Although there are many luxurious and affluent flooring options available, most of us need something at a cheaper price and easier maintenance. That’s why laminate and Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) are more affordable and worthy alternatives to natural products such as wood and stone. Both of them offer the promise of incredible durability and practicality – but when it comes to laminate vs vinyl, how exactly do they compare to each other?
Luxury Vinyl Tiles
Vinyl has been used in households and commercial use for many years. However many people will likely think of thin sheet vinyl rather than the comfortable, high quality Luxury Vinyl Tiles of today. LVT has grown enormously in popularity over the last few years. It’s highly durable and replicates natural products such as wood and slate effortlessly.
LVT has a protective wear layer, offering extra durability and protection against the wear and tear of everyday life, not to mention the resistance to stains, water and scratches. We’d recommend it for busy family households with pets and kids who have claws and toys that can scratch surfaces. Your LVT flooring will stand up to whatever is thrown at it! Additionally, it is also able to be used in conjunction with under floor heating, something that is popping up more and more in modern homes.
Laminate
Laminate has maintained its popularity for many years, but why is this? Like LVT, laminate is an impressive substitute for real wood. But again, it comes at a much lower price. Laminate is made up of a number of layers, which are then topped with a photo image of the desired surface and finished with a protective layer.
Laminate has a ‘click system’ which makes it incredibly easy to install. However it is often cheaper than LVT as well as being cheaper. This is perfect if you’re not into DIY and need something easy without being forced to hire an expensive fitter!
With modern laminate flooring, you don’t lose any any sort of durability. Like LVT, it will last many years after installation without showing wear. It is also resistant to scratches, stains and water. However, we’d think twice about laying it in rooms that see high exposure to these as they can cause damage. However, if you’re aware of this and take measures such as purchasing a rug to take much of the wear and tear.
One of laminate’s best qualities is that it is very easy to clean. It literally only needs a quick sweep a few times a week and the occasional mop with warm soapy water. This makes it one of the most hygienic choices of flooring on the market.
So, when it comes to laminate vs vinyl, what really differentiates them? We’d say LVT slightly trumps laminate in terms of practicality. This is mainly because it is fully resistant to water, stains and scratches. However, laminate tends to be cheaper, so you’ve just got to decide what’s more important to you!
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