Vinyl vs Laminate Flooring
Both are popular, affordable choices, but they behave differently around water. Here is how to choose.
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- Best for wet areas
- Luxury vinyl
- Best wood look
- Laminate
- Water resistance
- Vinyl wins
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is water-resistant or waterproof and handles moisture well, while laminate has a harder, more wood-like feel but can swell if water reaches its core. Choose vinyl for kitchens, baths, and basements, and laminate for dry living areas where you want a wood look.
How they compare
- Water resistance: vinyl is far more forgiving of spills and humidity; laminate can swell at the seams.
- Durability: laminate has a tough wear layer and resists scratches; vinyl is softer underfoot and can dent with heavy point loads.
- Comfort: vinyl feels warmer and quieter; laminate is harder and can sound hollow without underlayment.
- Installation: both often click together, though some vinyl is glue-down and laminate needs an underlayment and flat subfloor.
- Appearance: laminate tends to look more like real wood; vinyl has improved but can look more synthetic.
Where each works best
- Vinyl: kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and anywhere moisture is a risk.
- Laminate: living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and other dry spaces.
Check the product rating
Water resistance claims vary. Some vinyl is fully waterproof; some laminate is water-resistant for spills but not standing water. Read the manufacturer's warranty and installation requirements.
Estimating materials
Whichever you choose, estimate boxes the same way. Use the flooring calculator to add a waste allowance and convert square footage into boxes using the coverage on the carton.
Sources and assumptions
This comparison is based on common product characteristics. Specific performance varies by brand and product line, so check the manufacturer's specifications.
Frequently asked questions
- Is vinyl or laminate better for a bathroom?
- Vinyl is usually the better choice for bathrooms because it tolerates moisture and spills far better. Laminate can swell if water reaches its core, even when the surface is water-resistant.
- Which is more durable, vinyl or laminate?
- It depends on the type of wear. Laminate resists scratches well and feels hard, while vinyl resists water and is more comfortable but can dent under heavy point loads. Match the product to the room.
- Can I install vinyl or laminate over existing flooring?
- Sometimes, if the existing floor is flat, sound, and clean, and the manufacturer allows it. Check the installation instructions, since uneven or soft subfloors can cause problems later.