Laminate and LVT/LVP flooring are both extremely durable, but they have their weaknesses. Laminate is prone to scratches and chipped corners over time, so vinyl is probably a better choice for your home if you have pets. LVT/LVP is scratch-resistant, but it's more vulnerable to denting and tearing.
Being plastic, LVT works well when wood is not really an option, like where there are frequent water spills or where mopping is required daily, like in a medical clinic. If you have frequent spills on your floor or need serious mopping on a regular basis, LVT is better than laminate flooring.
Heavy furniture can dent and mark vinyl floors, while sharp objects can pierce the upper layers. Discolouration: LVT flooring can suffer from sun damage if laid in conservatories or near south-facing doors/windows. The outer layer is not UV resistant and is liable to fading over time.
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.
Compared to laminate, vinyl flooring is a clear winner when considering moisture exposure. Vinyl flooring is made entirely from plastic which gives it superior moisture resistance. Even extended exposure to splashes and spills won't damage its surface.
Vinyl stands up the best against excess moisture and spills, and it can be less expensive than laminate. However, laminate gives a more realistic wood look to enhance the design aesthetic in your home.
Durability. Laminate and LVT/LVP flooring are both extremely durable, but they have their weaknesses. Laminate is prone to scratches and chipped corners over time, so vinyl is probably a better choice for your home if you have pets. LVT/LVP is scratch-resistant, but it's more vulnerable to denting and tearing.
The main difference between laminate and vinyl flooring is the materials they're made of. Vinyl is 100% synthetic, while laminate uses a fiberboard core constructed of wood byproducts. Thus, laminate flooring is not waterproof, while vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof.
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.
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.
While LVT is a little higher end than laminate, it looks more modern and is better able to stand the test of time…and water! Furthermore, when you replace damaged tile, laminate, or linoleum with LVT, you add to the resale value of your home.
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring can last up to 20 years but, as with anything, depends upon the quality, proper installation, and degree of care.
While these floors don't last as long as hardwood or natural stone, they often outlast others. These materials can last over 20 years with professional installation and regular care. Why the long lifespan? As with any flooring, you can customize these materials to your specifications.
Luxury vinyl tile and planks deliver everything homeowners want from their flooring. First, there's the durability and easy maintenance to consider—and it's waterproof. The ease of installation is important, too, along with the beauty and affordability.
Vinyl flooring, especially when installed with an underlayment, can minimize impact noise and provide a softer and more muted sound when walking or dropping items. Laminate flooring, without an underlayment, may produce a louder and hollower sound due to the nature of its construction.
LVT underlayment is an underlay specially formulated for laying beneath vinyl. Some luxury vinyl tiles have an inbuilt underlay, so a separate LVT underlayment is not necessary. Most quality vinyl tiles will be fully waterproof, so do not need a damp screen as part of the underlay.
“Luxury vinyl plank is making a major comeback in vacation homes and commercial properties,” Connell says. “The look of wood has come a long way.”
LVT will never look “cheap” — it will make your life easier and enhance the look and comfort of your home.
Vinyl isn't itself slippery, but like any flooring, it can become slippery under certain conditions. For instance, surface moisture, grease, and polish could all present a slipping hazard.
LVT flooring is ideal for those on a budget. For those who want flooring that's easy to maintain, then LVP is slightly easier to maintain than LVT. Both types of flooring options are easy to install, durable and available in an array of designs.
Cost-wise, basic LVT is similar to laminate, but choose luxury vinyl tile and you'll be paying considerably more.
It's important to note Pergo flooring is laminate flooring, which is different than LVP.
If you are environmentally conscious, bamboo flooring has spiked in popularity because of its sustainability. As long as you stick to a light finish, it will also do a great job of hiding dirt. Cork is another environmentally-conscious choice that does a good job of hiding dust and dirt.
Textured laminate is almost always a better choice for dog owners, although even textured laminate doesn't offer as much traction as vinyl. If you can find laminate flooring with enough texture to keep your dog's paws from slipping, it's a good low-cost, medium-maintenance option.
The outer layer of vinyl flooring is typically scratch-resistant, which means their claws can't scratch it up and their nails won't leave scratches when they get the zoomies. And, scratch-resistant flooring or not, it's always a good idea to trim your pet's nails so they stay comfortable.