🏆 10 Reasons Why LVT Is Better Than Laminate Flooring IN EVANSVILLE, IN.

🏆 10 Reasons Why LVT Is Better Than Laminate Flooring

(Luxury Vinyl Tile vs. Laminate Flooring: The In-Depth Showdown)

1. 100% Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant

LVT is made from layers of PVC (vinyl), which makes it completely impervious to water. That means no swelling, no buckling, and no damage—even if it's submerged temporarily.
Laminate, on the other hand, has a fiberboard core that absorbs moisture. Even “water-resistant” laminate can warp or delaminate with enough exposure, making it risky for bathrooms, kitchens, or basements.

✅ Ideal for: Bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, basements
❌ Laminate risk: Damaged by spills, pet accidents, and steam mops

2. Superior Durability

LVT is designed to withstand heavy traffic, scratches, and dents. It has a wear layer (often 12–20 mils thick or more in commercial-grade LVT) that resists scuffs, stains, and impact.
Laminate is fairly durable but can be scratched more easily, especially by pet claws or dragged furniture. It also chips more easily when damaged.

✅ LVT wear layer: Thicker, tougher
❌ Laminate: Can show wear faster in active homes

3. Easy Maintenance and Cleaning

LVT is low-maintenance. You can wet mop it, use mild cleaners, and not worry about ruining the floor.
Laminate requires more caution: too much moisture when cleaning can lead to swelling. Manufacturers often recommend using dry mops or slightly damp cloths only.

✅ LVT: Wet mop-friendly
❌ Laminate: Avoid water or steam mops

4. Better for Uneven or Imperfect Subfloors

LVT is more flexible and forgiving when installed over subfloors with minor imperfections. Some LVTs even have built-in underlayment, reducing prep work.
Laminate is rigid and brittle, and if the subfloor isn’t perfectly level, it can result in squeaking, gaps, or joint failure.

✅ LVT: Tolerant of subfloor imperfections
❌ Laminate: Requires perfectly level subfloor

5. Quieter and Softer Underfoot

Modern LVT often includes an acoustic backing or can be paired with underlayment to absorb sound and provide a soft, cushioned feel.
Laminate tends to be louder and can sound hollow or clicky when walked on, especially in rooms with minimal furniture.

✅ LVT: More comfort, less echo
❌ Laminate: Harder and noisier

6. Warmer and Compatible with Radiant Heating

LVT retains heat better than you might expect, especially with insulating underlayments or cork backing. It also works well with radiant heat systems, as long as installation guidelines are followed.
Some laminate floors are radiant-heat-compatible, but they require strict installation rules and may not perform as well in temperature fluctuation.

✅ LVT: Great for cozy, warm floors
❌ Laminate: Less consistent temperature performance

7. Hyper-Realistic Design and Texture

LVT design has come a long way. Advanced printing technology and embossing techniques create wood, stone, or ceramic looks that are incredibly realistic—often including registered embossing that aligns texture with grain patterns.
Laminate also mimics wood well, but its printed layer can feel more artificial underfoot and doesn't offer the same textural realism.

✅ LVT: Textured, realistic visuals
❌ Laminate: Looks good, feels less authentic

8. Easier Installation (Especially for DIYers)

LVT comes in click-lock, glue-down, or loose lay formats, offering flexibility for installation. Click-lock LVT is especially DIY-friendly and can be installed over existing floors.
Laminate requires very specific underlayments and expansion gaps, and is less forgiving with mistakes during install.

✅ LVT: More installation options
❌ Laminate: Tighter tolerances, harder fixes if messed up

9. Better for Commercial and High-Traffic Use

Because of its durability, waterproofing, and ease of maintenance, LVT is often used in commercial spaces like medical offices, restaurants, and retail stores.
Laminate doesn’t hold up as well under daily abuse, especially in environments with rolling carts, wet shoes, or dragging chairs.

✅ LVT: Trusted in heavy-use environments
❌ Laminate: Not ideal for commercial settings

10. Longer Lifespan in Moisture-Prone or Active Areas

LVT can last 15–25 years or more, especially when properly installed and maintained. Its resilience to water, scratches, and stains keeps it looking newer longer.
Laminate's lifespan is shorter in areas with moisture, pets, or frequent cleaning due to its vulnerability to swelling and surface damage.

✅ LVT: Long-lasting, reliable
❌ Laminate: May need replacement sooner in busy households

🧼 Bonus: Health and Indoor Air Quality

Most modern LVT products are low-VOC and FloorScore® certified, making them safe for indoor air quality.
Laminate can off-gas more depending on the adhesives and resins used in its manufacturing.

🧾 Final Verdict:

If you're looking for flooring that's:

• Waterproof

• Durable

• Stylish

• Low-maintenance

• Great for DIY and high-traffic spaces

LVT is the clear winner in most situations, especially for households with pets, kids, or moisture concerns.