This is a very common question in the flooring world: Vinyl Flooring or Laminate Flooring? Both are incredible options for your home, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. It is important to carefully assess each category to determine which flooring is more suited to your needs.
Now, let’s dive deeper into this debate of Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring to help you make an informed decision. While Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring might look similar at first glance, they each offer unique qualities that can impact both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your space.
Homeowners have been asking, “Which is better: Vinyl or Laminate Flooring?” for years. The decision comes down to a number of factors such as durability, moisture resistance, ease of installation, and cost-efficiency. However, before you can make your final decision, you must first learn the difference between vinyl and laminate flooring.
Vinyl Flooring vs. Laminate is an age-old question among those who are looking to purchase flooring. There are a number of factors to consider when it comes to vinyl vs. laminate flooring, such as: Which is easier to install? Is wood flooring or laminate easier to install? They both have an easy installation process, but vinyl flooring takes the cake. Vinyl has a more flexible system in which you can choose between a click-lock or glue-down system.
In the rest of this article, we will weigh laminate vs. vinyl flooring on a number of key factors that matter most to you, such as appearance, durability, water resistance, and price. Whether you are renovating your kitchen or your entire living room, the right flooring can change the look and feel of your home. Discover the pros and cons of each type of flooring and see why laminate or vinyl flooring could be the right choice for your next home improvement project.
What is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is a well-known flooring, and although there are many types of vinyl flooring, in this particular article, we will focus on LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles) wood look. It is composed of multiple layers of synthetic materials such as PVC and Calcium Carbonate. LVT is often chosen as flooring for bathrooms and/or kitchens due to its waterproof and easy-to-clean properties. Its durability and resistance to stains and scratches make it a practical choice for high-traffic areas as well.
What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is a relatively inexpensive way to achieve a wood-effect floor in your home and is composed of multiple layers of core wood fibres, a printed image and a protective wear layer. It is often chosen for children’s bedrooms, hallways and other areas that require a functional, easy-to-clean and relatively durable floor. The choice of models is huge, so it’s best to shop around to try to find the right model for your home. Its affordability and wide range of designs make laminate a popular choice for homeowners looking for stylish, budget-friendly flooring options.
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Durability Comparison: Vinyl Flooring vs. Laminate Flooring?
Both Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring boast good durability with strong wear layers and high AC ratings. While neither option is anywhere near as durable as Engineered Wood Flooring and Solid Wood Flooring, they are still both fairly durable options.
Vinyl Flooring can have a core layer of PVC, WPC or SPC. They are very resistant to scratches, stains, and dents. In addition to this, they normally boast incredible water-resistant properties, protecting against moisture damage and spillages. This makes Vinyl Flooring a great option to add to bathrooms and kitchens. However, Vinyl Flooring can only last up to 25 years if maintained well.
Laminate Flooring has a core layer of HDF and is resistant to everyday wear & tear as well as scratches. However, Laminate Flooring is not as resistant to moisture as Vinyl Flooring. Laminate Flooring will also last only 25 years if maintained well.
In conclusion, while the durability of both is quite similar, Vinyl Flooring is slightly better due to its ability to protect against moisture damage.
- Vinyl Flooring has a core layer of PVC, WPC or SPC and incredible water-resistant properties, but only lasts for 25 years.
- Laminate Flooring has a core layer of HDF, is resistant to everyday wear and tear, but not as water-resistant and also only lasts 25 years.
| Feature | Vinyl Flooring | Laminate Flooring |
| Core Material | PVC, WPC, SPC | HDF (High-Density Fiberboard) |
| Resistance to Scratches | High | High |
| Resistance to Stains & Dents | Very High | Moderate to High |
| Water Resistance | Excellent (ideal for kitchens/bathrooms) | Limited (not recommended for wet areas) |
| Lifespan (with proper maintenance) | Up to 25 years | Up to 25 years |
| Ideal Areas | High-humidity areas, kitchens, bathrooms | Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways |
So, you’ve been on the fence, not sure which type of flooring is right for you. In the eternal battle of vinyl vs. laminate flooring, we will look at which is better in many categories. The decision between vinyl and laminate flooring: it all comes down to what is most important to you! Vinyl flooring is the clear winner when you need water resistance and durability. On the other hand, if you want a cheaper and better-looking option, then Laminate Flooring should be your choice.
So, which is better, laminate or vinyl? When it comes down to it, choosing the best flooring for your space will depend on what your space’s needs are and what features are most important to you over the long term. Are you more focused on getting a practical solution, or more focused on the design of your space? Whichever it is, when deciding on your flooring, make sure you know how each of the options looks and fits in with your aesthetic. Now that we know which is better between laminate and vinyl when it comes to cost, we can move on to the most important of the pros and cons: Appearance.
Understanding the vinyl vs. laminate flooring pros and cons will help you make a confident, informed choice that perfectly matches your home’s style and requires.
Appearance & Style Options: Which one looks better?
Both Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring are excellent choices for the aesthetic of your room. In many ways, they can be very similar, both coming in a wide variety of grades and colors. While they both do look very similar, there are some notable differences, such as texture and thickness, which can be the deciding factor between which one you choose to add to your home.
Vinyl Flooring offers a similar look to real hardwood, whilst being comprised entirely of synthetic materials. While it does a good job at capturing the look of real hardwood, it doesn’t do as good a job in terms of the feel. Its texture is quite soft and almost plastic-y. While its texture isn’t bad, it will ruin the illusion of hardwood.
Laminate Flooring also offers a similar look to real hardwood, whilst being made of synthetic materials. However, Laminate Flooring is able to shine further as it offers a better, more realistic texture in comparison to Vinyl Flooring. In addition to this, Laminate Flooring is able to offer greater thicknesses. These additions help in creating a better, more authentic overall feel.
In conclusion, while both do a good job at replicating the look of real hardwood, Laminate Flooring seems to do a better job with overall feel as it has a greater texture. Additionally, it also has greater thickness options, which help with the overall feel.
- Vinyl Flooring offers a similar look to hardwood but lacks texture and thickness options.
- Laminate Flooring also offers a similar look to hardwood, but has a more authentic texture and greater thickness options.
To better understand the key factors that differentiate laminate vs. vinyl, we now take a deeper look into the vinyl vs. laminate flooring features that may help you decide whether vinyl or laminate is the right choice for your space.
Discover the latest designs, finishes, and the real cost for luxury vinyl flooring to help you find the ideal match for your home, beautiful, durable, and made to last.
Key Differences Between Vinyl and Laminate Flooring
If you are in the market for a new type of flooring for your home or business, you may be deciding between vinyl flooring and laminate flooring. Both of these flooring types are fashionable, hard-wearing, and cost-effective. However, they are made of different materials and offer slightly different performance and space suitability. If you are not sure of the differences between vinyl flooring and laminate flooring, this guide is for you.
We are going to take a closer look at vinyl flooring vs. laminate flooring so that you can determine the best flooring option for your space.
Water Resistance & Ideal Spaces
Possibly the most significant difference between vinyl and laminate flooring is how they deal with water.
Vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof, so it’s perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. If water spills or moisture remains, you don’t have to worry, the surface will remain undamaged.
Laminate flooring is only partially water-resistant. Since the core is made from high-density fiberboard (HDF), it can swell or warp if it’s exposed to moisture for extended periods. That’s why it’s more appropriate for living rooms, bedrooms, or offices where there’s little to no risk of it getting wet.
Durability & Scratch Resistance
When it comes to durability, both vinyl plank flooring and laminate are built to withstand everyday wear and tear; however, they shine in different ways. Vinyl flooring has a wear layer that protects against scratches, stains, and dents, which makes it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas or households with pets and children. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is highly scratch-resistant thanks to its hard surface, but it may be slightly more susceptible to moisture-related damage. However, laminate often has a more realistic wood texture, providing a warm and natural look to a space.
Installation Difficulty
Vinyl and laminate floors are both easy to install for DIY projects, although there are some differences.
Laminate flooring typically involves a click-lock system and needs a flat, level subfloor. Installation is fairly fast, but attention to detail is important.
Vinyl flooring is more flexible and easier to install over existing surfaces.
| Feature | Vinyl Flooring | Laminate Flooring |
| Water Resistance | 100% waterproof — perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements | Water-resistant only — best for dry areas like living rooms and bedrooms |
| Durability & Scratch Resistance | Highly durable and resistant to scratches, dents, and stains | Excellent scratch resistance but more vulnerable to moisture |
| Installation | Simple, flexible, and can be installed over most existing floors | Requires a smooth, level subfloor and precise installation |
| Look & Feel | Softer underfoot with a slightly warmer touch | Feels more like real wood, firmer underfoot |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean; waterproof surface makes upkeep minimal | Easy to clean, but must avoid excessive moisture |
| Lifespan | 15–25 years (depending on quality) | 10–20 years (depending on usage and maintenance) |
| Cost | Slightly higher upfront, but longer-lasting | Generally cheaper, but shorter lifespan |
| Best for | Bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and high-moisture areas | Living rooms, bedrooms, offices, and low-moisture spaces |
Installation Process: Ease of Installing Vinyl Flooring vs. Laminate Flooring
Both Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring are very easy to install. This is mainly due to the click-lock system, which allows the planks to simply snap into place with each other. In spite of this, Vinyl might actually be slightly easier to install.
Vinyl Flooring can be installed using glue, nail-down, or floating methods.
Vinyl Flooring can be easier as it requires fewer tools and steps, thus saving you time.
Laminate Flooring can also be installed using glue, nail-down, or floating methods.
Laminate Flooring can be slightly harder to install due to its requiring a hand saw as well as an underlayment above the subfloor.
In conclusion, while both are very easy to install, Vinyl Flooring is slightly less time-consuming due to its requiring fewer tools and steps.
- Vinyl Flooring uses glue, nail and floating methods and requires fewer tools, thus saving time.
- Laminate Flooring also uses glue, nail and floating methods, but requires more tools and thus more time is spent installing the flooring.
Now that we’ve explored the installation process, it’s clear that both vinyl flooring and laminate flooring are designed with convenience in mind, offering flexibility, ease, and efficiency for homeowners and professionals alike. But understanding how to properly care for and maintain these surfaces is just as important as installing them correctly.
In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into the difference between vinyl and laminate flooring when it comes to maintenance, helping you keep your floors looking as stunning and durable as the day they were installed.
Maintenance: Caring for Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring
Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring are equally very easy to maintain. They only require a regular sweep/vacuum as well as the occasional mop. This makes both options very low maintenance, which is great for those who want flooring which isn’t too demanding to upkeep.
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Cost Comparison: which is more expensive vinyl flooring or laminate flooring?
Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring both tend to be some of the most affordable flooring options out there. While they are both very affordable, Laminate Flooring tends to be slightly more affordable.
Vinyl Flooring ranges between £20 per m2 and £39.99 per m2. Laminate Flooring is slightly more affordable, ranging between £13.99 per m2 to £32.99 per m2
Overall, both vinyl and laminate flooring offer impressive value for money, but your final choice depends on whether you prioritize initial cost or long-term durability.
Pros and Cons of Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring
We aim to help you make the best decision for your space. Vinyl and laminate flooring have both come a long way in both design and durability. But depending on your lifestyle, exposure to moisture, and budget, one may work better than the other.
Below is an in-depth side-by-side comparison table of vinyl flooring vs. laminate. We cover the main differences in performance, appearance, and practicality that are great for anyone looking at vinyl plank flooring vs. laminate flooring and asking themselves, “Is vinyl flooring better than laminate?”
side-by-side comparison table
| Category | Vinyl Flooring (Vinyl Plank) | Laminate Flooring |
| Water Resistance | 100% waterproof — ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements | Water-resistant only — not suitable for wet areas |
| Durability | Extremely durable and resistant to scratches, dents, and moisture | Highly scratch-resistant, but moisture can cause warping |
| Appearance | Mimics wood, stone, and tile; modern vinyl planks look highly realistic | Offers a more authentic wood texture and feel |
| Comfort | Softer, warmer, and quieter underfoot | Feels firmer and closer to real hardwood |
| Maintenance | Very easy — sweep, vacuum, and mop as needed | Easy, but must avoid excess water while cleaning |
| Installation | Easier to install; flexible and can be laid over most surfaces | Slightly harder; requires underlayment and precise cutting |
| Cost | Slightly higher upfront but lasts longer | Lower initial cost but shorter lifespan |
| Eco-Friendliness | Made from synthetic materials; some recyclable options | Uses wood fibers and resins — more eco-friendly overall |
| Ideal Spaces | Kitchens, bathrooms, basements, commercial areas | Living rooms, bedrooms, and offices |
| Lifespan | 15–25 years with proper maintenance | 10–20 years depending on care |
| Overall Verdict | Best for high-moisture, high-traffic areas | Best for dry, cozy, natural-looking interiors |
Environmental Impact: Sustainability of Vinyl Flooring vs. Laminate Flooring
It is important to factor in the impact that our flooring can have on the environment during both the production process and when in our homes. The less environmental damage caused, the better. While both flooring types can be fairly environmentally friendly, Laminate Flooring may be slightly better for the environment.
Vinyl flooring is 100% recyclable, as it can be recycled many times without losing its performance value.
Additionally, some vinyl flooring has low carbon emissions and thus a low carbon footprint.
However, Vinyl Flooring is made from PVC, which can release harmful chemicals during production and disposal. Laminate flooring is also recyclable and is made from recyclable materials like sawdust and wood fibres.
While it doesn’t contain any PVCs, it can emit VOCs, which may affect indoor air quality.
While they are both quite environmentally sustainable, Laminate Flooring tends to be slightly better for the environment. This is mainly due to the fact that no harmful chemicals are released during production.
- Vinyl Flooring is 100% recyclable and can have a low carbon footprint, but it is made from PVC, which releases harmful chemicals during production.
- Laminate Flooring is also recyclable and doesn’t contain any PVCs, but it can emit VOCs, which affect indoor air quality.
As you now know, the environmental impact of vinyl and laminate flooring, you can make a more environmentally responsible flooring choice. However, sustainability is not the only factor you must take into account. You must also know where each flooring type excels and where it falls short in your home.
The next step is learning the best and worst use cases for both vinyl and laminate flooring, so you can decide exactly where to install (and where to avoid) each option.
Best & Worst Use Cases: Where to/Where not to Install Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring
While both can be a great choice for most rooms and settings, Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring have rooms where they each work better. Additionally, they also have rooms where you should avoid putting them in to prevent damage to the floor and room.
Vinyl Flooring will look great in most rooms, especially given its timeless appearance. However, due to its water-resistant properties, it is highly recommended to use Vinyl Flooring in Bathrooms and Kitchens.
However, Vinyl Flooring is prone to fading from sunlight damage and so should not be used in outdoor patios or areas which may be exposed to prolonged sunlight.
Laminate Flooring also looks great in most rooms and shines in Living Rooms, Dining Rooms, and Bedrooms.
Laminate Flooring does have some water-resistant properties, which means that it can be installed in the kitchen.
However, Laminate Flooring is not 100% waterproof and so should not be installed in areas which are prone to a lot of moisture, such as bathrooms and basements.
- Vinyl Flooring: Best for bathrooms and kitchens. Avoid areas exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time.
- Laminate Flooring: Best for Living Rooms and Dining Rooms. Avoid areas which are prone to a lot of moisture, such as bathrooms.
Now that you know the best and worst places to install vinyl and laminate flooring, it’s time to decide which option truly fits your home and lifestyle. Let’s compare their overall performance and see which flooring is better when it comes to value, durability, and design versatility.
Now that you know the best and worst places to install vinyl and laminate flooring, discover what is the best flooring for your hallway to complete your home’s look.
Final Verdict | which is better vinyl flooring or laminate flooring?
In conclusion, both Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring are great options to add to your home. As we have seen, every floor covering has its advantages and disadvantages. So which one is right for you depends on your personal needs and preferences. Do you need a completely waterproof floor? Do you need an easy-to-install floor? Or do you need a floor with a specific thickness? It’s important to consider your current situation, but also what factors will be critical to you 10+ years from now, as many types of flooring will last well beyond that useful life.
Both laminate and vinyl flooring are highly stylish and durable, but the former is mostly superior in terms of waterproofing and ease of maintenance. Laminate wins in the wood-like appearance and cost, on the other hand. Therefore, in the vinyl vs. laminate comparison, there’s no clear-cut “winner” as the “best” really depends on your needs and location. And if you still wonder whether wood flooring or laminate is easier to install, the answer is still laminate, as it is the simplest and fastest to lay down in most DIY projects.
