Luxury Vinyl vs. Laminate: Which One is Right for Your Home?
Choosing the right flooring for your home can feel overwhelming—especially when you're deciding between two popular, budget-friendly options like luxury vinyl and laminate. Both offer the look of wood or stone at a lower price point than traditional materials, but there are some key differences in performance, appearance, and installation. Here's a side-by-side breakdown to help you choose the best fit for your space and lifestyle.
Appearance and Style
Both luxury vinyl and laminate flooring come in a wide variety of colors, textures, and finishes designed to mimic natural materials like hardwood, tile, or stone. Laminate tends to have a more rigid, slightly raised surface texture, while luxury vinyl offers a softer feel and more realistic visuals thanks to advanced printing technology. If you're going for the most natural look, luxury vinyl has a slight edge.
Water Resistance
This is one of the biggest differences. Luxury vinyl is waterproof, making it a smart choice for bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms. Laminate is water-resistant, not waterproof—so prolonged moisture exposure can cause swelling or warping. If water exposure is a concern, luxury vinyl is your safest bet.
Durability and Comfort
Both options are durable and designed to handle high foot traffic, pets, and daily wear and tear. Laminate has a tough wear layer that resists scratches and dents, making it great for busy households. Luxury vinyl is slightly softer underfoot and quieter, which many people prefer in bedrooms or living areas.
Installation
Both products are relatively easy to install, often using click-and-lock systems that float over the subfloor. Luxury vinyl is more flexible, which makes it easier to work with in uneven areas. Laminate, being more rigid, requires a level subfloor for a successful installation. In either case, professional installation helps ensure a long-lasting, seamless finish.
Cost
Laminate flooring typically costs a bit less per square foot than luxury vinyl, but the difference has narrowed in recent years. Keep in mind that the total cost may depend on factors like subfloor prep, waterproofing needs, and material thickness.
Best Uses for Each
Luxury vinyl: Ideal for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms.
Laminate: Great for dry spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, offices, and hallways.
Still not sure which is right for your home?
At Kolden Renovations, we’re happy to help you compare options, review samples, and recommend the best solution for your style, budget, and daily life. Serving Lino Lakes and the Twin Cities, we’re your trusted partner for quality flooring installation done right.