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# Laminate Flooring Vs Vinyl Plank Flooring: An In-Depth Comparison

When it comes to flooring, there are a lot of options out there and it can be hard to decide which one is best for your home. Laminate flooring and vinyl plank flooring are two popular choices that offer a variety of benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the similarities and differences between laminate flooring and vinyl plank flooring so you can make an informed decision as to which is best for your project.

## What is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is a popular choice when it comes to home flooring because it offers a variety of benefits, including affordability, durability, and ease of installation. It is made up of four layers: a wear layer, a decorative layer, a core layer, and a backing layer. The wear layer is designed to protect the floor from everyday wear and tear, while the decorative layer adds visual appeal by providing realistic wood or stone designs. The core layer is made up of high-density fiberboard or particleboard that provides stability and support, while the backing layer helps keep the planks together and prevents moisture damage.

## What is Vinyl Plank Flooring?

Vinyl plank flooring is another popular choice for home flooring because it is both affordable and durable. It is made up of several layers of PVC vinyl that are fused together under heat and pressure. The top layer usually has a protective wear layer that helps protect the floor from scratches and stains while also providing realistic wood or stone designs. The core layer provides stability and support, while the bottom layer helps keep the planks together.

## Comparing Laminate Flooring Vs Vinyl Plank Flooring

When it comes to deciding between laminate flooring vs vinyl plank flooring, there are a few key considerations to make. Here’s a quick look at how they compare:

### Durability

When it comes to durability, laminate flooring wins out over vinyl plank flooring thanks to its thicker wear layer. Laminate floors are also more resistant to scratches and dents than vinyl plank floors. However, vinyl plank floors are more water-resistant than laminate floors which makes them better suited for bathrooms or other areas with high moisture levels.

### Installation

Both laminate flooring and vinyl plank flooring are easy to install and can be done by most DIYers with minimal effort. However, laminate floors require underlayment for installation while vinyl plank floors do not. This makes vinyl plank floors slightly easier to install since you don’t have to worry about underlayment.

### Affordability

When it comes to affordability, laminate flooring and vinyl plank flooring are both fairly inexpensive compared to other types of flooring such as hardwood or tile. Laminate floors tend to be slightly more expensive than vinyl plank floors but they also last longer so they may be worth the extra cost in the long run.

### Maintenance

Both laminate flooring and vinyl plank flooring require minimal maintenance but they do require different types of care. Laminate floors should be cleaned with a vacuum or damp mop while vinyl plank floors should only be cleaned with a damp mop. Both types of floors should be mopped regularly in order to prevent dirt build-up which can cause scratching or dulling over time.

## The Bottom Line

When it comes down to choosing between laminate flooring vs vinyl plank flooring, there are several factors you need to consider including durability, installation, affordability, and maintenance needs. Ultimately, both types of floors offer their own unique benefits so it’s important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision as to which one is best for your needs.