Laminate flooring is a multi-layer synthetic flooring product that simulates the appearance of wood or stone using a photographic appliqué layer covered by a clear protective wear layer. It is created by fusing several layers together under high heat and pressure, resulting in a durable, scratch-resistant, and often affordable alternative to natural flooring. The planks are typically installed as a "floating floor," meaning they are not directly fastened to the subfloor and instead snap together.
Vinyl flooring is a synthetic, durable, and water-resistant flooring product made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is constructed in multiple layers, which include a protective top wear layer, a decorative layer that mimics the look of wood or stone, a core layer for stability, and a backing layer. This construction makes it comfortable, quiet underfoot, and practical for high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms.