Choosing between luxury vinyl flooring and laminate flooring is one of the most common dilemmas facing homeowners today. Both offer attractive, practical alternatives to solid wood at more accessible price points, but they have distinct characteristics that make each suited to different situations.
At Kent Flooring, we’re frequently asked: “Should I choose Amtico, Karndean, or laminate?” The honest answer is that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The right choice depends on your specific circumstances, priorities, and budget. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about these popular flooring options, helping you make an informed decision for your Kent home or business.
Understanding the Basics: What Are These Flooring Types?
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring consists of multiple layers: a photographic image layer depicting wood or stone, protected by a transparent wear layer, all bonded to a high-density fibreboard (HDF) core. The bottom layer provides stability and moisture resistance.
Premium brands like Quick Step flooring have revolutionised laminate technology, creating products with exceptional realism and durability. Modern laminate bears little resemblance to the thin, unconvincing products of the past.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT)
Luxury vinyl flooring, often called LVT (luxury vinyl tile), consists of multiple vinyl layers including a photographic design layer, protective wear layer, and backing layer. Leading brands in the UK include Amtico flooring and Karndean flooring UK, both renowned for their exceptional quality and design authenticity.
Unlike basic vinyl sheet flooring found in budget applications, luxury vinyl tiles are sophisticated products designed to authentically replicate natural materials whilst offering superior practical performance.
The Major Differences: Laminate vs Luxury Vinyl
Water Resistance: The Critical Distinction
This is perhaps the most significant difference between these flooring types.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring: 100% waterproof. The vinyl construction is completely impervious to water, making products like Amtico flooring and Karndean flooring ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, and even commercial wet areas. Spills can sit on the surface without causing damage, and the flooring can handle the occasional flooding incident.
Laminate Flooring: Water-resistant but not waterproof. Even high-quality Quick Step flooring, whilst offering excellent water resistance, remains vulnerable to standing water, particularly at the joints between planks. The HDF core can swell if water penetrates, causing irreversible damage.
Verdict: For wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms, luxury vinyl flooring is the clear winner. For bedrooms, living rooms, and dining areas, both options perform well.
Underfoot Comfort and Warmth
Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Offers a slight cushioning effect, making it comfortable for standing for extended periods. It’s warmer underfoot than laminate, which is particularly appreciated during cold Kent winters. Amtico flooring and Karndean flooring both feel noticeably softer than hard surfaces.
Laminate Flooring: Harder and colder underfoot, though quality laminate flooring underlay significantly improves comfort. The underlay provides cushioning, sound absorption, and insulation. Without appropriate underlay, laminate can feel harsh and create a hollow sound when walked upon.
Verdict: Luxury vinyl feels more comfortable naturally, but high-quality laminate flooring underlay can narrow this gap considerably.
Visual Authenticity
Both flooring types have made enormous strides in replicating natural materials.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Premium brands like Amtico and Karndean offer exceptional realism. Their products feature:
- Detailed embossing that matches the printed grain precisely
- Authentic colour variations between planks
- Realistic bevelled edges
- Textured surfaces that feel like real wood or stone
The best luxury vinyl is virtually indistinguishable from genuine materials at first glance.
Laminate Flooring: Modern laminate, particularly Quick Step flooring, has closed the authenticity gap considerably. Premium laminate features:
- High-definition photographic layers
- Embossed-in-register surfaces
- Natural-looking variations
- Authentic plank widths and lengths
However, close examination often reveals the photographic nature of the surface, and the feel underfoot differs from real wood.
Verdict: Both offer excellent realism, with luxury vinyl having a slight edge in texture authenticity, whilst premium laminate like Quick Step often excels in visual detail.
Durability and Lifespan
Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Extremely durable with typical lifespans of 15-25 years in residential settings. The wear layer protects against scratches, scuffs, and dents. Amtico flooring and Karndean flooring both offer commercial-grade products that can last even longer. The flexible nature of vinyl means it’s somewhat resistant to damage from impacts.
Laminate Flooring: Also highly durable, particularly commercial-grade products rated AC4 or AC5. Quality Quick Step flooring typically lasts 15-20 years in homes. The hard surface is very scratch-resistant but can chip if hit by sharp, heavy objects. Unlike vinyl, laminate cannot be repaired—damaged planks must be replaced.
Verdict: Similar longevity, but luxury vinyl is more forgiving of impacts and easier to repair if damaged.
Installation Considerations
Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Can be installed using various methods:
- Click-lock floating systems (easiest, suitable for DIY)
- Glue-down installation (more permanent, better for uneven subfloors)
- Loose-lay systems (some products)
Installation is generally straightforward, though professional fitting ensures best results, particularly for glue-down methods.
Laminate Flooring: Almost exclusively uses click-lock floating installation. Quality laminate flooring underlay is essential and must be installed beneath the laminate. The installation process is:
- Relatively quick
- DIY-friendly for competent home improvers
- Requires expansion gaps around room perimeters
- Cannot be glued down
Professional installation ensures proper underlay selection, correct expansion gaps, and neat finishing around door frames and pipes.
Verdict: Both are relatively easy to install, with laminate perhaps slightly more DIY-friendly, though both benefit from professional fitting.
Maintenance Requirements
Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Exceptionally easy to maintain:
- Regular sweeping or vacuuming
- Damp mopping with appropriate cleaner
- Resistant to most stains
- No special treatments required
Amtico flooring and Karndean flooring maintain their appearance with minimal effort, even in high-traffic areas.
Laminate Flooring: Also low-maintenance:
- Regular sweeping or vacuuming
- Damp mopping (avoid excessive water)
- More vulnerable to water damage during cleaning
- No special treatments needed
Quick Step flooring and similar quality products feature easy-clean surfaces that resist marks and stains.
Verdict: Luxury vinyl is slightly easier to maintain due to its waterproof nature, but both are low-maintenance options.
Cost Comparison
Pricing varies significantly based on quality and brand, but general comparisons help with budgeting:
Budget Laminate Flooring: £8-15 per m² (supply only)
- Basic designs and durability
- Suitable for low-traffic areas
- Shorter lifespan
Mid-Range Laminate (Quick Step and similar): £15-30 per m²
- Good design authenticity
- AC3-AC4 wear ratings
- 10-15 year lifespan
- Suitable for most homes
Premium Laminate: £30-50+ per m²
- Exceptional realism
- AC4-AC5 commercial ratings
- Maximum durability
- Best warranties
Budget Luxury Vinyl: £15-25 per m²
- Decent designs
- Suitable for residential use
- Good waterproofing
Mid-Range Luxury Vinyl (Karndean Flooring UK): £25-45 per m²
- Excellent design quality
- Strong warranties
- Wide product range
- Suitable for most applications
Premium Luxury Vinyl (Amtico Flooring): £40-70+ per m²
- Outstanding design authenticity
- Longest warranties
- Bespoke design possibilities
- Commercial-grade durability
Installation costs typically add £8-15 per m² for either flooring type, with glue-down luxury vinyl at the higher end. Don’t forget laminate flooring underlay costs (£2-5 per m²) when budgeting for laminate installation.
Verdict: Laminate is generally more affordable at entry level, but premium products from both categories occupy similar price ranges.
Underfloor Heating Compatibility
Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Excellent compatibility with underfloor heating. The vinyl construction conducts heat efficiently whilst remaining stable. Both Amtico flooring and Karndean flooring work perfectly with modern heating systems.
Laminate Flooring: Compatible with underfloor heating but requires careful selection. Choose laminate specifically rated for use with underfloor heating and ensure appropriate laminate flooring underlay is used. Quick Step flooring offers specific ranges designed for heated floors.
Verdict: Both work with underfloor heating, but luxury vinyl is typically easier to specify correctly.
Environmental Considerations
Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Made from PVC and other synthetic materials. Not biodegradable but increasingly recyclable. Some manufacturers, including Karndean, have sustainability initiatives and recycling programmes.
Laminate Flooring: Contains wood fibres in the core layer, typically from sustainable sources. Premium brands like Quick Step use FSC-certified materials. More easily recyclable than vinyl, though still contains synthetic components in the wear layer.
Verdict: Neither is particularly eco-friendly, but laminate has a slight edge due to wood content and easier recyclability.
Residential Applications: Which Should You Choose?
Living Rooms and Bedrooms
Both options work excellently in these low-moisture environments.
Choose Luxury Vinyl (Amtico/Karndean) if:
- You prioritise comfort underfoot
- You want maximum design flexibility
- You prefer warmer flooring in winter
- Budget allows for premium products
Choose Laminate (Quick Step) if:
- Budget is tighter
- You want the hardest-wearing surface possible
- You prefer a more solid feel underfoot
- You’re happy with standard plank formats
Kitchens
Choose Luxury Vinyl: The waterproof nature of Amtico flooring, Karndean flooring, or other quality LVT makes it the safer choice for kitchens. Spills, splashes, and the occasional appliance leak won’t cause damage.
Consider Laminate only if: You choose high water-resistance rated products, ensure professional installation with proper sealing, and are confident about cleaning spills immediately.
Bathrooms and Wet Rooms
Choose Luxury Vinyl exclusively: This is non-negotiable. The waterproof properties of luxury vinyl flooring make it the only sensible choice for bathrooms. Laminate flooring, even water-resistant grades, will eventually fail in truly wet environments.
Hallways and Stairs
Both perform well in these high-traffic areas.
Choose Luxury Vinyl if:
- You track in water or snow from outside
- You want the most comfortable option
- You have underfloor heating
Choose Laminate if:
- You want maximum scratch resistance
- These areas stay dry
- You’re fitting matching flooring throughout dry areas
Conservatories and Extensions
Choose Luxury Vinyl: The temperature fluctuations and potential condensation issues in conservatories favour luxury vinyl’s stability and waterproof nature.
Commercial Applications: Professional Considerations
Offices
Both work well, but decisions depend on specific requirements:
Choose Luxury Vinyl (Commercial Karndean/Amtico):
- Kitchenettes and tea points
- Reception areas requiring premium appearance
- Areas with potential water exposure
- Spaces needing maximum comfort for standing workers
Choose Commercial Laminate:
- General office areas with low moisture risk
- Budget-conscious projects
- Areas requiring extremely hard-wearing surfaces
Retail Spaces
Choose Luxury Vinyl: The waterproof nature, comfort, and design flexibility of Karndean flooring UK or Amtico make them ideal for retail environments. The ability to create custom patterns and borders also helps brand expression.
Restaurants and Hospitality
Choose Luxury Vinyl exclusively: The inevitable spills and cleaning requirements of hospitality environments make waterproof flooring essential.
Healthcare and Education
Choose Luxury Vinyl: Hygiene requirements, water resistance, and comfort underfoot make luxury vinyl the professional choice for schools, surgeries, and care facilities.
Leading Brands: What Makes Them Special?
Amtico Flooring
Amtico is widely considered the premium luxury vinyl brand in the UK. Based in Coventry, Amtico has over 60 years of flooring expertise.
Strengths:
- Exceptional design authenticity
- Bespoke design service (Amtico Signature)
- Commercial-grade durability in residential products
- Extensive design library
- Outstanding warranties
- British manufacturing
Best for: Homeowners seeking the absolute best luxury vinyl, bespoke design requirements, and commercial applications requiring premium aesthetics.
Karndean Flooring UK
Another British brand, Karndean offers premium luxury vinyl with extensive distribution across the UK.
Strengths:
- Excellent design quality
- Wide product range at various price points
- Strong warranty coverage
- Good availability nationwide
- Proven track record in commercial settings
Best for: Those seeking high-quality luxury vinyl at slightly more accessible prices than Amtico, with strong commercial performance credentials.
Quick Step Flooring
A leading laminate flooring manufacturer from Belgium, Quick Step has built a reputation for innovation and quality.
Strengths:
- Cutting-edge laminate technology
- Excellent water resistance for laminate
- Realistic wood and stone effects
- Comprehensive warranty coverage
- Wide range from budget to premium
Best for: Those choosing laminate who want assured quality, realistic appearance, and maximum durability within the laminate category.
Making Your Decision: Key Questions to Ask
To determine the best flooring for your specific situation, consider:
1. Where will the flooring be installed?
- Wet areas = luxury vinyl mandatory
- Dry living spaces = both options work
- Mixed use = luxury vinyl for versatility
2. What’s your budget?
- Tight budget = mid-range laminate
- Moderate budget = mid-range luxury vinyl or premium laminate
- Premium budget = Amtico or Karndean
3. How important is water resistance?
- Critical = luxury vinyl only
- Somewhat important = both possible
- Not important = both equally suitable
4. Do you have underfloor heating?
- Yes = slight preference for luxury vinyl
- No = both work equally well
5. What’s your priority: comfort or hardness?
- Comfort = luxury vinyl
- Hardness = laminate
6. How long do you plan to stay?
- Long-term (10+ years) = invest in quality from either category
- Medium-term (5-10 years) = mid-range from either
- Short-term = budget options acceptable
Visit Kent Flooring: See and Feel the Difference
Reading about flooring options is helpful, but experiencing them firsthand is invaluable. At our Kent showroom, you can:
- See and touch samples from Amtico, Karndean, Quick Step, and other leading brands
- Compare luxury vinyl flooring and laminate flooring side-by-side
- Feel the difference in underfoot comfort
- Experience the visual authenticity of different products
- Discuss your specific requirements with our expert team
- See various laminate flooring underlay options
- Get honest advice about what works best for your situation and budget
We’ll never push you toward more expensive options if they’re not right for your needs. Our reputation is built on helping Kent homeowners make the right choice, not the most expensive one.
Request Your Free Quote
Ready to move forward with your flooring project? We offer:
- Free home consultations throughout Kent
- Detailed, transparent quotations
- Expert advice on product selection
- Professional installation by experienced fitters
- Comprehensive aftercare support
Whether you choose luxury vinyl flooring from Amtico or Karndean, premium Quick Step laminate flooring, or another quality product, we’ll ensure professional installation and outstanding results.
Get in touch with Kent Flooring today:
- Call to discuss your project
- Email your requirements
- Visit our showroom to explore options
- Request a quote online
Let’s find the perfect flooring solution for your Kent home or business—whether that’s the waterproof versatility of luxury vinyl or the durable beauty of laminate flooring.