Two of the most popular hard flooring choices right now are Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and laminate. Both look fantastic, both are affordable, and both come in a huge range of wood and stone effects. But they are not the same product — and choosing the wrong one for your room can be a costly mistake.
At Cambridgeshire Carpets, we supply and fit both LVT and laminate flooring across Peterborough and the surrounding areas. This guide will help you understand the real differences so you can make the best choice for your home.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a multi-layer synthetic flooring product. It features a photographic image layer that replicates wood, stone, or tile, protected by a tough wear layer. LVT is 100% waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
LVT comes in two formats: click-fit planks (similar to laminate installation) and glue-down tiles. Both are incredibly durable and comfortable underfoot — especially when installed with an acoustic underlay.
Laminate flooring is made from a high-density fibreboard (HDF) core with a photographic image layer on top, sealed with a protective coating. It replicates the look of real wood at a fraction of the price and is easy to clean and maintain.
However, laminate is NOT fully waterproof. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the HDF core to swell and warp — which is why it is generally not recommended for bathrooms or very wet kitchens.
Water Resistance: LVT wins. LVT is 100% waterproof; laminate can be damaged by standing water.
Durability: Both are durable, but LVT typically has a longer wear layer and better resistance to dents and scratches in high-traffic areas.
Comfort Underfoot: LVT feels slightly softer and warmer underfoot. Laminate can feel hollow if not laid on a good quality underlay.
Cost: Laminate is generally cheaper per square metre. LVT offers better long-term value in wet areas where laminate would not survive.
Installation: Both can be installed as floating floors using a click system. LVT is more flexible and can be laid over slightly uneven subfloors.
Best Rooms: LVT suits kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and utility rooms. Laminate suits living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms.
If your priority is a wet area like a kitchen or bathroom, choose LVT every time. If you are fitting a living room or bedroom where water is not a concern, laminate flooring offers excellent value. For open-plan spaces that include a kitchen, LVT throughout gives you a consistent finish without the water worry.
Not sure which is right for you? Visit our showroom in Peterborough or call us for free, no-obligation advice from our flooring specialists.