Blog > Laminate vs. LVP: What’s the Difference?

Laminate vs. LVP: What’s the Difference?

January 15, 2026

Choosing the right flooring for your home can feel overwhelming—especially with so many options on the market. Two of the most popular synthetic flooring choices today are Laminate and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP). While they may look similar at first glance, they differ significantly in construction, performance, and best-use scenarios.

Below, we break down the key differences between laminate and LVP so you can decide which option is best for your space.

1. What Are They Made Of?

The biggest difference between laminate and LVP comes down to their core materials.

Laminate flooring is made with a high-density fiberboard (HDF) core, created from compressed wood fibers. It features:

• A high-resolution photographic image layer that mimics real wood
• A very hard protective finish made from melamine and aluminum oxide

This construction gives laminate its signature rigidity and scratch resistance.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), on the other hand, is made from a PVC-based vinyl, often with an SPC (stone polymer core). LVP consists of:

• A wear layer measured in mils
• A printed vinyl design layer
• A waterproof vinyl core

2. Durability & Wear

When it comes to durability, both flooring types perform well—but in different ways. Laminate flooring is known for its:

• Excellent scratch resistance
• Strong dent resistance
• High fade resistance

Laminate durability is rated using an AC (Abrasion Class) rating, which helps define how well it holds up in residential or commercial settings.

LVP offers good durability, but because it has a softer surface, it:

• Can show scratches more easily
• Is more prone to denting from heavy furniture or impacts

3. Water & Moisture Resistance

Both laminate and LVP are water-resistant from the top down, meaning spills on the surface won’t immediately damage the floor if cleaned promptly.

However, because laminate has a wood-based core, standing water or prolonged moisture exposure can still be an issue. LVP’s vinyl construction gives it an edge in moisture-prone areas.

4. Fade Resistance

If your home has a lot of natural light, this is an important consideration.

• Laminate flooring is highly fade resistant and holds its color well in sunny rooms.
• LVP, while durable, can fade or discolor over time when exposed to prolonged direct sunlight.

Final Thoughts

Both laminate and LVP are excellent flooring options—it ultimately comes down to where the flooring will be installed and how the space is used. Laminate excels in scratch resistance and color stability, while LVP offers better moisture performance and flexibility.

If you’re still unsure which option is right for your home, our team is always happy to help you compare samples and make the best choice for your lifestyle.