LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) and Laminate flooring are both hard surface flooring options that provide a wide variety of beautiful and aesthetically pleasing hardwood or tile looks. Both contain a wear layer that helps protect them from everyday traffic, scratches and dents. They both have various ways of installation i.e.: Grip Strip, Click Lock, or Glue Down. LVP and Laminate are also very comparable in price.

Both LVP and Laminate flooring options have at least 4 layers:

D.) A backing which floats or sticks to the subfloor
C.) The core which provides the thickness and core of the flooring
B.) The decorative layer which is a print of the wood or tile look you have chosen
A.) The wear layer (usually a resin) that helps protect the floor from damage such as scratches or dents.
· For residential areas it is recommended to have a wear layer of 12 mil
· For commercial areas it is recommended to have a wear layer of 28 mil

Why Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring is better than Laminate Flooring

LVP is Waterproof. We recommend LVP over Laminate flooring because LVP is waterproof and Laminate is water-resistant. The difference between the two is in the materials used to make up the layers. Laminate is made from wood-based materials that can warp or bend when exposed to moisture, humidity or water. LVP is made from vinyl which is waterproof, and most closely mimics the look of real wood.

This allows LVP to excel in any room but especially rooms with expected water or humidity such as basements, laundry rooms, bathrooms and kitchens. It can be mopped without concern over water damage allowing you to maintain it’s beautiful look worry free.

Withstanding water damage, LVP, depending on the installation method, can be flooded, taken off, dried and placed back down after repairs have been made to the subfloor. Laminate flooring would need to be replaced after any kind of long-term water exposure.

LVP is also able to handle wear and tear from pets and young children better. Pet urine accidents clean up in a snap, the material resists scratching and is also better for resale value.

Cost of LVP vs Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is slightly more affordable, likely due to the fact that it is not waterproof and can scratch more easily. On average you can expect to pay between $1-$5 per square foot without installation. Pricing usually depends on quality as well. Luxury Vinyl Floor costs about $2-$7 per square foot with thickness and quality also being a price factor.

Of course prices vary greatly by brand, style, thickness, design, color, and quality. These are just ballpark prices you can expect to pay on average.

Since LVP has the look of wood floor without the upkeep of staining or buffing over time, its an affordable choice. Stay worry free and choose LVP as a floor option for your entire home!