Wear layer: This coating protects the floor from wear.Printed vinyl layer: Printed photo imagery mimics the look of natural materials.Waterproof core: The high-density core is entirely waterproof.

Base layer: This backing layer of cork or foam provides softness and sound absorption.Even though it has “wood” in its name, this material is made of plastic composites or a mixture of wood pulp and plastic. Vinyl flooring traditionally comes in sheets or tiles, and it has the design versatility to resemble wood, stone, tile and other materials. Wood plastic composite vinyl (WPC) flooring uses a glueless plank system for installation. Vinyl flooring is an engineered, synthetic surface that is durable and waterproof. Today, several manufacturers offer attractive and durable laminate floor options, including Armstrong Flooring, Chesapeake Flooring, Carolina Home, Mohawk and Shaw Floors. It inspired the new approach to synthetic and hybrid flooring now seen in commercial buildings and residences worldwide. This product was made using wood byproducts, pressure, heat and binding chemicals.

Laminate floors have come a long way since their origins in 1977 when the Swedish company Perstorp developed laminate flooring that spurred a new company and product called Pergo.

Protective top layer: The final transparent layer, made of melamine and aluminum oxide, is a hard plastic protective coating that shields the flooring from wear and tear.

The photographic quality elevates the fiberboard core to a realistic-looking work of art.

Decorative image: This detailed decorative layer transforms laminate with an authentic wood, stone or ceramic look.

Fiberboard core: The solid fiberboard center stabilizes the flooring and increases durability and impact resistance.

Melamine-reinforced base: This foundational layer keeps the flooring stable and adds moisture resistance.

Laminate is composed of four distinct layers: It is made of a resin-fused fiberboard base topped with a decorative image and a transparent protective finish. Laminate flooring is a synthetic and wood byproduct hybrid-material surface. Are you considering a new floor for your home or business? Studies show that hard surface flooring like laminate and vinyl can improve health by reducing the level of allergens, indoor dust and asthma-aggravating particulates. Enhance the beauty and air quality of your space with an attractive, affordable hard flooring update.Īt a glance, luxury laminate flooring and high-quality vinyl look similar - so what is the difference between laminate and vinyl flooring? To help you understand the key differences and determine which flooring type is the best investment for your lifestyle and budget, check out this comparison guide.

Vinyl vs laminate flooring