Vinyl Plank Flooring Vs. Laminate Flooring: What Is the Best Option for Your Home?

Family-friendly flooring is one of the most popular flooring attributes, for good reason. For a family home, the flooring needs to withstand heavy foot traffic, occasional spills, and the chaos that comes with kids running around. In this scenario, vinyl plank flooring would make for a durable choice. It is resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, making it a good choice for areas that see a lot of activity. Vinyl planks also have a water-proof surface, which can be a lifesaver with young children who may have spills or accidents.

On the other hand, modern laminate flooring is also durable and some are water-resistant, making them a great option. Laminate flooring is available in a range of beautiful timber-look finishes for an authentic look and feel.

Laminates typically have a higher scratch resistance due to their melamine and aluminium oxide wear layer making them a viable option for homes with pets.

Homes with furry companions need a floor that can handle scratches, muddy paws, and the inevitable mess. Vinyl flooring is easy to clean and maintain although will require pet claws and paws to be in check to avoid scratching. Its waterproof nature is an added advantage for cleaning up any accidents.

There is no black or white “best product” here as there are solid options for both categories. Quick-Step laminates have a handy scratch guard top layer and Xpert Pro laminate styles are water-resistant and scratch-resistant. You can read more in our Hard Flooring and Pets Guide.

If you are renovating or building on a budget, there are appropriate options across both laminate and vinyl flooring styles. You also need to consider the longevity of the product, installation and any pre-installation preparation that may factor into the overall costs. Flooring Xtra stores are more than happy to help with a free measure and quote, or you can start researching products on the How to Set a Budget page.

When renovating an investment property, durability and cost-effectiveness are key. You want a flooring option that looks good, appeals to a wide range of tenants, and requires minimal upkeep. Vinyl flooring is a top choice here due to its durability, ease of maintenance, and stylish appearance. It can withstand the wear and tear from multiple tenants over time, minimising the need for replacements. Laminate wood flooring can also be a good option if you’re looking to keep costs down while still offering a stylish, authentic space. Look for attributes such as scratch resistance (such as Mooloolaba Lamanite or Xpert Pro Laminate ) and waterproof surface (such as Wilderness Vinyl) as well as resilience (TruFit vinyl for a start!).

In smaller spaces like apartments or units, the choice often comes down to aesthetics and ease of installation. Laminate flooring can add a warm, inviting look that makes smaller spaces feel cosy. Vinyl, particularly Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP), can also be a fantastic choice for apartments, offering a stylish look with the added benefits of being quiet underfoot and reducing in-room footfall noise. Karri LVP is an excellent choice with it’s superior plank thickness while rugs are also beneficial for absorbing sound and adding softness.

Some apartment blocks can dictate the style of flooring installed in an effort to reduce noise between floors and apartments. It’s best to check with building management to see if there are any restrictions in place.

Open-plan living spaces require a flooring choice that can handle a variety of activities while providing a cohesive look. Both laminate and vinyl can achieve this and it comes down to budget and appearance.

Luxury floor vinyl can work well in open-plan areas, particularly if you choose high-quality LVP. It’s practical for spaces that blend living, dining, and kitchen areas because of its durability and ease of cleaning. Vinyl is glued down and can be laid in expansive spaces. Laminate on the other hand is a floating installation, meaning there might be expansion joins in some larger rooms. Your local Flooring Xtra installation team are more than happy to advise which product is most suitable for your application.

Both vinyl and laminate flooring have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and the conditions of your home. Consider your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals when making the decision, and you’ll find the perfect flooring to suit your home!

How do I clean laminate floors?

Laminate floors, like all hard flooring, should be frequently vacuumed or swept to remove dirt or grit to minimise scratching or wear. It’s also important to clean up any spills as quickly as possible. Read our Hard Flooring Care Guide for more information.

What is laminate flooring?

Laminate flooring is constructed from several layers to create the appearance of timber or stone. Laminate floors utilise cutting edge photographic technology to simulate the grain, stain and texture of wood at a fraction of the price. It’s highly resistant to scratches, dents and stains, with the top layer, known as the wear layer, usually made of a aluminium oxide or melamine resin which enhances its durability.

Is vinyl flooring good for a kitchen?

Vinyl flooring installed in a kitchen is a great option. It’s durable, easy to clean and some products are also water resistant. Perfect for busy family homes!

In some states of Australia, the building regulations for Vinyl Planks, Vinyl Tiles and Hybrid flooring varies. Meaning they may not be suitable for areas requiring water resistance, such as bathrooms and toilets. We advise to always ask your local Flooring Xtra store for the correct advice regarding the local regulations. We also advise to follow the manufacturer’s recommended installation instructions and guidelines, not following the instructions could make the product not fit for purpose, for the areas being installed into and void your product warranty. To ensure you get the appropriate product for those areas, please contact your local Flooring Xtra store.