Vinyl vs Laminate: Which Flooring Option Fits Your Lifestyle?
Choosing the right flooring is more than a design decision—it’s about how you live, move, and use your space every day. Two of the most popular and cost-effective flooring options today are vinyl flooring and laminate flooring. While they may look similar at first glance, each offers unique benefits depending on your lifestyle, budget, and the room you’re upgrading.
Understanding the Basics: Vinyl vs Laminate Flooring
Both vinyl and laminate are designed to mimic the look of natural materials like hardwood or stone—but they’re built differently.
Laminate flooring is made with a high-density fiberboard core topped with a photographic layer and a protective wear layer.
Vinyl flooring, especially luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT), is made from synthetic materials and is designed to be highly water-resistant.
Knowing how each performs in real-life conditions is key.
Durability and Everyday Wear
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is known for its scratch resistance, making it a solid choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. It handles foot traffic well and maintains its appearance for years when properly cared for.
However, laminate is not fully waterproof. Spills should be cleaned quickly to prevent moisture from seeping into the core.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is built for durability. It resists:
Moisture
Stains
Scratches
Daily wear
This makes vinyl an excellent option for busy households, rental properties, and commercial spaces.
Best for durability: Vinyl flooring
Water Resistance and Moisture Performance
This is where vinyl truly stands out.
Vinyl flooring is water-resistant or waterproof, depending on the product.
Laminate flooring is moisture-resistant but not waterproof.
For areas like:
Kitchens
Bathrooms
Basements
Laundry rooms
Vinyl flooring is the safer and longer-lasting choice.
Best for moisture-prone areas: Vinyl flooring
Comfort and Feel Underfoot
Laminate
Laminate flooring often feels slightly warmer and firmer, especially when paired with a quality underlay. It offers a solid, wood-like feel that many homeowners appreciate.
Vinyl
Vinyl flooring has a softer, more cushioned feel, which can be easier on joints when standing for long periods. It also tends to absorb sound better, making rooms quieter.
Best for comfort: Vinyl flooring
Best for traditional firmness: Laminate flooring
Style, Design, and Aesthetic Options
Both flooring types offer a wide variety of styles.
Laminate excels at replicating natural hardwood textures and grain patterns
Vinyl offers wood, tile, and stone looks, often with more flexibility in color and plank size
At Global Carpet & Hardwood, our Laminate & Vinyl Flooring collection includes modern, classic, and contemporary designs to match any interior.
Best for visual variety: Vinyl flooring
Best for realistic wood appearance: Laminate flooring
Installation and Maintenance
Installation
Both vinyl and laminate feature click-lock installation systems, making them faster to install compared to traditional hardwood.
Vinyl has the advantage in uneven subfloors, as it is more flexible and forgiving.
Maintenance
Laminate: Regular sweeping and damp (not wet) mopping
Vinyl: Simple cleaning with minimal restrictions
Vinyl requires less caution around spills and humidity.
Best for low maintenance: Vinyl flooring
Budget and Long-Term Value
Both options are budget-friendly compared to hardwood flooring.
Laminate flooring often has a lower upfront cost
Vinyl flooring may cost slightly more but offers better longevity in high-moisture areas
Your final cost depends on:
Room size
Installation requirements
Product grade
Which Flooring Is Right for Your Lifestyle?
Choose laminate flooring if:
You want a hardwood-like look
The space stays dry
You’re upgrading bedrooms or living areas
You prefer a firm feel underfoot
Choose vinyl flooring if:
You need water resistance
You have kids or pets
You want easy maintenance
You’re flooring kitchens, basements, or bathrooms
Why Choose Global Carpet & Hardwood Ltd?
As a trusted flooring store in Vancouver, Global Carpet & Hardwood offers:
A wide selection of laminate and vinyl flooring
Expert guidance tailored to your space
Professional installation services
Flooring solutions for homes and businesses across Metro Vancouver
From product selection to final installation, our team ensures quality results every step of the way. Get a Free Quote from Global Carpet & Hardwood and receive expert guidance tailored to your home or business in Metro Vancouver.