What Is the Difference Between Vinyl Flooring and Laminate Flooring?
If you're renovating your home or commercial space and trying to decide between vinyl flooring and laminate flooring, you're not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we get at Balance Flooring — and for good reason. Both are stylish, affordable, and durable — but they have key differences that can impact your long-term satisfaction.
In this guide, we break down the main differences between vinyl and laminate flooring to help you make the right choice for your project.
1. Material: What They're Made Of
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Vinyl flooring is made entirely from synthetic materials, primarily PVC (polyvinyl chloride).
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Laminate flooring is made from compressed wood fiber (HDF) topped with a high-resolution image layer and a protective wear layer.
If you're looking for a fully waterproof solution, vinyl is the better choice due to its mall-synthetic composition.
Balance Flooring Tip: We carry hundreds of vinyl flooring styles in a wide range of textures and colors.
2. Durability: Which One Lasts Longer?
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Vinyl is highly durable and 100% waterproof, making it perfect for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.
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Laminate is durable against scratches and dents but not waterproof, which makes it less ideal for wet areas.
At Balance Flooring, we supply high-end vinyl and laminate options designed for both commercial and residential use — so you never have to compromise on style or strength.
3. Installation: Which Is Easier?
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Vinyl flooring is available in plank, tile, or sheet format and can be installed using glue-down, click-lock, or loose-lay methods.
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Laminate flooring uses a tongue-and-groove click-lock system and typically requires a foam underlayment for sound and moisture insulation.
DIYers love both options, but vinyl offers more flexibility for different installation needs.
4. Appearance: Look & Feel
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Vinyl can realistically mimic wood, stone, concrete, and tile and often comes with textured finishes for a natural look.
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Laminate also replicates wood and stone patterns, but usually has a more uniform and less textured appearance.
Want to see the difference in person? Visit our Toronto showroom to explore leading brands like Biyork, NAF, and Fuzion — all available at competitive prices at Balance Flooring.
5. Maintenance & Cleaning
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Vinyl is incredibly easy to clean — just use a damp mop and a mild cleaner. It’s stain-resistant, waterproof, and ideal for busy households.
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Laminate also requires low maintenance, but it’s more sensitive to water and may show scratches over time. It’s best to keep it dry and use felt pads on furniture.
Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring: At a Glance
| Feature | Vinyl Flooring | Laminate Flooring |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 100% synthetic (PVC) | Wood-based (HDF core + image layer) |
| Waterproof | Yes | No (water-resistant only) |
| Durability | High — great for pets, kids, moisture | Moderate — scratch-resistant |
| Installation | Glue-down, click-lock, loose-lay | Click-lock (floating floor) |
| Best Use | Bathrooms, kitchens, basements | Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways |
| Texture Look | Highly realistic textures available | Smooth, slightly less realistic |
| Maintenance | Easy — damp mop + mild cleaner | Easy, but avoid water exposure |
Still Not Sure Which One to Choose?
At Balance Flooring, our experts are here to help you compare vinyl and laminate flooring options based on your space, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you're outfitting a downtown condo, a rental unit, or a family home, we’ve got the right floor for you — with hundreds of vinyl flooring styles in a wide range of textures and colors.
Visit Our Showroom or Shop Online Today
We invite you to visit our Toronto showroom or browse online to view the full collection of luxury vinyl and laminate flooring from top brands like Biyork, Fuzion, and NAF.
Let us help you choose a floor that’s as durable as it is beautiful.