What Is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is a multi-layer synthetic product with a high-density fibreboard (HDF) core, a photographic décor layer that mimics wood or stone, and a hard melamine wear layer on top. Planks click together over a foam or combination underlay without any adhesive, making it one of the most accessible DIY floors to lay. It cannot be sanded or refinished — once the wear layer is through, the board must be replaced. See our guide on how to lay laminate flooring for a full step-by-step walkthrough.

What Is LVT Flooring?

LVT (luxury vinyl tile or plank) is a fully synthetic floor built from multiple layers of PVC, including a rigid or flexible core, a printed décor film, and a clear polyurethane wear layer. It is 100% waterproof throughout its depth, making it suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms where laminate would fail. LVT is warmer and quieter underfoot than laminate and is compatible with most underfloor heating systems. For installation instructions, visit our guide on how to lay vinyl plank flooring.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Laminate — Pros and Cons

• Lower cost per m² — the most affordable hard-floor option for large areas
• Highly realistic wood grain appearance, especially at mid-range prices
• Simple click-lock installation suitable for confident DIYers
• Wide range of thicknesses, finishes, and plank widths available
• Harder surface resists surface scratches from furniture and foot traffic

• Cannot be used in bathrooms, wet rooms, or areas prone to flooding — HDF swells and delaminates when wet
• Cannot be sanded or refinished — damaged boards must be replaced
• Can sound hollow or noisy underfoot without good quality underlay (see our best underlay for laminate guide)
• Expansion gaps required around all perimeter edges — skirting boards must be removed or beading fitted
• Not always compatible with underfloor heating; check manufacturer spec carefully

LVT — Pros and Cons

• 100% waterproof — safe to use in kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, and hallways
• Warmer and quieter underfoot than laminate, often requiring no separate underlay
• Compatible with underfloor heating systems (check maximum temperature limits)
• Flexible and rigid core options available — rigid core suits uneven subfloors better
• Longer expected lifespan in high-traffic areas

• Higher cost per m² than equivalent laminate, particularly for rigid core products
• Budget LVT can look less convincing than mid-range laminate for wood effects
• Some thinner flexible LVT requires a very flat, smooth subfloor — imperfections telegraph through
• Glue-down LVT is difficult to remove without damaging the subfloor
• Not biodegradable — PVC product with environmental disposal considerations

Which Is Better For…?

• Kitchens and utility rooms: LVT — its full waterproofing protects against spills, leaks, and steam that would ruin laminate.
• Living rooms and bedrooms on a budget: Laminate — drier conditions mean moisture risk is low, and laminate’s realistic wood effect and lower cost make it the sensible choice.
• Homes with dogs or young children: LVT — it handles muddy paws and spills without warping, and its softer surface is more forgiving underfoot. See our best flooring for dogs guide for more detail.
• Hallways and stairs: LVT for hallways due to moisture from outdoor footwear; laminate can work on dry landings. Note that most LVT is not suitable for staircases — specialist stair nosings are required.
• Rental properties: LVT — its durability, waterproofing, and ease of cleaning reduce replacement frequency and maintenance callouts between tenancies.

UK Cost Comparison

Laminate flooring in the UK typically costs between £8 and £25 per m² for the boards alone, with budget click-lock options starting around £8–£12 per m² and mid-range embossed products sitting at £15–£25 per m². Underlay adds roughly £2–£6 per m² on top. LVT ranges from approximately £15 to £45 per m² depending on wear layer thickness and whether the product has a rigid or flexible core — rigid core LVT with a 0.5 mm or thicker wear layer generally sits at £25–£45 per m². Professional fitting adds £10–£20 per m² for either product. When budgeting, always add 10% extra material to account for cuts and waste. If you are also replacing skirting boards as part of the project, factor in the cost of fitting new skirting boards or removing existing skirting boards without damage before laying either floor type.