Laminate v engineered wood v LVT – how to choose the right option for your project

Whether you’re specifying flooring for a commercial space, a build-to-rent or housing development, sourcing the right kind of flooring to meet requirements such as ease of installation and longevity - within varying budget constraints – can be a minefield in what seems like an endless array of options.

Hard flooring has become a number one choice in UK homes and in commercial settings - popular for practicality and longevity. The types have increased, along with the quality, design and installation options.

LVT is a popular choice 

The popularity of Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) continues to grow, due to the fact most ranges offer waterproof options – which is ideal for everything from kitchens and bathrooms through to restaurants or hotel lobbies. LVT is made up of a protective wear layer which is textured to give an authentic look, a realistic wood or tile effect digital print lies beneath, and an insulation backing completes the composition – with the whole solution providing low acoustics, providing a real selling point in property projects and a welcoming environment in commercial spaces such as retail or hospitality venues. LVT designs range from slim, short, long and wide plank – and the increasingly popular and on trend herringbone effect. Installation methods can be either glue down, loose lay or click plank. Available at a variety of price points – there is an option here to suit every project budget.

Laminate offers a durable option

Laminate still remains a great option for creating wood or tile effect flooring, for high traffic or low moisture areas. Laminate flooring can be found in a great number of plank size, thickness, texture and installation options, including click. The designs and textures are realistic, it’s incredibly UV resistant and the composition thicker – which can be forgiving on variations in sub-flooring. With such a wide range of options, there’s one to suit every budget.

Engineered wood offers a timeless look

Engineered wood gives a classic look for those looking to achieve a premium, real wood look without the price tag of a solid wood floor – which would quickly sap budget on a multi-property build or refurbishment project. With real wood veneer layered upon different compressed wood types, it’s a more budget-friendly way to achieve a beautiful wood finish. However, while less susceptible to expansion and contraction than real wood, it is still less durable than laminate, and wouldn’t be advised for high moisture areas. Cost can vary dependent on how thick the veneer is.

Factory Direct Flooring offers a wide selection range of LVT, laminate and wood floor options to customers throughout the UK, and works closely with manufacturers to remove the ‘middleman’ and bring products direct to customers at competitive prices – all underpinned by exceptional service. FDF's range of LVT click products are increasingly popular, bring easy to install. Visit https://www.factory-direct-flooring.co.uk/ to see the full flooring offering.