Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and laminate are two widely used flooring options by most people looking in their houses. Laminate flooring is a great choice for homeowners, but it’s not the only option. There are plenty of other options out there, including LVT tile, which has many advantages over laminate flooring.
Both options offer a range of benefits and are widely used for both residential and commercial spaces, but LVT has several advantages that make it a better choice in certain situations. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why you should consider using LVT instead of laminate.
Reasons To Select LVT Flooring Over Laminate
1. Durability
LVT flooring is made from multiple layers of vinyl, making it more durable and resistant to wear and tear in everyday use. It is scratch, stain, and fade-resistant and can tolerate high foot traffic. It is immune to damage over time through abrasion, gouges and dents.
On the other hand, laminate is composed of layers of particleboard and is vulnerable to dents and scratches. It is made from a type of plastic that can break down over time and lose its strength. This means that it will eventually become damaged and need to be replaced or repaired. Additionally, it also has a limited lifespan, meaning that you will have to replace it sooner or later.
If you are planning on using your home as an investment property, or if you have children or pets who love to run around on the floor, then you will want something that will stand up to wear and tear over time. Vinyl tile is an ideal option for such homeowners and if you are looking to install them in your home or commercial spaces, then visit the best LVT online marketplace and shop a wide range of luxury vinyl flooring available in plank, tile or sheet vinyl options.
2. Water resistance
Due to its high level of water resistance, LVT flooring is a fantastic option for bathrooms, kitchens, and other spill-prone spaces. It is an ideal option for those who live in apartment buildings with an older plumbing system, or if you have pets or children who are prone to spilling drinks onto the floor.
Laminate, on the other hand, is not water-resistant and can be damaged by standing water. It can absorb moisture from liquids more easily than other types of floors like ceramic tiles or wood parquet flooring. This can lead to mold growth if no precautions are taken by owners who have pets or children living with them who may inadvertently spill liquid onto their floors.
3. Easy maintenance
LVT flooring is a great option for homeowners looking for an easy-to-clean, low-maintenance flooring solution. It can be wiped down with a damp mop or cloth and does not require any special cleaning products. Furthermore, they don’t have any grout lines or joints between the tiles which makes it easier for you to keep them looking good all the time.
While LVT flooring is not immune to scratches or stains, it does require less maintenance, laminate, on the other hand, requires more frequent cleaning and may require special cleaners to maintain its appearance. It tends to stain easily, especially if it gets wet or dirty. This can lead to unsightly messes on your home’s hardwood floors.
4. Comfort
Living in a home with LVT flooring is more comfortable than living in a home with laminate flooring. LVT flooring is made up of layers of vinyl and polyurethane which provides a cushiony feeling to your feet. It is more comfortable to walk on than laminate because it has a softer, cushioned feel. People who suffer joint pain or spend a lot of time on their feet can particularly benefit from this.
Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is made up of layers of wood and glue that can make your feet feel uncomfortable. Furthermore, it is a synthetic material which requires a lot of maintenance and does not come with a warranty.
5. Aesthetics
With LVT flooring, you can choose from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures including natural stone and wood looks. It is perfectly designed to complement your home’s interior design scheme and different home decor while still providing a functional surface. If you are looking to replace your old carpet with something more durable and attractive, LVT flooring may be just what you need.
Laminate, on the other hand, can often look fake and lacks a realistic texture of vinyl tiles. They are not many options when it comes to designs and textures. There are limited home decor options with laminate flooring.
6. Installation
LVT flooring is a type of resilient, vinyl-based flooring that is easy to install and requires less time and effort. It is widely used for both residential and commercial spaces because of its superior installation. Additionally, it is made of thick pieces of vinyl that are glued together to create the finished product. This means that you will be able to save money and will not have to hire someone else to do it for you.
Laminate, on the contrary, requires more work and could be more expensive when it comes to installation. If you want to have a custom-made floor that looks like real wood, then LVT is the better choice.
The Bottom-line
Overall, LVT flooring offers numerous benefits over laminate flooring. It is a durable, water-resistant, and low-maintenance option that offers a wide range of design options and a comfortable feel. While laminate may be a cheaper option, LVT offers better value in the long run due to its durability and ease of maintenance.
However, if you are looking to install vinyl flooring, make sure to select the right type of flooring which includes LVT tile and LVT plank. The type of flooring you select should depend on what you are looking for on a floor. If you are looking for something durable, affordable, and of good quality in your home or commercial space, LVT is worth considering as a superior alternative to laminate.