Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) vs Laminate: Which Is Best for You?

When you’re searching for a new flooring option that is budget-friendly and easy to care for, you need to look at luxury vinyl plank (LVP) vs laminate flooring. These two flooring types have much in common but also have significant differences that one should consider before deciding which one to install.

 

What Is a Luxury Vinyl Plank?

 

Luxury vinyl plank, is a popular flooring style that is highly durable, waterproof, and budget-friendly. With many stylish options to choose from, it is suitable for one’s home, office, or area where high foot traffic occurs.

 

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is flooring that comes in long, narrow strips rather than the traditional square tile shapes and is made of four layers/materials:

• A topmost layer of aluminum oxide assists in the prevention of light scratching and scuffs.
• A clear film layer that protects against harsh ripping and tearing.
• A design layer that provides a realistic look of wood or stone.
• A back layer made of hard vinyl.

What Is Laminate Flooring?

 

Laminate flooring is a synthetic product that copies the look of real hardwood, making it a popular choice for those who like the style of hardwood flooring but not the cost. It is made up of four different layers which are fastened together in the lamination process.

 

These layers are:

• A durable and transparent wear layer.
• Decor consisting of a photographic pattern of wood or another natural material.
• A core made from medium-density fiberboard or high-density fiberboard.
• A backer.

When looking at laminate vs vinyl flooring it’s good to note the difference in important factors such as the following:

 

Pricing

 

Regarding the cost of vinyl flooring vs laminate, both can be relatively similar in price. Laminate is typically less expensive in most cases, but some budget-friendly LVP styles can create competition for some laminate flooring products.

 

When it comes to higher-end styles in both flooring categories, LVP can be far more expensive, because of the cost of the materials and manufacturing.

 

Thickness

 

LVP is generally very thin, sometimes around 2mm. The thickness of laminate flooring can be seen at or around ½ inch and usually works well with existing hardwood or carpet.

 

Water resistance

 

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is 100% waterproof because of the polymer core. When it is exposed to water the core will not be damaged. Important to note that if there is a wood subfloor under the vinyl plank and a significant amount of water rests on the surface for a long period, it can make its way through the cracks and swelling can still occur.

 

LVP vs Laminate: What’s the Difference?

 

Laminate is not 100% waterproof, but almost most high-quality laminate flooring comes with some form of water resistance. This can be in the form of waxed edges which serve to repel water.

 

Installation

 

LVP flooring can be glued to the subfloor or loose-laid. When glued, one will use liquid adhesive or self-stick adhesive backing. When loose-laid, the planks attach side-to-side, but not to the subfloor.

 

Regarding laminate flooring, the core in these flooring boards has a tongue and groove that allows installers to snap the boards together and leave the flooring suspended over the subfloor without it being physically attached. This creates a floating floor.

 

Durability

 

Durability is a key factor to consider when choosing the best flooring option. LVP and laminate are both known for their durability. They are both low-maintenance, stain-resistant flooring options that require only occasional cleaning and vacuuming.

 

The lifespan of these flooring options is similar, about 10 to 25 years.

 

What Are the Pros & Cons of LVP vs Laminate?

Below we go through the advantages and disadvantages of LVP and laminate flooring.

 

The Pros of Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring:

• Resilient
• Water-resistant
• Low maintenance
• Long-lasting
• More comfortable with a softer and more padded feeling underfoot.
• Insulated layers help the floor maintain a consistent temperature throughout the year.
• It has soundproofing qualities, which help to reduce both noise and echo in any room.
• Affordable and easy to install.

The Cons of Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring:

• It cannot be refinished as there is only a single wear layer over the design layer.
• Not environmentally friendly.
• Slightly higher in price.

The Pros of Laminate Flooring:

• Low maintenance
• Durable
• High traffic endurance with minimal damage.
• UV resistance.
• Can be waterproofed.
• Affordable
• Easy installation
• Decently eco-friendly

The Cons of Laminate Flooring:

• There is a high risk of liquid damage as this flooring is sensitive to moisture.
• Cannot be refinished or sanded down.
• Artificial appearance.
• Not as quiet as LVP.
• May be slippery to walk on.

Contact Carpet To Go for All Your Flooring Needs

 

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) vs laminate flooring, which is the best option for you? We can help.

 

Call us today or contact us online at Carpet To Go for all your flooring questions, quotes, and needs. We are available and ready to assist in providing you with the best flooring options for your home!