Vinyl flooring and laminate floors are two of the most popular choices for homes and businesses. They’re both affordable, easy to install and come in lots of styles. At first glance, they seem pretty similar. But when you look at factors such as how long they last, how they handle water and how they fare in busy spaces, vinyl flooring starts to stand out as the better pick.
Durability and Materials
Vinyl and laminate flooring are made from different materials, and that’s one of the greatest differences between them. Laminate is made from layers with a wood fibre board in the middle. That means it’s strong, but it can get damaged more easily, especially if it gets wet.
Luxury vinyl flooring, on the other hand, is made fully from plastic. It has layers too, but they’re all synthetic. This makes vinyl stronger and better for areas where there’s a lot of foot traffic.
Vinyl is also used more often in commercial places because it wears better over time. Laminate can scratch or get damaged more quickly, and if something heavy drops or scrapes across it, the top layer might peel or crack. Vinyl is more flexible and less likely to show wear and tear.
Water Resistance and Cleaning
When it comes to water, vinyl is the clear winner because it’s 100% waterproof. You can put it in toilets, kitchens, laundry rooms, or anywhere water might spill. Laminate doesn’t do well with water because if it gets wet, it can swell and the top layer can peel. Once that happens, you usually have to replace it.
Vinyl is also much easier to clean. You can mop it with water or even scrub it if needed. Laminate should only be cleaned with dry or barely damp cleaning equipment. Too much water can damage it, so you have to be more careful.
Cost and Installation
Both vinyl and laminate are inexpensive compared to hardwood or tile. Vinyl sheet flooring is usually the cheapest, but luxury vinyl and thicker laminate can cost more. As for installing them, both are suitable as DIY jobs. Laminate needs a saw to cut, while vinyl can be trimmed with a simple utility knife.
They both use a click-and-lock system that makes it easier to fit the pieces together. If you’re doing it yourself, vinyl might be a little quicker and easier to work with.
Best for Commercial Use
If you’re looking for flooring in a business or high-traffic area, vinyl flooring is the better choice. It’s tougher, doesn’t get damaged by water and lasts longer, even with heavy use. Laminate can look appealing, but it won’t last as long in busy or wet areas.
So, is vinyl better than laminate? In many ways, yes. It lasts longer, it’s waterproof, and it’s easier to clean. Laminate still looks good and can be an affordable choice in dry rooms, but for overall value and strength, vinyl is the better pick.
