Compare Vinyl and Laminate Flooring

Laminate floors often look like natural wood.

Laminate and vinyl floors give homeowners options less expensive than natural wood or ceramic tile while offering other advantages. Before making a decision, it is important to know the differences between the two flooring types.

Durability

Both vinyl and laminate floors hold up well when exposed to water and moisture. Laminate floors fare better when subjected to impact, and they do not rip as vinyl floors sometimes do.

Installation

A number of laminate floors can be locked in place by connecting different planks. Vinyl floors sometimes require glue and are more difficult to put in.

Cost

Both vinyl and laminate floors are generally on the cheaper side of the flooring spectrum, though laminate tends to run a bit higher. At their highest in late 2010, laminate floors can cost $11 per square foot, while vinyl sheet floors top out around $20 per square yard.

Aesthetics

Vinyl floors are manufactured synthetically and can look any way a homeowner wants them. Laminate floors are also versatile, as they can be made to imitate wood, stone or tile floors. Depending on the material under the floor, laminate floors can sometimes sound tinny and hollow.

References

• The Short and Long of It: All About Choosing Your Floor
• Armstrong: Laminate Flooring Pros and Cons
• Armstrong: Vinyl Sheet Flooring Pros and Cons
• House Flipping Helper: Vinyl Floor Costs
• Bob Vila: Laminate Floor Basics