Published on 6th of Feb.,2026

When you’re browsing the aisles of a big-box DIY store in South Yorkshire, laminate flooring often looks like an absolute steal. It’s cheap, it looks like wood, and the box says it "clicks" together in minutes.

But at Census International, we spend a lot of time replacing laminate floors that are only two or three years old. Before you commit to your renovation, here is the "honest truth" about why laminate often falls short of Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT).

1. The "Cardboard" Core: A Magnet for Moisture

The biggest weakness of laminate is its heart. Most laminates are made of HDF (High-Density Fibreboard)—which is essentially highly compressed sawdust and glue.

• The Problem: If you have a minor leak from a dishwasher, a spilled dog bowl, or even a very damp mop, that moisture seeps into the joints.
• The Result: The core swells like a sponge. Once laminate "peaked" or "blown" at the edges, it is impossible to fix. You can’t sand it back; you have to rip the whole floor up.

2. The "Click" Clack Noise

Have you ever walked across a laminate floor in high heels or hard-soled shoes? It has a distinct, hollow "clacking" sound.

• The Reality: Because laminate is a "floating floor" (not glued down), there is always a tiny pocket of air between the floor and the subfloor. This creates an echo chamber.
• The LVT Alternative: Because we use high-quality F-Ball adhesives to bond LVT directly to the subfloor, the sound is absorbed. It feels solid, quiet, and premium underfoot.

3. Temperature Tantrums

Laminate is incredibly sensitive to the British weather.

• Expansion & Contraction: In a conservatory or a kitchen with large bi-fold doors, the sun hits the laminate and causes it to expand. Because it isn't glued down, it moves as one giant sheet. If the fitter didn't leave a perfect 10mm gap around every single edge, the floor will "tent" or buckle in the middle.
• The Fix: This is why we almost always recommend HT glues (high temperature) for sunny rooms. It stays exactly where we put it, regardless of the temperature.

4. Scratches You Can’t Repair

Laminate has a "photographic" top layer protected by a clear resin.

• The Issue: While it’s fairly tough, if you do manage to scratch it (by dragging a sofa or a stone caught in a trainer), that’s it. You are looking at the brown fibreboard underneath.
• The Contrast: High-end LVT we install, has a much thicker, through-coloured wear layer. It’s designed to handle the chaos of a busy South Yorkshire household without showing the battle scars.

5. The "False Economy"

Laminate is cheaper upfront—there’s no denying that. But if you have to replace it in five years because of a bathroom leak or sun damage, it has actually cost you double.

At Census International, we believe in "Fit Once, Fit Right." By choosing a professionally installed LVT, you’re getting a floor that is 100% water-resistant, handles underfloor heating perfectly, and won't move an inch.

The Verdict

Laminate has its place in low-traffic spare bedrooms, but for the "engine room" of your home—the kitchens, hallways, and lounges—it rarely stands the test of time.