What is the difference between Laminate and Vinyl Plank Floors?
It can be difficult to tell the difference between laminate and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) floors.
While the products look virtually identical, there are many key differences.
Both types of flooring are made in a wide variety of colors, designs and quality. Knowing the differences can help you select the best flooring for your home and avoid regrets.
Construction
The biggest difference between laminate & LVP is in the construction. LVP is a vinyl product. The vast majority of LVP (including the LVP we carry at Lifestyle Floors) is waterproof. It can be installed in the entire home including bathrooms and kitchens.
Laminate flooring is a wood-based product. Some laminate floors are “water resistant.” At Lifestyle Floors we care about the longevity and practicality of the flooring we sell and we only carry “water resistant” laminate floors. Since standing water can damage “water resistant” floors over time we encourage our clients to consider how much water the floor will be exposed to before selecting.
Hardness & Thickness
Laminate floors are typically thicker and have a more rigid feel. If you are looking for a floor that is softer to walk on an LVP is a good option.
Impact Resistance
All flooring can be dented and scratched, even cement. Typically, a laminate floor is harder and more impact resistant than a LVP.
Most people want to prevent scratch marks on their floors. One option that can reduce scratch marks is to select a floor with a thicker wear layer.
We use the term “scratch resistant,” not “scratch-proof” because we want to help our customers understand how to select a quality floor for their lifestyle and protect their floors.
Heat
If a floor gets direct sunlight from a window, especially a southern facing window, the floor may increase in temperature. Vinyl floors are particularly susceptible to expansion under direct sunlight or heat. The floor can potentially deform. A laminate floor is more stable but can still respond to temperature and humidity changes.
It is recommended to use blinds or window coverings to protect both vinyl and laminate floors.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Let’s be honest, we all want an indestructible floor. However, the best protection is basic cleaning and maintenance to help your floors look beautiful long-term.
We recommend similar care for both laminate and LVP floors.
Use furniture pads when moving furniture and refrain from dropping heavy objects on the floors.
Sweep and dry mop with a neutral PH hardwood cleaner.
Steam mopping can damage a laminate floor and we recommend refraining from steam mopping LVP floors as well.
Both laminate and LVP floors are good options for homes in Colorado.
We welcome you to visit our showroom or call 719-203-4094 to talk with a design specialist and discuss all your flooring projects in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
