Choosing the right flooring for your home can be overwhelming, especially when deciding between Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and laminate flooring. Both are stylish, durable, and cost-effective alternatives to real wood or stone, but they have key differences that make each better suited for certain spaces.
At Deluxe Floors, we offer high-quality LVT and laminate flooring, and in this guide, we’ll break down the differences to help you decide which is best for your home.
What Is LVT Flooring?
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a multi-layered, waterproof flooring made from rigid SPC (Stone Polymer Composite) or flexible PVC. It mimics real wood, stone, or tile with a durable wear layer, making it ideal for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
✔ 100% waterproof – Perfect for areas prone to spills and moisture.
✔ Soft & warm underfoot – Feels comfortable to walk on.
✔ Extremely durable – Resists scratches, dents, and stains.
✔ Built-in underlay – Reduces noise and improves comfort.
✔ Easy to install – Click system for DIY-friendly fitting.
What Is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is made from compressed fibreboard (HDF) with a printed wood-effect layer, topped with a protective coating. It provides a realistic wood look at an affordable price.
✔ Budget-friendly – Generally cheaper than LVT.
✔ Scratch-resistant – Great for high-traffic areas.
✔ Authentic wood effect – Natural-looking finishes.
✔ Easy to install – Click-lock system allows for quick fitting.
✔ Durable – Holds up well against daily wear and tear.
LVT vs. Laminate: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | LVT Flooring | Laminate Flooring |
---|---|---|
Water Resistance | 100% waterproof | Water-resistant but not waterproof |
Durability | Highly durable, resists scratches, dents & stains | Durable but more prone to moisture damage |
Comfort Underfoot | Softer, quieter, and warmer | Harder underfoot, can be noisier |
Installation | Click-fit system, easy DIY | Click-fit system, easy DIY |
Underfloor Heating | Fully compatible | Compatible, but can be affected by heat & moisture |
Cost | Higher upfront cost | More affordable |
Best For | Kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, high-traffic areas | Bedrooms, living rooms, low-moisture areas |
Which Flooring Is Best for Your Home?
Choose LVT If:
✔ You need 100% waterproof flooring for kitchens, bathrooms, or utility rooms.
✔ You want a softer, quieter feel underfoot for improved comfort.
✔ You need a highly durable floor that resists scratches and dents.
Choose Laminate If:
✔ You want an affordable wood-look flooring for dry areas like bedrooms or living rooms.
✔ You need a durable and scratch-resistant surface for high-traffic areas.
✔ You prefer a rigid, solid feel underfoot.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
Both LVT and laminate flooring are excellent choices, offering beautiful designs, durability, and easy maintenance. The best option depends on where you’re installing it and your lifestyle needs.
At Deluxe Floors, we offer a wide range of both LVT and laminate flooring in a variety of styles, colours, and finishes. Whether you’re after waterproof durability or an affordable wood effect, we have the perfect flooring for you!