Laminate vs LVT Flooring: Which One Lasts Longer?

When choosing new flooring, durability is often one of the top concerns for homeowners. You want a surface that can handle daily wear and tear, resist damage, and still look great years down the line. Two of the most popular choices for modern homes are laminate flooring and LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring. But when it comes to long-term performance, which one lasts longer?

In this guide, we’ll break down the structure, strengths, and weaknesses of both flooring types to help you decide which is better suited for your lifestyle and budget, especially if you're thinking long term.

Understanding the Construction of Laminate and LVT

What Is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is made from multiple layers fused together under high pressure. At its core is a high-density fibreboard (HDF) layer, which gives the floor stability and strength. On top of this sits a photographic layer that mimics the appearance of wood or stone, followed by a durable melamine wear layer that protects against scratches and surface damage. While laminate is known for its realistic looks and affordability, it is more susceptible to water damage than some other flooring types.

What Is LVT Flooring?

LVT, or Luxury Vinyl Tile, is a synthetic product made from multiple layers of PVC vinyl. These include a rigid or flexible backing, a core layer, a high-resolution printed image layer, and a thick transparent wear layer. Some LVT options also feature a built-in underlay for added comfort and sound insulation. What makes LVT stand out is its high resistance to moisture and its ability to replicate the look and texture of natural materials like wood or stone with impressive realism.

How Long Does Laminate Flooring Typically Last?

The average lifespan of laminate flooring is between 10 and 20 years, depending on several factors like the quality of the product, the AC rating (abrasion class), and how well it's maintained. Higher-end laminate with an AC4 or AC5 rating can handle more foot traffic and resist wear better in busy areas like hallways and living rooms.

However, laminate is not as resistant to moisture as LVT. Prolonged exposure to water can cause the boards to swell, warp, or delaminate. For that reason, laminate flooring is best used in dry, low-humidity rooms and should be cleaned with minimal moisture.

How Long Does LVT Flooring Typically Last?

LVT flooring is built to last — often 15 to 25 years or more, making it one of the most durable flooring types for both residential and commercial use. The longevity largely depends on the thickness of the wear layer, with thicker layers (0.4mm to 0.7mm or more) providing better protection against scuffs, dents, and daily wear.

One of the key advantages of LVT is its outstanding water resistance. Unlike laminate, it doesn’t swell or warp when exposed to moisture, making it ideal for high-humidity environments like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. With minimal upkeep and proper installation, LVT flooring can maintain its appearance and performance for decades.

Key Factors That Affect Floor Longevity

While product quality plays a major role, there are several other factors that influence how long laminate and LVT flooring will last in your home. Understanding these can help you make a better long-term investment:

• Wear Layer Thickness: Particularly important for LVT, a thicker wear layer offers more resistance to scratches, dents, and fading.
• Installation Quality: Poor installation can lead to movement, gaps, and early wear. Always follow manufacturer's guidelines or use professional installers.
• Foot Traffic & Usage: Areas with heavy footfall, such as hallways and living rooms, require flooring with a higher durability rating (e.g. AC4+ for laminate).
• Moisture Resistance: LVT handles water and humidity far better than laminate. Spills and steam can damage laminate if not cleaned quickly.
• Cleaning & Maintenance: Regular sweeping, vacuuming, and using appropriate cleaning products help extend the life of any floor. Avoid excessive water with laminate.

Which Flooring Type Is Best for Long-Term Use?

When it comes to overall longevity, LVT flooring tends to outperform laminate, especially in areas where moisture is a concern. Thanks to its waterproof structure and thicker wear layers, LVT can withstand more varied conditions and still retain its appearance and durability over time.

However, in dry environments with low foot traffic, high-quality laminate can be a cost-effective and stylish option that still offers a decent lifespan. The key is choosing the right type for each room in your home:

• Kitchens & Bathrooms: LVT is the better choice due to its water resistance.
• Living Rooms & Bedrooms: Both options work well, but laminate may offer more wood-like finishes at a lower price.
• Hallways & Entryways: LVT holds up better to moisture and heavy use, but AC4+ laminate is also a viable option.

Best Long-Lasting Laminate & LVT Options

Both laminate and LVT floors can offer long-term durability when you choose the right product. At our shop, we stock a wide range of options designed to perform well in busy homes and commercial spaces.

• For Durable Laminate: Explore our full selection of high-quality, scratch-resistant laminates with AC4 and AC5 ratings. Shop laminate flooring.
• For Long-Lasting LVT: Choose from waterproof LVT and rigid SPC flooring with thick wear layers, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Browse LVT and SPC flooring.

Whether you're renovating your whole home or updating a single room, you'll find styles and finishes that combine looks with long-term performance.

Conclusion

When comparing laminate vs LVT flooring for longevity, LVT has a clear edge thanks to its superior water resistance, flexible installation, and thicker wear layers. It's especially well-suited for areas prone to moisture or heavy use, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.

That said, high-quality laminate can still provide great value and durability in the right setting — especially in living areas and bedrooms where style and affordability are priorities.

Still unsure which option is best for your space? Get in touch with our team or explore our full flooring collection to find a product that’s built to last.