What are the differences between laminate and vinyl flooring?

It’s easy to get laminate flooring and vinyl flooring mixed up because they have many similarities. Both durable, simple to install and more affordable than hardwood alternatives, they remain popular options for homeowners for good reason. However, they also come with many contrasts that should be considered before deciding on the most suitable option for the room you’re renovating. Here we look at laminate flooring versus vinyl flooring and the different ways they can enhance your home.

Laminate flooring versus vinyl flooring: materials

Despite being similar in appearance, laminate and vinyl flooring are made very differently. Vinyl flooring is made from sheets of plastic pressed together, including a layer printed with a design. Laminate flooring is also made from layers of synthetic materials to resemble the look of a natural surface but has an inner core board made from wood byproducts bonded with resin. Both types of flooring have decorative layers that mimic the look of other materials such as authentic wood, or stone, although vinyl comes in a wider range of options including a concrete effect and patterned and mosaic designs.

Laminate flooring versus vinyl flooring: installation

Both laminate and vinyl flooring are fairly easy to install and have reputations for being DIY friendly. Our selection of vinyl has the advantage of coming in large, flexible sheets that can be cut to shape, and our luxury options have a click-lock fitting. You can also choose to add an additional underlayer to increase comfort underfoot and add extra insulation. Installing laminate flooring, on the other hand, involves fitting the planks into adjoining grooves and using a saw to cut the pieces to fit your room. An underlay can also be purchased, as can scotia beading to create a neat finish and close any gaps around the perimeter of the room.

Laminate flooring versus vinyl flooring: water resistance

If you’re considering new flooring, it’s worth thinking about the room you’re renovating. The polymer materials of vinyl flooring mean it can withstand large amounts of water, making it a practical choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Laminate, however, often has limited resistance to moisture and can swell if it’s exposed to water over an extended period of time. The top layers can also peel off if the centre becomes too waterlogged, although there are types available that are designed to better tolerate exposure to moisture. 

Durability and maintenance: Comparing the two

Along with being waterproof, vinyl flooring holds up well against everyday wear and tear. Its resilience can be further extended with proper care and maintenance, but typically has a lifespan of up 20 years. It is also extremely easy to clean and can withstand a number of methods to shift stubborn marks. Laminate flooring needs to be treated with a little extra caution because some designs have limited resistance to moisture. Although it can be cleaned with a touch of water, opting for dry methods will prolong its appearance and maximise its lifespan of up to 25 years.

Laminate flooring versus vinyl flooring: cost

Cost will always come into the laminate flooring versus vinyl flooring debate, but they’re both more affordable options than many other materials such as hardwood. The cost per m² will largely depend on the design style you choose, as well as the size of the surface area you’re looking to cover. Luxury vinyl flooring, for example, is a premium option with benefits that are justified by the slightly higher price tag, whereas the cost of laminate is often influenced by the thickness of the material you choose. Both options remain popular because of their overall affordability, but we can help you pick a style that meets your individual needs and budget.

Contact Flooring Direct to buy today

If you’ve been weighing up laminate flooring versus vinyl flooring, we’re here to discuss your concerns and answer your questions. You can get in touch with us by calling 0333 1234 581, sending an email to info@flooringdirect.co.uk or filling out the contact form on our website.