Your cart
Your cart is empty
Continue shopping
FLOORING BUYING GUIDE
Vinyl vs Laminate Flooring
Trying to decide between vinyl and laminate flooring? They look similar at first glance—but they perform very differently when it comes to water, durability, comfort, maintenance, and long-term value. This guide breaks down the real differences so you can choose the right flooring for your home.
Get Flooring EstimateQuick Answer
For most modern homes, luxury vinyl flooring wins if moisture resistance, durability, and easier maintenance matter most. Laminate flooring often wins if you want a warmer underfoot feel and a lower upfront cost.
Vinyl vs Laminate: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Vinyl Flooring | Laminate Flooring |
|---|---|---|
| Water Resistance | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Scratch Resistance | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Cleaning | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Installation | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Basements | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Value | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
What Is Vinyl Flooring?
Luxury vinyl flooring (LVP and LVT) is made with multiple durable layers designed to resist moisture and daily wear while delivering realistic wood and stone visuals. Modern vinyl has become one of the most popular flooring options for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and active households.
What Is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring uses a dense fiberboard core with a photographic top layer and protective coating. Many homeowners like laminate because of its comfortable feel underfoot and realistic appearance.
Winner By Category
Best For Water Resistance
🏆 Winner: Vinyl Luxury vinyl handles moisture significantly better and is generally the safer choice for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, mudrooms, and homes with pets.
Best For Comfort
🏆 Winner: Laminate Laminate tends to feel warmer and slightly softer underfoot.
Best For Dogs
🏆 Winner: Vinyl Waterproof protection plus easier cleanup gives vinyl the advantage for many pet owners.
Best For Appearance
🏆 Tie Today both categories offer impressive visuals.
Cost Comparison
| Average Material Cost | |
|---|---|
| Vinyl | $$–$$$ |
| Laminate | $–$$$ |
Installation, floor prep, room layout, transitions, and removal can affect final pricing.
Best Rooms For Vinyl
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Basements
- Laundry Rooms
- Homes With Dogs
Best Rooms For Laminate
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Lower Moisture Areas
Common Mistakes People Make
- Choosing only by color
- Ignoring moisture conditions
- Buying the cheapest wear layer
- Skipping subfloor prep
- Assuming all products perform the same
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vinyl flooring better than laminate?
It depends on the room and your goals. Vinyl often wins for moisture resistance while laminate may offer better comfort.
Which lasts longer?
Both can perform well when properly installed and maintained.
Which flooring is better for pets?
Vinyl is often preferred due to waterproof performance.
Which is easier to install?
Most modern click-lock systems make both relatively straightforward.
Still Not Sure?
Tell us about your room, pets, and budget and we’ll help narrow down options.
Request Estimate
Latest posts
Cost of Floor Installation
Read article
Artificial Turf Flooring Ideas for Homes, Gyms, Sports Facilities & Backyard Putting Greens
Read article
