When it comes to budget-friendly, less-hassle flooring, vinyl and laminate are usually your first two options. While these two types of floors have a lot in common, they have a few distinct differences. 

If you’re not sure whether to choose vinyl or laminate, you should consider a couple of factors first when deciding which one to install in your home. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the right decision that will meet your home’s needs.

Vinyl flooring is made from 100 percent plastic which gives it superior resistance to moisture. When water sits on vinyl floors, even for prolonged periods of time, it won’t damage the surface so you don’t have to fret over spills and leaks. 



This resistance makes it an excellent choice for rooms that are prone to moisture like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.

Thanks to its composition of thermoplastics, wood flour, and calcium carbonate, some types of vinyl flooring are even completely waterproof like wood plastic and polymer composite. 

They are usually installed in areas where high moisture levels are ever present. Other waterproof vinyl floor options include stone plastic composite vinyl, also known as rigid core vinyl, made from natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizer. 

It’s also very versatile and can be installed over many types of flooring as a floating floor. When considering moisture exposure, in the vinyl vs laminate debate, vinyl flooring is the clear winner.

In the past, many people considered vinyl a lot less aesthetically pleasing compared to laminate. Now, however, vinyl has come a long way when it comes to style choices and you can find vinyl flooring that mimics the look and feel of stone, tile, and even wood floors with great realistic accuracy.

Vinyl may have a longer lifespan and better overall durability compared to laminate, but don’t forget to factor in your budget. Although it can last twice as long as laminate, vinyl flooring may involve a larger upfront investment.

Laminate is a synthetic material that simulates the look of real hardwood and can have an authentic wood floor appearance that makes it popular with homeowners who like the style of hardwood but want to spend less money on flooring. 

Although budget-friendly, unlike vinyl, laminate does not perform well when it comes to moisture. Some types of laminate may have water-resistant properties, but these flooring options are not actually waterproof and will become seriously damaged if water sits on them for an extended period of time.

One major benefit of choosing laminate flooring in the vinyl vs laminate debate is the comfortability factor. You may not think of this as a significant factor in your decision, but the underfoot feel can have a big impact on whether you enjoy every-day walking on your floors. 

With its thicker composition that includes wood content, laminate feels warmer and slightly soft while vinyl floors tend to be quite hard and cold to the touch.

This makes laminate floors generally the best choice for main living areas and bedrooms.



In summary, vinyl is the best choice for water resistance, lifespan, and durability in your flooring while laminate is more preferable if you want a more stylish appearance, lower costs, and a comfortable feel underfoot.



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