Luxury Vinyl Plank vs. Laminate Flooring: Which Is Right for Your Home in 2025?

When it’s time to upgrade your floors, two of the most popular options homeowners compare are Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Laminate flooring. Both offer the look of hardwood without the high price tag, and both are designed for easy installation and long-lasting durability. But which one is actually the right fit for your home?

Modern living room with teal walls, white sideboard, lvp floor, wall clock, and art. Shelves and plants create a cozy atmosphere.

If you're trying to decide between the two, you’re not alone—this is one of the most common questions we hear during our in-home quotes. Below, we break down the pros, cons, and key differences to help you make the best decision for your space.

💡 Looking for a floor that handles spills, pets, and daily life without stress? Our LVP installation service brings high-performance flooring directly to your door—with samples, expert advice, and a guaranteed price.

What Is Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)?

Layered flooring diagram for LVP or Luxury Vinyl Plank showing: Ceramic Bead Finish UV Coating, Wear Layer, High Definition Decor Film, Solid Polymer Core Board, IXPE Padding.

LVP is a high-performance, waterproof flooring designed to mimic the look and texture of real hardwood. Built with a durable vinyl layer over a rigid SPC or WPC core, it’s made to handle moisture, traffic, and real-life wear and tear.

LVP is:

100% waterproof
Softer and quieter underfoot than laminate or hardwood
Scratch- and dent-resistant (ideal for pets and kids)
Compatible with uneven subfloors thanks to its click-lock floating installation
A top choice for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and open-plan homes

Most LVP options also include a built-in cork underlayment, which helps reduce sound and adds comfort—especially useful for multi-story homes.

What Is Laminate Flooring?

Diagram of layered laminate flooring with labeled sections: Wear Layer, Photographic Layer, Core Board, Backing Layer. Arrows indicate each part.

Laminate flooring is made from high-density fiberboard topped with a photo-realistic wood image and a protective clear coat. It’s a budget-friendly, hard surface flooring that can convincingly mimic hardwood while still being relatively durable and easy to clean.

Modern laminate—like the 72-hour water-resistant laminate we carry—offers:

A tough wear layer that resists scratches and dents
Water resistance in the short term (not waterproof)
A slightly firmer, louder feel underfoot
A great value for bedrooms, living rooms, and low-moisture areas

While laminate has come a long way in terms of durability and looks, it’s still not ideal for wet areas like bathrooms or laundry rooms, where standing water can cause damage if left unaddressed.

LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) vs. Laminate: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)	Laminate Flooring
Water Resistance	✅ 100% Waterproof	⚠️ Water-resistant (up to 72 hrs)
Durability	Excellent	Very good
Feel Underfoot	Softer, quieter (cork backing)	Firmer, slightly louder
Pet & Kid Friendly	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Installation Method	Floating (click-lock)	Floating (click-lock)
Ideal Rooms	Bathrooms, kitchens, basements	Bedrooms, living areas
Price Range	Moderate	Budget-friendly
Lifespan	15–20+ years	10–15 years

Which Flooring Is Right for You?

Both LVP and laminate are excellent choices—but the right pick comes down to your needs, lifestyle, and the rooms you’re updating.

When comparing luxury vinyl plank vs laminate, it’s important to think about how each flooring type performs in the real world—not just how it looks in a showroom. While both mimic the appearance of hardwood, the difference in water resistance, durability, and comfort underfoot can make a big impact depending on where you're installing it. For homes with kids, pets, or higher moisture areas like kitchens and basements, LVP typically outperforms laminate in both function and longevity.

Modern kitchen with a navy island, wooden stools, white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, light lvp or Luxury Vinyl Plank floor, and large window. Cozy vibe.

👉 Choose LVP if you:

Need true waterproof protection in bathrooms, kitchens, or basements
Want a quieter, more comfortable feel
Have kids, pets, or heavy daily foot traffic
Prefer a long-lasting, low-maintenance floor

Spacious room with light laminate wood flooring, white walls, and a staircase leading up. Open doorways and natural light create an airy feel.

👉 Choose Laminate if you:

Are updating dry areas like bedrooms or home offices
Want to keep the budget tight while still getting a hardwood look
Prefer a hard, smooth surface with solid scratch resistance

At Better Call Paul Flooring, we carry both—and we’ll walk you through the pros and cons during your in-home appointment so you can see and feel the difference in person.

✅ Schedule Your Quote and See the Difference for Yourself

Not sure which flooring fits your space and lifestyle? We’ll bring both options to you, walk through the pros and cons, and give you a no-pressure, all-in quote on the spot.

Click below to schedule your free in-home consultation and find the right floor for your home—no guesswork, no hidden fees.👉 Get a Quote for LVP Installation