Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and laminate are the two most popular flooring upgrades we install around Columbia. They look similar once installed, but they are built differently.
LVP is made of vinyl layers, so it handles water well. That makes it a strong choice for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and homes with pets or kids. It is also slightly softer and quieter underfoot.
Laminate has a wood-fiber core with a printed wear layer on top. It resists scratches and dents well and often costs a little less, but standing water can swell the edges, so it is better suited to living rooms and bedrooms.
Whichever you choose, the subfloor matters. High spots, soft spots, and squeaks should be fixed before installation. A floor installed on a level base stays flat, quiet, and tight at the seams.