Vinyl Plank vs Laminate Flooring 2025: Durability & Cost Guide
By Khloe Vuong
Vinyl plank flooring and laminate compete in 2025 remodels, but vinyl leads in wet areas. This guide from Oscar Surfaces compares durability, water resistance, and value to help you choose confidently.
Durability: Which Holds Up Better?
Both vinyl and laminate flooring offer solid protection—especially when equipped with a 20-mil wear layer. However, vinyl plank flooring features a flexible PVC core that can absorb impacts better. Laminate, although stiff and strong, can chip under heavy furniture. Furthermore, vinyl resists dents due to its multilayered structure. In addition, most premium vinyl planks come with scratch-guard coatings that extend product life. Laminate may still win in edge sharpness and wood mimicry, but vinyl’s performance under daily stress is hard to ignore.
Moisture Resistance: The Waterproof Winner
Moisture remains the biggest deal-breaker in flooring decisions. Laminate flooring contains wood byproducts, which swell when exposed to standing water. Therefore, it’s rarely used in bathrooms or basements. In contrast, vinyl plank flooring is 100% waterproof. Most importantly, its tight click-lock seams and synthetic composition protect subfloors from damage. Especially in Seattle’s wet climate, vinyl offers peace of mind. Moreover, many products now feature attached mold-resistant pads that eliminate the need for extra underlayment.
Aesthetics and Feel
When it comes to texture and edge detailing, laminate still has a following. Sharp beveled edges and wood-chip cores create an authentic plank feel. However, vinyl plank is catching up fast. Thanks to advanced embossing and registered textures, vinyl patterns often sync perfectly with natural wood visuals. In addition, matte finishes reduce glare and enhance realism. Designers also appreciate vinyl’s softer step underfoot—especially when installed over acoustic underlayment.
Price and Value
Price is another deciding factor. Laminate often starts at a slightly lower cost. Even so, vinyl’s durability and waterproof features reduce long-term maintenance costs. Therefore, while upfront pricing may be close, vinyl can offer better value over time. Furthermore, Oscar Surfaces provides scratch demo stations and side-by-side sample comparisons to help you decide.
Final Verdict: Visit Oscar Surfaces to See the Difference
Although both options suit different needs, vinyl plank flooring wins in areas requiring moisture resistance, long wear, and easy maintenance. Laminate may still be preferred for ultra-sharp wood looks, but vinyl continues to dominate where performance matters most. Most importantly, visiting our Seattle showroom allows you to see and feel both in real-world settings. Additionally, our experts can guide you on subfloor prep, warranties, and room-specific considerations.
