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Guide to Types of Flooring in Singapore:
Costs, Lifespan, and Sustainability

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Selecting the right flooring material is essential for both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of residential and commercial spaces in Singapore. Due to Singaporeā€™s humid climate, choosing flooring that is moisture-resistant, durable, and easy to maintain is crucial for long-term satisfaction and health.

In this comprehensive guide, we compare the four most popular flooring types in Singaporeā€”vinyl, engineered wood, natural timber, and tilesā€”focusing on their costs, lifespan, and sustainability to help you make an informed decision.

1. Vinyl Flooring
Affordable, Durable, and Low Maintenance

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Vinyl flooring, crafted from synthetic PVC, is widely favoured in Singaporeā€™s residential and commercial properties due to its cost-effectiveness, versatility, and durability. It mimics the appearance of natural materials like wood, stone, and tiles, making it an attractive yet budget-friendly choice.

Properties:

  • Cost: S$4 – S$8 per square foot (materials and installation inclusive), varying by thickness, brand, and design.
  • Lifespan: 10 – 20 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
  • Sustainability: Traditional vinyl isn’t biodegradable; however, eco-friendly, low-VOC, and phthalate-free options are increasingly available, improving indoor air quality.

Pros:

  • 100% waterproofā€”ideal for humid areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Scratch and termite-resistant, making it highly suitable for Singaporeā€™s tropical environment.
  • Easy installation with DIY-friendly click-lock systems, significantly reducing labour costs.

Cons:

  • Less eco-friendly compared to natural materials.
  • Not repairable if damaged; requires replacement, potentially leading to higher long-term costs.
  • Potential VOC emissions from low-quality brands; careful brand selection is necessary.


Best suited for: HDB flats, BTOs, condominiums, rental properties, kitchens, and bathrooms. Ideal for property owners looking for practicality and affordability without sacrificing visual appeal.

2. Engineered Wood Flooring
Real Wood Aesthetic with Added Stability

Engineered wood provides the beauty of natural timber with enhanced resistance to humidity, making it an excellent mid-range flooring solution. It consists of multiple layers, with a genuine hardwood veneer placed over layers of plywood or fibreboard.

Properties:

  • Cost: S$10 – S$18 per square foot (including installation).
  • Lifespan: 20 – 30 years, subject to veneer thickness and maintenance.
  • Sustainability: Eco-friendly option when sourced from FSC-certified wood, consuming less hardwood than solid timber and reducing environmental impact.

Pros:

  • Authentic wood appearance with improved stability against humidity.
  • Resistant to humidity-induced expansion and contraction, suitable for Singaporeā€™s climate.
  • Refinishable, depending on veneer thickness, extending its service life and reducing replacement frequency.

Cons:

  • Vulnerable to prolonged water exposure, necessitating immediate cleanup of spills.
  • Lower-quality products offer limited refinishing options, impacting overall value.
  • Pricier than vinyl flooring, potentially limiting accessibility for budget-conscious homeowners.


Best suited for: Condos, HDB flats, homeowners seeking affordable luxury, and individuals who appreciate genuine wood aesthetics without the extensive maintenance of solid timber.

3. Natural Timber Flooring
Timeless Luxury & Exceptional Durability

Timber Wood Flooring

Natural timber flooring remains a premium choice, known for its luxurious look, durability, and impressive longevity. Each piece of natural timber flooring is unique, contributing to exclusive and visually stunning interiors.

Properties:

  • Cost: S$15 – S$35 per square foot, dependent on wood species and finishing.
  • Lifespan: 50 – 100 years with regular maintenance and proper care.
  • Sustainability: Renewable when responsibly sourced; always opt for FSC-certified timber to ensure sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Pros:

  • Elegant, premium aesthetics significantly boosting home resale value.
  • Long lifespan with multiple refinishing possibilities, making it an excellent long-term investment.
  • Environmentally friendly when sustainably sourced, helping reduce ecological impact.

Cons:

  • Higher initial cost and professional installation required, increasing upfront expenses.
  • Regular maintenance needed to prevent moisture damage, including periodic sealing and treatments.
  • Sensitive to scratches and dents, necessitating careful usage and furniture placement.


Best suited for: High-end condominiums, luxury homes, landed properties, and long-term investments. Ideal for homeowners prioritizing aesthetics, luxury, and durability.

4. Tile Flooring
Durable, Versatile & Water-Resistant

Tile floor after Vinyl Guards deep cleaning

Tiles are a versatile flooring choice, offering durability, moisture resistance, and various design possibilities. Popular options include ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone, suitable for diverse styles ranging from modern minimalism to traditional elegance.

Properties:

  • Cost: S$6 – S$20 per square foot; porcelain typically priced higher than ceramic.
  • Lifespan: 50+ years with proper care, outperforming many other flooring types.
  • Sustainability: Ceramic and porcelain are environmentally friendly; natural stone has a higher ecological impact due to extraction processes and transportation.

Pros:

  • Exceptional durability and water resistance, ideal for high-moisture areas.
  • Easy to maintain and clean, requiring minimal upkeep.
  • Available in diverse designs, colours, and textures, easily customizable for any interior style.

Cons:

  • May feel hard and cold underfoot, potentially uncomfortable without additional rugs or mats.
  • Regular grout cleaning is necessary to prevent discolouration and maintain aesthetics.
  • Installation can be more complex and costly compared to other flooring types.


Best suited for: Kitchens, bathrooms, commercial spaces, high-traffic areas, and humid environments. Suitable for those prioritizing longevity, hygiene, and ease of maintenance.

Final Recommendations For
Selecting Your Ideal Flooring in Singapore

Your flooring choice should align with your lifestyle, budget, and maintenance preferences:

  • Vinyl Flooring: Best for budget-friendly, water-resistant solutions.
  • Engineered Wood: Ideal for natural aesthetics with improved humidity resistance.
  • Natural Timber: Optimal for luxurious appeal, long-term investment, and enhanced property value.
  • Tiles: Excellent for durability, versatility, and high-moisture areas.

    Use the brief breakdown when choosing floor for your home renovation project:
Guide to choose floor type, HDB, Condo, Vinyl Guards

By carefully considering your specific needs and preferences, you can choose the flooring that perfectly complements your lifestyle and enhances your living or commercial space in Singapore.

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