Luxury Vinyl Plank vs Laminate Flooring: Which is the better choice?
LVP vs Laminate
When it comes to choosing a flooring option for your home, there are plenty of choices available on the market. However, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and laminate have become increasingly popular options for homeowners in recent years. While both offer several advantages, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we’ll compare LVP and laminate and help you decide which is the better choice for your home.
Durability
Both LVP and laminate are known for their durability, making them ideal for areas with high footfall like living rooms, kitchens, and hallways. However, LVP has the edge when it comes to durability. Made with a durable core of polymers and resins, it’s more resistant to scratches, stains, and dents than laminate, making it a great choice for families with kids and pets. Laminate, on the other hand, is more susceptible to scratches and can’t handle as much foot traffic as LVP.
Water Resistance
If you’re looking for a flooring option for your kitchen or bathroom, water resistance is a key consideration. LVP is 100% waterproof, meaning it can handle spills and moisture without warping or damaging the material. Laminate, on the other hand, is water-resistant but not waterproof. It can handle small spills, but must be cleaned immediately. Larger amounts of water can seep through the seams and damage the underlying layers if it is not taken care of.
Appearance
Both LVP and laminate come in a wide range of styles, colours, and patterns, so you can find one that matches your home’s decor. From wood effect, to stone, to tile, in as many colours as you can think of! However, LVP has the edge when it comes to authenticity. This will vary depending on the subjective opinion of the buyer as well as the quality of the products on offer. Both LVP and laminate flooring products can be either high or low quality, depending on the manufacturer and the individual product. Laminates, overall, are more versatile. You can buy budget laminate floors from as little as £8.99, and higher spec options from as much as £40 per square meter, which is more expensive than many LVP floors.
Installation
Both LVP and laminate are manufactured with click systems, making them relatively easy to install and can be done as a DIY project. However, LVP is generally easier to install than laminate. The planks are thinner and slot into place more seamlessly, but you must be careful to have a level floor when installing it. Laminate flooring requires more precision and skill to get the seams to align perfectly.
Cost
Finally, cost is always a consideration when it comes to home improvements. Both LVP flooring and laminate are relatively affordable compared to other flooring options like hardwood and tile. Laminate is generally cheaper than LVP, as covered before. However, if you’re looking for a long-lasting, durable flooring option, LVP may be a better investment in the long run due to its durability and water resistance.
In conclusion, both LVP and laminate flooring have their advantages and disadvantages. LVP is more durable, water-resistant, and authentic-looking, while laminate is cheaper and still an attractive option. Ultimately, the choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.