Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring: What’s the Difference?
Choosing the right flooring for your home isn’t just about style—it’s about function, durability, and long-term value. At Board Savvy, one of the most common questions we hear is: What’s better—vinyl or laminate flooring? The truth is, both options have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your space, lifestyle, and design preferences. In this post, we break down the key differences between laminate vs vinyl flooring to help you make the most informed decision.
Understanding the Basics
Let’s start with what each material actually is:
Laminate Flooring
A synthetic product made with a high-density fiberboard (HDF) core topped with a photographic layer that mimics wood or tile and a clear protective coating.
Vinyl Flooring
Particularly luxury vinyl plank (LVP)—is made entirely of plastic materials, often featuring a rigid or flexible core and a high-quality photographic top layer for style.
Both come in planks or tiles that are easy to install and designed to look like hardwood, stone, or ceramic.
Durability & Moisture Resistance
One of the biggest differences in laminate vs vinyl flooring is how they perform when exposed to moisture.
Laminate Flooring
Water-resistant, but not waterproof. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause swelling or warping of the fiberboard core, so it’s best for living rooms, bedrooms, and other dry areas.
Vinyl Flooring
Fully waterproof, making it an excellent choice for bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms. If water spills or leaks occur, vinyl can handle it.
Look, Feel, and Sound
Both options offer beautiful aesthetics, but they differ slightly in how they feel underfoot.
Laminate Flooring
A harder, more wood-like feel and often produces a louder, hollow sound when walked on—especially without underlayment.
Vinyl Flooring
Tends to be softer and quieter underfoot, especially with padded backing.
Installation and Cost
Vinyl and Laminate both offer DIY-friendly click-and-lock installation systems.
Pricing is fairly comparable, with vinyl sometimes costing slightly more for waterproof or luxury varieties.
Our team at Board Savvy handles installation from start to finish, ensuring every plank fits seamlessly and performs beautifully.
Every home is different, and we take pride in helping homeowners choose the flooring that fits their lifestyle. Whether you’re leaning toward laminate, vinyl, or something else entirely, we’re happy to walk you through your options, show samples, and explain everything in plain English.
Reach out today for a free consultation
