Laminate flooring is made of layers. The primary layer (the core) is made of high-density fiberboard that gives laminate flooring its rigidity and strength. LVT is made in layers as well; its primary component is PVC vinyl, which makes LVT dimensionally stable and flexible. They install differently.
Vinyl flooring clearly is a better choice in high-moisture environments than laminate flooring, making it an excellent choice in bathrooms. But for whole-house installations, laminate flooring often makes sense because it offers a wide range of choices.
While costs are similar, the value of premium vinyl far exceeds that of laminate based on quality and value. Unlike laminate, premium vinyl is durable and stable, resistant to moisture and climate, and is easy to install and maintain. Laminate is restricted to light traffic and low moisture applications.
Vinyl flooring is more water-resistant than laminate.
In fact, all types of vinyl flooring are considered waterproof because sheet vinyl, LVT, and LVP are made with materials that are 100% waterproof.
Laminate and vinyl planks feature plastic design and wear layers. But vinyl planks also have plastic cores, while laminate cores are made from wood composites. This is one of the most important differences between the products.
While LVP is extremely durable, it isn't totally indestructible. Luxury vinyl flooring can dent and even scratch or scuff, especially from heavy appliances, furniture, or other weighty objects. Just because it's resistant to something doesn't mean it's impervious to it.
So, now for the big question: which is more expensive —vinyl or laminate? Truthfully, both products are pretty comparable in cost as both are less expensive options than other flooring materials like hardwood or porcelain tile. Vinyl can be pricier, though, especially if you're exploring luxury vinyl options.
So let's answer the above question. Luxury vinyl flooring comes with a strong top layer that resists staining and scratching, not to mention other abrasions as well. It is functional, durable, and attractive to look at. It is also easy on your budget and practically maintenance-free.
The excellent scratch resistance you'll find in LVP flooring comes from a protective wear layer that also protects against stains, scuffs, dents, and other forms of daily wear. It's the perfect option for busy rooms, especially with pets and children in the home.
Luxury Vinyl Tiles or Planks
At first glance, you might think of vinyl flooring as low-end, but manufacturers now produce high-end vinyl flooring tiles or planks that adapt to many uses in a luxury home. They produce the flooring in a huge array of colors and patterns, some of which mimic stone or wood finishes.
Due to their synthetic material compositions, both types of flooring will quite naturally feel a little plastic-like to the touch. Laminate is generally more shiny in appearance, and LVT is normally quieter underfoot.
LVT will never look “cheap” — it will make your life easier and enhance the look and comfort of your home.
Looks & Feels Like Real Wood
If you want the look and feel of real wood, but don't want the upkeep, luxury vinyl flooring is your best option. Luxury vinyl, especially engineered vinyl plank, looks so much like real wood that many guests to your home will inevitably mistake it for hardwood.
Luxury Vinyl Tiles are durable. LVT tiles contain plasticizers that do not break down over time, making it tough against damage.
Although they have a lot in common, including very similar looks, they share some major differences. Vinyl is 100% water resistant and made of virgin vinyl, while laminate has a HDF wooden core.
Known for its exceptional durability and longevity, luxury vinyl is protected by a well-designed, scruff-and-scratch-resistant “wear layer.” This surface layer is so hardwearing, in fact, that the underlying design layer will never fade or wear away underfoot (a common misconception).
While luxury vinyl flooring has come a long way from its creation and has increased in durability and visual appeal, unfortunately vinyl may decrease your resale value in the long run. It's important to recognize that while you may spend less on vinyl vs. hardwood, the ROI may be less.
Will the luxury vinyl tile flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond? Yes and no. Luxury vinyl tiles will maintain popularity, but luxury vinyl planks will take off over the next decade while LVT stays consistent.
Vinyl is a favorite flooring option for kitchens and bathrooms and also makes great flooring for dogs that pee, as it's very resistant to liquids and easy to clean.
If you purchase high quality, thick luxury vinyl flooring--whether plank or tile and have it installed correctly and maintain it well, you can expect a lifespan of 25 or 30 years.
The durability and thickness of the flooring greatly affects how long LVP flooring will last. If installed correctly and maintained appropriately, the flooring can last from 10-20 years depending on location and the thickness installed.
Ease of Installation
When comparing vinyl plank to laminate, it's a close race as to which is easier to install. However, the installation of vinyl plank requires fewer tools and steps, so it's the superior choice in this category.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring costs $2 to $5 per square foot on average for the materials and $4 to $13 per square foot with labor.
LVP vs. LVT. LVP comes in a plank shape and often offers the look of real hardwood with realistic scraping or embossing. LVT comes in the traditional tile squares, features more stone and concrete looks, includes surface texture for a lifelike look, and can even be installed with grout.