Vinyl Plank vs. Laminate Comparison: Which is Better?

When choosing between vinyl flooring vs laminate for your home renovation, we must take several different factors into consideration. Things like cost, maintenance, comfort and durability should play a huge role in influencing your decision. In this guide, we’ll be taking a look at all of these different factors individually in order to help you make the right flooring choice for your home or work space!

Cost Comparison

⁤Laminate

Laminate flooring prices vary from $1 to $5 per square foot. ⁤⁤The installation itself could add $2 to $8 per square foot depending on the level of complexity. Laminate is known for its affordability, especially for those looking for a wood-like appearance at just a fraction of the cost.

Vinyl 

Vinyl starts at $1 per square foot for simple designs and can go up to $10 per square foot for LVP or LVT. Installation costs range from $1 to $5 per square foot. The price variation is brought about by the difference between the cheap peel-and-stick tiles and the premium LVP that imitates high-end flooring materials. 

Maintenance

Laminate requires minimal maintenance – regular sweeping and damp mop work will do the job most of the time. It is, however, susceptible to moisture damage. Water can find its way between the seams and cause swelling or warping, so it’s not recommended for bathrooms or laundry rooms without further waterproofing. 

Vinyl is even easier to maintain. Its resistance to water, stains, and spills makes it ideal for high-moisture areas. It can handle heavy cleaning agents without damage, which is a significant advantage over laminate.

Longevity and Durability

Laminate floors can serve you well for about 10 to 25 years. They are equipped with a wear layer that protects against scratches and dents. Moisture, however, can significantly shorten your floor’s lifespan, so you need to be careful around areas prone to spills. 

Vinyl flooring, particularly LVP and LVT, can also last between 10 to 25 years and is much better suited for places with high moisture levels. Its durability and the ability to withstand heavy foot traffic make it a great choice for both your home and office spaces.

Comfort

Laminate flooring, by its design, is a slightly warmer and softer surface, which can be more comfortable for standing and walking over long periods. This makes it a great option for living rooms and bedrooms, where you’d expect to feel relaxed and cozy. 

Vinyl offers a different kind of comfort, particularly when equipped with a good-quality underlayment. It reduces noise more effectively than laminate and can provide a cushioned feel, which is beneficial in homes with children or elderly residents.

Room Suitability

• Kitchens and bathrooms: Vinyl flooring is a clear winner in this category for its water resistance.

• Living Areas and Bedrooms: Spaces that have no moisture issues, like bedrooms, are where laminate shines. The wood-like feel of this type of flooring gives these spaces a warm and classy look.

Environmental Impact

When considering the environmental aspect, vinyl and laminate have different profiles. Vinyl is a synthetic product and is less biodegradable than laminate, which is primarily made from compressed wood fibers. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is essential to consider the specific needs of your home before deciding whether laminate or vinyl is the right choice for you. Bearing all of the different factors in mind, we hope we made the decision of the type of flooring you should get at least a little bit easier for you!