LVP vs. Laminate Flooring: Which is Right for Your Home?
- Room With a View
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
Choosing the right flooring is one of the most important decisions homeowners make when remodeling or building. Two of the most popular options on the market today are Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and laminate flooring. While both mimic the look of natural hardwood at a fraction of the cost, they offer different benefits depending on your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic goals.
Understanding LVP
Luxury Vinyl Plank is made from several layers of vinyl, topped with a high-resolution image layer and a clear protective coating. It is known for being 100% waterproof, making it an ideal choice for moisture-prone areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. LVP is durable, scratch-resistant, and quiet underfoot, often with a more cushioned feel than laminate. It's also easy to install, with many options designed to click and lock in place.
The Appeal of Laminate
Laminate flooring is composed of a fiberboard core topped with a photographic image layer and a hard protective finish. It is more rigid than LVP and often delivers a slightly more realistic wood texture thanks to its embossed surface. Laminate is a solid choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways where water exposure is minimal. It offers excellent scratch resistance and tends to feel firmer underfoot, which some homeowners prefer.
How They Compare
Moisture Resistance: LVP wins here. It can handle standing water without damage. Laminate, while sometimes marketed as “water-resistant,” can swell or warp when exposed to moisture for long periods.
Durability: Both options are strong, but LVP tends to perform better in high-traffic areas and homes with pets or kids.
Installation: Both LVP and laminate can be installed as floating floors, but LVP is often more forgiving on uneven subfloors.
Comfort and Sound: LVP generally has better sound insulation and a softer step, especially when it includes an attached underlayment.
Style and Appearance: Both come in a wide range of wood-look styles, but laminate may offer a more authentic texture due to its thicker wear layer.
Making Your Decision
Choosing between LVP and laminate flooring depends on where the flooring will be installed and how much wear and tear it will face. For wet or high-traffic areas, LVP is often the smarter choice. For dry spaces where you want a more traditional feel underfoot, laminate may be the better fit.
Need help deciding which option fits your home and lifestyle? Room with a View Contractors can walk you through your choices and ensure your flooring project turns out beautifully. Contact us today to get started!