Essentially, they are both made of thin layers of vinyl. Laminate is a hard flooring, while LVT is a flexible material that is easy to install in many spaces. The difference between the two types of flooring lies in their durability and scratch resistance. Both types of flooring are ideal for high-traffic areas, as well as rooms with underfloor heating. While laminate is more expensive, LVT is more environmentally friendly, durable, and water-resistant.
Less expensive
There are pros and cons to less expensive laminate and LVT flooring. For example, while laminate is a great choice for homes with young children and pets, it is not as easy to clean as LVT or vinyl. Cleaning laminate and LVT flooring is fairly simple, but you might want to consider vinyl if you have a pet. Also, there are differences between the two types of flooring, so make sure you weigh the advantages and disadvantages before deciding.
While luxury vinyl tiles and vinyl planks can be quite expensive, less expensive laminate and LVT flooring can save you money. For example, a high-quality laminate product can cost from $5 to $12 per square foot, depending on the thickness and design. Similarly, these materials will also last for 10 to 25 years. These floors can also increase the resale value of a home.
More sustainable
Laminate and LVT flooring are several layers, including a durable vinyl backing, a protective colour vinyl layer, and a urethane or aluminium oxide top layer. While their durability and low cost are the main selling points of this flooring type, many consumers don’t realize the environmental costs of this product. Unfortunately, LVT is significantly more toxic than consumers may believe. The following are some ways to make your LVT or laminate flooring more sustainable.
Vinyl plank flooring typically contains polyvinyl chloride, which can emit VOCs even after installation. Because these materials cannot be recycled, they’re not considered sustainable flooring solutions. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, may contain VOCs in its adhesives and wear layer. In addition, both types are highly resistant to water, despite their similarities in aesthetics. Laminate flooring is often more durable than LVT, but it’s a good choice for bathrooms and mudrooms.
More durable
If you’re looking for a more durable floor covering, you should look into LVT or laminate flooring. Both are remarkably durable, and they have the added benefit of being waterproof. However, the biggest difference between these two flooring options is in their price. While LVT is more affordable and easier to install, laminate can be more difficult to repair, especially in wet areas. Laminate can also handle a high degree of moisture and traffic.
While LVT and laminate flooring are both hardwearing and durable, there are some key differences between them. LVT is more scratch-resistant, while laminate is more likely to be dented and worn down by daily use. Moreover, LVT is less likely to need replacing when it is damaged, while LVT does not require regular refinishing. However, both types of flooring can be replaced in a small section if they are damaged.
Less susceptible to moisture damage
While you may not think of these types of flooring as moisture-damaged, they can still be damaged if they are exposed to water. Fortunately, laminate and LVT flooring are less susceptible to damage from water than hardwood and tile floors. They both contain wear layers that protect against water damage. A small amount of water on a laminate floor shouldn’t pose too much of a problem, but any moisture that penetrates these layers can result in warping, swelling, and mold growth.
Both LVT flooring are durable, but they are less stain-resistant than wood. While wood floors may need refinishing and tile-flooring materials may need regrouting and resealing, laminate and LVT are easier to maintain. If a damaged plank appears, you can easily replace it. Laminate has an aluminum oxide wear layer that protects it from damage. LVT has a clear vinyl or urethane coating, which further makes them less vulnerable to moisture damage.