Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Vs Laminate: What's The Difference?

When it comes to deciding between luxury vinyl plank flooring and laminate flooring, it can be a difficult decision to make. Both types of flooring offer advantages and disadvantages, and both have their own unique features. In this article, we’ll compare the two, so you can make an informed decision on which type of flooring is best for your home.

Appearance

Both luxury vinyl plank and laminate flooring offer a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can easily find something to match your decor. However, luxury vinyl plank flooring has a more realistic look, with more textured detailing and a wider range of colors and patterns. Laminate flooring is also available in a variety of colors and patterns, but it tends to look more artificial and lacks the textured detailing of luxury vinyl plank.

Durability

When it comes to durability, luxury vinyl plank flooring is the clear winner. It is scratch-resistant, water-resistant, and can stand up to heavy foot traffic. Laminate flooring is also durable, but it is not as scratch-resistant or water-resistant as luxury vinyl plank flooring.

Maintenance

Both luxury vinyl plank and laminate flooring are relatively easy to maintain. You should sweep and mop your floors regularly to prevent dirt and debris from collecting. For luxury vinyl plank, you should also use a damp mop occasionally to keep the floors looking their best. Laminate flooring should be cleaned with a damp mop and mild detergent.

Installation

When it comes to installation, luxury vinyl plank flooring is much easier to install than laminate flooring. Luxury vinyl plank can be installed as a ‘floating’ floor, meaning it doesn’t need to be attached to the subfloor. Laminate flooring requires the use of adhesive and needs to be attached to the subfloor.

Cost

When it comes to cost, luxury vinyl plank and laminate flooring are comparable, with both being relatively affordable. The cost of materials and installation will depend on the type and quality of the flooring, as well as the size of the area being covered. Generally, luxury vinyl plank is slightly more expensive than laminate.

Conclusion

When choosing between luxury vinyl plank flooring and laminate flooring, it’s important to consider your budget, the level of maintenance you’re willing to do, and the look and feel you want to achieve. Luxury vinyl plank offers a more realistic look, is scratch-resistant, water-resistant and easier to install, while laminate flooring is more affordable and available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of flooring best suits your needs.