No two flooring materials have enjoyed technological and quality improvements to the same degree as laminate and vinyl. Both are substantially tougher and more visually appealing than vinyl or laminate flooring products from the previous decade, especially for moisture and stain-resistance. Still, vinyl and laminate flooring are not interchangeable.
Discover what differentiates these products and whether laminate or vinyl flooring is better for your next project!
Is Laminate the Same as Vinyl?
No, though laminate and vinyl are often confused due to their similar appearance and installation methods. Both are designed to mimic premium materials like hardwood or tile and are available in click-and-lock planks. The important difference is in their composition, which in turn influences water-resistance and other factors.
The Vinyl Flooring vs. Laminate Flooring Breakdown
Vinyl flooring is primarily made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with a stone plastic composite (SPC) or wood plastic composite (WPC) core. Most vinyl flooring products are highly water-resistant or waterproof, which means they won’t swell or warp when installed in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other humid areas of the home. It’s also more resilient and tends to last longer than laminate.
Laminate flooring typically has a wood-based core made from high-density fiberboard (HDF). While many laminate products offer wax-sealed edges or water-repellant coatings, they are not entirely waterproof. When exposed to water long enough, the wood core will swell, causing potentially irreparable damage. As such, laminate is best suited for kitchens and living spaces with lower water risks.
| |
Vinyl Flooring
|
Laminate Flooring
|
|
Core material
|
Plastic-based SPC or WPC
|
Wood-based HDF
|
|
Best applications
|
All areas, including bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements
|
Dry areas, such as living rooms or bedrooms
|
|
Thickness
|
3mm to 8mm (or more in some product lines)
|
6mm to 12mm
|
|
Resale value
|
Very high, as much as 80%
|
Good, but less than vinyl, wood, or tile
|
Is Laminate or Vinyl Flooring Better?
Most current and prospective homeowners prefer luxury vinyl flooring for its enhanced durability and ease of maintenance. Demand for vinyl flooring has expanded the range of colors, designs, and patterns over the past several years, providing an incredible array of aesthetic choices.
Vinyl is typically more expensive than laminate, and since products do offer similar design options, your dedicated Design Associate can help you balance form, function, and budget with strategic selections.
Find the Right Flooring for You in Spokane and North Idaho
Floor Coverings International® of Spokane offers an expansive selection of laminate and vinyl flooring options, plus expert installation and the most convenient customer experience possible. Explore our catalog, check out real flooring samples, and enjoy expert product recommendations from our local team.
Start your flooring project today by scheduling a free in-home consultation.
Homepage