler underfoot (unless paired with underfloor heating) |
| Water | Water-resistant planks, edges sealed with silicone | Seamless and liquid-tight |
| Herstelbaar | Yes, a damaged plank can be replaced | Repairability varies by product and type of damage |
| Vloerverwarming | Ideally suited | Well suited |
| Risico | Depends on product, subfloor and installation method | Shrinkage cracks and (with PU) yellowing possible |
| Ideal for | Homes, quick turnaround, budget-friendly, warm look | Sleek design statement, heavy-duty/industrial use |
Choose PVC if...
- you want a warm, natural wood-effect or herringbone pattern
- you want to keep to an affordable budget
- it needs to be done quickly and with minimal disruption
- you want the option to replace individual planks later on
Choose a poured floor if...
- you want a seamless, sleek and modern look
- you have an industrial or heavily used space
- you do not want any seams or joints
- budget and drying time are not an issue
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a PVC floor and a poured floor (gietvloer)?
A PVC floor consists of planks or tiles in a wood-effect, stone-effect or herringbone design, and is either clicked together or glued down. A poured floor (gietvloer) is a seamless, liquid-applied resin or cement floor with a sleek, modern appearance. PVC is warmer, quicker to fit, more affordable and can be repaired plank by plank; a poured floor offers a monolithic, seamless design, but is more expensive and has a long drying time.
Which is cheaper, PVC or a poured floor?
PVC is generally cheaper. A PVC floor including installation starts at around €70 per m², whereas a poured floor often costs between €90 and €150 per m², depending on the type (PU, epoxy, cement) and the preparation required for the subfloor.
Is a PVC floor or a poured floor better for underfloor heating?
Both work well with underfloor heating. A poured floor conducts heat very evenly due to its mass, but feels cooler when the heating is off. PVC feels naturally warmer and also performs well when glued down, provided the manufacturer certifies the floor as suitable. For a cosy, comfortable feel underfoot, many people choose PVC.
Which floor lasts longer, PVC or a poured floor?
With proper maintenance, both last 15 to 25 years. A poured floor is very hard-wearing, but over time it can develop shrinkage or hairline cracks that are difficult to repair invisibly. With a PVC floor, you can simply replace a damaged plank, making long-term maintenance much easier.
Which floor is the best choice for me?
Choose PVC for a warm, natural look, a sensible budget, fast installation and the option to replace individual planks. Choose a poured floor if you specifically want a seamless, sleek design look or have a heavy-duty industrial application. For most homes, PVC is the practical and cost-effective choice. We are happy to give you honest advice.
Unsure between PVC flooring and a poured floor?
We give you honest advice on which floor suits your space, budget and requirements. Request a no-obligation quote.