It’s easy to mix up laminate and luxury vinyl planks. They look almost the same, act as alternatives to hardwood and use the click-and-lock installation method. Knowing the differences can save you money and other headaches down the line.
What’s the biggest difference? It comes down to water. One is water-resistant, while the other is referred to as waterproof. At Easton Flooring, we’ve made it our goal to help homeowners understand the difference between laminate and luxury vinyl for over two decades. Let’s get into it.
What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate planks consist of multiple layers pressed together. Topped with a wear layer and a photographic image layer that resembles hardwood, each plank is supported by a high-density core and backing layer for additional stability. Because of this, laminate flooring in Willow Grove is still durable and scratch-resistant with a convincing wood appearance.
What’s the limitation? Laminate is water-resistant, not waterproof. This means if water gets underneath the planks and reaches the fiberboard core, it can swell up and warp. The good thing? Manufacturers have worked hard to improve laminate over the years, better locking mechanisms help keep water from penetrating joints and seams, but the core material remains vulnerable to prolonged moisture exposure.
Laminate is best in low-moisture areas like bedrooms, living rooms, offices and dining rooms. It’s a great option if you want that hardwood look without the hefty price tag.
What is Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) consists of PVC plastic and stands out for its layered construction. This makes the material waterproof. Spills, humidity and moisture won’t damage the material like it would with laminate. The waterproof core opens up installation possibilities laminate can’t compete with.
Luxury vinyl flooring in Willow Grove is rising in popularity because it offers a real hardwood floor look, but fights back against moisture. Mop it, spill on it and install it in basements without worrying about water damage.
SPC vs. WPC: Two Types of Luxury Vinyl
Luxury vinyl flooring falls into one of two categories:
- SPC (Stone Plastic Composite): This rigid stone-based core is stable and dense so it can easily handle temperature changes without expanding or contracting. This is great for busy areas of the home and basements where temperatures fluctuate. SPC is firm and solid underfoot.
- WPC (Wood Plastic Composite): This foam core feels softer and warmer underfoot so it’s better at absorbing sound. Because of this, it’s a popular choice in bedrooms, living spaces and upstairs where you want to reduce noise between floors.
Both options are waterproof. Which one is better? It comes down to where you’re installing your flooring and if rigidity or comfort is more important.
Trying to decide which type of flooring is right for your home? Visit our Willow Grove showroom to see samples up-close and discuss your project.
Where to Install Laminate vs. Luxury Vinyl
The right material comes down to your moisture level and how you’re using your space. Here’s our advice:
- Use laminate in: Bedrooms, living rooms, offices and dining where moisture isn’t a concern. In climate-controlled spaces, laminate can thrive with its scratch resistance and wood appearance without the moisture risk.
- Use luxury vinyl (SPC or WPC) in: Kitchens, basements, entryways and bathrooms where waterproofing is important. Think about rooms where spills happen, humidity exists or where moisture could come up through the subfloor.
- With luxury vinyl, choose SPC for: High-traffic spaces, basements with temperature swings and space where stability and durability come first.
- Within luxury vinyl, choose WPC for: Bedrooms, living spaces and upstairs areas where you prefer a softer, quieter feel underfoot.
Think about your room’s moisture levels and foot traffic. It will make the decision more straightforward than you think.
Making the Right Choice
Both laminate and luxury vinyl are affordable alternatives to hardwood. Laminate resists scratches and provides a convincing wood look for dry areas. Meanwhile, luxury vinyl has a waterproof core so you can install anywhere in your home.
At Easton Flooring, we’ve been helping homeowners throughout East Montgomery and Bucks County since 2004. We recognize materials have dramatically improved over the years, but you should always match flooring to the room’s conditions.
Ready to learn more about your options? Visit our Willow Grove flooring showroom or contact us to book a consultation today!
