LVP vs. Laminate Flooring

In recent months, several people have asked for my opinion on LVP (luxury vinyl planks) and laminate flooring. While I firmly believe that there is nothing that beats the authenticity of a hardwood floor, I do believe that both are excellent choices if you’re looking for budget-friendly flooring solutions. 

Each option has its own set of advantages and drawbacks, making it essential to understand their differences before making a decision. Grab a drink (I’m currently enjoying a Diet Coke) and comfy chair and let’s dive in!

LVP 

Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP) is a vinyl floor that has gained popularity over the years for its affordability, durability, ease of installation, and aesthetic versatility. It does a good job mimicking the look of natural materials like wood or stone while offering practical benefits. 

Laminate Flooring 

Alternatively, Laminate flooring consists of a photographic layer covered by a clear protective layer and a fiberboard backing. In the past, laminate flooring often gained a bad reputation because it would bubble if it got any moisture around it; luckily, times have changed and the product has improved drastically.

While LVP and laminate are sometimes difficult to differentiate, they do have their significant differences. When choosing between the two, I begin by considering factors such as 

• Realistic appearance

• Water resistance (Waterproof and Floodproof)

• Scratch resistance

• Durability

• Ease of care and repair

• Sound reduction

• Price

Imagine the space you're currently designing. Now, let's do a step-by-step comparison of these factors with that space in mind. 

Which Floor is More Realistic in Appearance? 

Based on my discussions with various flooring experts, the general consensus is that laminate tends to look more realistic. The primary reasons are its less shiny appearance and more realistic texture and grain. It is helpful to know that laminate floors have been around longer and have benefited from advancements made in printing technology.

Water Resistance (Waterproof and Floodproof) 

Since LVP flooring is vinyl, you can technically soak it in water indefinitely and experience zero damage; unfortunately, this isn't the case for laminate flooring. However, both types of flooring offer full or partial water resistance. This means that if you were to spill water on the floor, it would just sit on top of the flooring and not soak in. 

It’s important to note that this doesn't apply to flooding. Just because a product is considered waterproof or water resistant does not mean it is floodproof. A disadvantage with either floor type is that when the water seeps under the floor through the cracks or the sides, the floor will have to be ripped out and be replaced. While researching, I came across a video of a flooring installer who said that they actually have more problems with LVP flooring because many people do not properly install a moisture barrier resulting in humidity build up that causes the joints to crack. 

Experts have told me that they believe that laminate locking systems are better and tighter and can help minimize water damage. If you do decide to move forward with LVP or laminate and the space you are envisioning is a bathroom, be sure to seal the edges because that is where water is most likely to get under the flooring.

Scratch Resistance

Short and straight to the point, laminate is the sure winner here! LVP tends to show micro scratches more while laminate has a melamine layer that is more scratch and dent resistant.

Ease of Care and Repair

Good news, both floors are easy to care for! Most manufacturers recommend sweeping, vacuuming and using a Swiffer-type mop to clean. Avoid any harsh chemicals and stick to a cleaner with a neutral PH. If you get a nick or a gouge in your floor, laminate is slightly easier to fix. Lastly, extreme heat can cause colors to fade with LVP, so it is always good to consider window coverings to avoid this.

Sound Reduction

LVP flooring offers the best sound reduction of any hard flooring material.  It is a great choice for applications where noise reduction is a priority.  Laminate flooring doesn’t offer significant sound reduction on its own. It is a hard surface material that doesn’t absorb sound well.

Price

There are varying levels of cost when choosing either LVP or laminate. The thicker the flooring the more it will be resistant to heat and warping. One flooring installer suggested staying away from entry-level LVP and choosing something more mid to high-level. 

Not To Sway You, But…

Similar to other interior design decisions, deciding between LVP and laminate ultimately depends on your individual needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. I do want to say from my experience, the majority of flooring representatives I have spoken with have favored laminate. Surprising, right?! I think this is unexpected because of the terrible reputation that laminate has had in the past. I’m excited that laminate is making a comeback and think that now might be a good time to give laminate a chance.

No matter which affordable flooring option you decide on, I hope my personal experience and research provides clarity on the advantages, drawbacks, warranties, and costs associated with laminate and LVP. If you have any more questions, need help brainstorming ideas, or just need support during this decision-making process, please don't hesitate to reach out via email or phone!

With love, 

Jeri