A question we are so often asked: laminate vs LVT flooring: Which Is Better for Everyday Use?
When it comes to choosing new flooring, many homeowners find themselves deciding between laminate and LVT (luxury vinyl tile). At first glance, they look quite similar—but their performance in everyday life is very different.
So, which flooring option is best for your home? In this guide, our Peterborough flooring experts compare laminate and LVT side by side, covering cost, durability, and moisture resistance, to help you make the right choice.
Which Is More Budget-Friendly: Laminate or LVT?
If you’re working within a budget, laminate flooring is often the more affordable option. It offers a wide range of styles at a lower price point, making it attractive for larger areas like living rooms or bedrooms.
That said, if long-term durability is a priority, LVT may be worth the investment. Thanks to its waterproof construction, it typically lasts longer in busy households where spills, pets, and heavy foot traffic are part of daily life.
Which Flooring Is More Durable for Everyday Use?
LVT flooring is designed with practicality in mind. It’s not only 100% waterproof but also extremely hard-wearing, making it perfect for kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms. Everyday footfall, cleaning, and even the occasional accident won’t cause lasting damage.
Laminate flooring is also tough and can handle regular use. However, it’s only water-resistant—not waterproof. If spills are left for too long (usually over 72 hours), moisture can seep into the high-density fibres, causing swelling or delamination. For this reason, we recommend cleaning laminate with a microfibre spray mop rather than a traditional mop and bucket. This ensures the floor stays clean without the risk of water damage.
Can Laminate or LVT Flooring Be Used in Bathrooms?
When it comes to wet areas like bathrooms, LVT is the clear winner. Because it’s waterproof, you don’t have to worry about water from baths, showers, or mopping seeping into the flooring. Kids’ spillages, puppy accidents, and everyday cleaning are no problem with LVT.
Laminate, on the other hand, isn’t recommended for bathrooms or wet rooms. While water-resistant, it simply can’t offer the same level of protection as LVT or sheet vinyl.
Which Flooring Is Best for Your Home?
Both laminate and LVT flooring have their strengths. Laminate is cost-effective and stylish, making it a great choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and low-moisture areas. LVT offers unbeatable durability and waterproof performance, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic spaces.
Laminate vs LVT Flooring: Pros & Cons
| Feature | Laminate Flooring | LVT Flooring |
|---|---|---|
| Cost |
✅ More affordable than LVT ✅ Great for large areas on a budget ❌ May not last as long in high-moisture areas |
❌ Higher upfront cost ✅ Long-lasting investment |
| Durability |
✅ Hard-wearing for everyday use ❌ Susceptible to water damage if spills aren’t cleaned quickly |
✅ Extremely durable ✅ Resistant to scratches, dents, and wear |
| Moisture Resistance |
❌ Only water-resistant ❌ Not suitable for bathrooms or wet rooms |
✅ 100% waterproof ✅ Ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms |
| Cleaning & Maintenance |
❌ No mop & bucket (risk of swelling) ✅ Best cleaned with microfibre spray mop |
✅ Can be cleaned with mop & bucket ✅ Easy to maintain even with kids & pets |
| Style Options |
✅ Wide range of realistic wood finishes ✅ Stylish and budget-friendly designs |
✅ Wide variety of wood, stone, and tile looks ✅ Often more realistic textures |
| Installation |
✅ DIY-friendly click system ✅ Faster to install in some cases |
❌ Often requires professional fitting ✅ Very stable once laid |
If you’re still unsure which option suits your lifestyle best, our team is here to help.
👉 Visit our flooring showroom in Peterborough to explore our wide range of laminate and LVT flooring, or get in touch with our experts for tailored advice on the perfect fit for your home.
