LVT vs Laminate Flooring | Choosing the Right Flooring Option

In the world of hard surface flooring, LVT and laminate are highly popular materials among homeowners. Laminate is a synthetic, multi-layer flooring material recognized for durability, affordability, and ease of install. On the other hand, luxury vinyl tiles are a semi-flexible flooring solution that looks and feels like neutral materials.

Over two decades these flooring materials were used in both residential and commercial properties. However, they both have many different characteristics and offer a diverse level of comfort and flexibility. So below is the comparison between LVT and laminate flooring.

Luxury Vinyl Tile vs. Laminate Flooring

Besides diverse characteristics, both lvt and laminate flooring have some equality. Most importantly, their looks and style replicate natural materials. In fact, they both have limitless customization options in color, texture, and patterns. Still, there are some relatable distinctions available that help to determine compatibility with your floor.

1. Material Composition

Luxury vinyl tiles are mainly synthetic materials Primarily made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This is also a multi-layer flooring solution, including

Wear layer – The transparent top layer offers durability and stretch resistance.
Print layer – it replicates a high resolution image like a neutral style.
Core layer – made with solid PVC which offers flexibility and stability.
Backing layer – provides additional stability and moisture resistance.

Laminate is also a multi-layer material with a primary core of high-density fiberboard. This is a wood-based composite flooring prepared by pressing tiny wood fibers under high pressure and heat. The laminate surface also has layers, including wear, print, HDF core, and backing layer. This flooring solution offers rigidity and strength on the surface.

2. Looks and Design

When it comes to looks and design both lvt vs laminate replicate even outcomes. Indeed, both materials are prepared by 3D printing technology. It means they have multiple layers with high-definition visuals on top. By installing them on the floor, you can achieve a natural-looking style as wood and stone. However, the price may differ in the outcomes of the LVT and laminate flooring. Additionally, few experts believe laminate flooring tends to appear as the wood floor looks, while LVT offers both wood and stone appearance.

Still, these materials have limitless customizable and designable options. You can easily find LVT and laminate panels in different sizes, colors, and patterns.

3. Durability and Performance

As we know, both lvt and laminate material are constructed by similar processes, including wear, print, and backing layer; however, the core layer is different.

Laminate is made of high-density fiberwood, which is a recycled version of hardwood. This material is not waterproof and tends to get damaged by moisture. So avoid installing these panels in high moisture or humid places. Installed laminate flooring should be constructed near climate-controlled areas. This is also a hard material and tends to become hollow over time. That’s why the subfloor underneath the panels should be smooth and even.

Luxury vinyl tiles, however, have a different story. This is a hard and closed-cell material that has better moisture resistance, making it ideal for highly humid areas. So it became a better choice at places like the bathroom, kitchens or laundries. Additionally, the tiles can expand and contract in high-traffic areas.

4. Application

Applications of these materials depend on their strength and weakness. As mentioned, the laminate floor is prone to water damage, while LVT panels won’t. In this scenario, LVT tiles are ideal for high moisture areas due to their water-resistant capabilities. Similarly, these flooring solutions work better in high-traffic areas for higher flexibility.

On the other hand, laminate floors better go with dry areas where climate is controlled. Besides, these panels work better to achieve a classic wood floor look.

5. Costing

The cost difference between LVT and laminate is quite similar. You can find these flooring panels in between $5 – $50 per square foot. However, most laminate panels come cheaper than premium vinyl tiles. Base price of laminate floor costs between $1 – $5 per square foot while lvt costs $2 – $7 per square foot. But if you consider higher value over price, the Lvt floor comes forward.

6. Maintenance and Care

Both lvt and laminate panels are considered easy to maintain and clean. However there are few distincts available between them.

Lvt is waterproof, making it easier to clean with damp cloths. On the other hand, laminate floors are prone to water damage more easily. So you have to take special care of them and avoid remaining moisture near the flooring system.

Which is Better in a Wet Environment, Laminate Flooring or LVT?

When talking about wet environments, LVT flooring stands better than laminate. Indeed, premium vinyl tiles are waterproof and easily handle spills and even standing water without wrapping or swelling. They have better water-resistant capabilities and do not easily get damaged by moisture like laminate floors.

Which is the “greener” Flooring Choice?

Indeed, laminate flooring is greener by far than LVT tiles. It’s because laminate panels are made from high-density fiberboard (HDF), which are wood by-products. It is a natural, renewable resource, meaning recycled materials. On the other hand, LVT is completely made of synthetic materials meaning petrochemicals and chlorides. You should’ve known that this is the most toxic substance in the flooring industry. Production of PVC material involves harsh chemicals, whereas complete eco-friendly porches prepare laminate.

What is the Lifespan of LVT Flooring?

On average, luxury vinyl tiles have a lifespan of 20-25 years. It’s because the tiles come with multiple layers of protection and have better durability from its core. People more often use these flooring systems on busy households and commercial properties.

What is the Lifespan of Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring lifespan has an average of 10-15 years. However, it can go up to 25 years or 30 years, depending on your maintenance and care. Remember, these panels tend to be damaged by excess moisture, so you need to take special care of them.

Is LVT Better Than Laminate for Uneven Floors?

Both laminate and LVT panels can be installed on slightly uneven floors. However, LVT tiles have better stability and flexibility, meaning they can expand on high-traffic or uneven floors. Still, it depends on the installation and correct positioning of the panels.

Conclusion

That is the complete comparison between lvt and laminate floor. We hope you get a clear answer related to the topic. Undoubtedly, both flooring materials offer neutral design and durability over your home surface. Maybe there are few differences available between them. Still, the materials are valuable in many aspects. So, if you focus on recycled and natural materials that come cheaper, you can consider laminate flooring. In contrast, people who Prioritize long lifespan and lower replacement consider premium vinyl tiles.