Flooring
Vinyl vs Laminate Wooden Flooring: Which Should You Choose?
Vinyl and laminate wooden flooring both go over your existing floor without breaking it up. They behave differently around water and wear. Here is how to pick the right one for each room.
The short answer
Choose vinyl where water, children or heavy use are a concern, such as kitchens, living areas and clinics. Choose laminate wooden flooring where you want the look of wood in dry rooms such as bedrooms and living rooms.
Comparison
| Point | Vinyl | Laminate wooden |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Waterproof material | Water-resistant, not waterproof |
| Feel underfoot | Softer and a little warmer | Harder, closer to real wood |
| Look | Wood, stone and plain finishes | Wood grain, matte and textured finishes |
| Best rooms | Kitchens, living areas, clinics, shops | Bedrooms, living rooms, offices |
| Installation | Rolls or planks laid over an existing level floor | Click planks laid over an underlay on a level floor |
| If one part is damaged | Plank types can be replaced; rolls are harder to repair | Individual planks can be replaced if spare stock is kept |
Check the base floor first
Whichever you choose, the floor underneath should be dry, clean and level. High spots and dips show through. A good installer measures the floor, tells you if levelling is needed and finishes the edges neatly with skirting and thresholds.
Think about the whole room
Flooring should match the walls and ceiling. For a bedroom, you may like a feature wall in wallpaper. For a shop or clinic, vinyl and a suitable false ceiling usually go together. Offices often use carpet tiles, which can be replaced one tile at a time.
Spare stock and warranty
Ask for a few spare planks at the end of the job and ask what warranty applies to the product and to the installation. Get both in writing.
Next step
Seeing samples in your own light and room is the easiest way to decide. Book a free site visit and we will measure, show samples and give you a written quotation.
Thickness and quality
Thickness and the quality of the wear layer affect how a floor feels and how long it lasts. Thicker laminate planks generally feel more solid and resist denting better. For vinyl, a better wear layer helps against scratches. Ask to see the product specifications and compare samples side by side, rather than judging by price alone.
Everyday use: what to expect
- Furniture: use felt pads under chair and table legs on both types, and avoid dragging heavy items.
- Sunlight: strong direct sun can fade or warm any floor over time; curtains or sun control film help.
- Pets and children: vinyl is usually more forgiving of spills; laminate needs quick wiping.
- Cleaning: sweep or vacuum, then damp-mop with a well wrung cloth. Do not flood either type with water.
Other options to know about
- Carpet tiles: modular tiles for offices and showrooms; a damaged tile is swapped on its own.
- Artificial grass: for balconies, terraces and play areas.
- Non-woven or PVC carpet: rolls for budget or temporary projects.
Questions to ask before you order
- Is my existing floor level and dry enough, or is levelling needed?
- What thickness and wear layer does this product have?
- How are the edges, skirting and door thresholds finished?
- Will I get spare planks, and what warranty applies?
- How long will the work take and can I use the room the same day?
What affects the quotation
The price depends on the floor area, the product and thickness, the condition of the existing floor, the amount of skirting and thresholds, and the room layout. We measure, show samples and give a written quotation.
Need help choosing? Book a free site visit. We measure, bring samples and give you a written quotation. See our flooring page for options.
Frequently asked questions
Can vinyl or laminate flooring be laid over existing tiles?
Often yes, provided the existing floor is level, dry and sound. The installer should check this during measurement and correct any uneven areas.
Is vinyl flooring waterproof?
Vinyl itself is waterproof, which is why it suits kitchens and homes with children. Water can still enter at the edges or seams, so wipe up large spills.
Is laminate flooring waterproof?
No. Laminate is water-resistant rather than waterproof. Standing water or leaks can damage it, so avoid it in bathrooms and wet balconies.
Which is better for bedrooms?
Both work. Laminate gives the look and feel of wood; vinyl is softer underfoot and more forgiving of spills. Pick based on the look you want and how the room is used.
This guide is general information from the Royal Decor team. Products, prices and timelines vary, and we confirm them in writing after measuring your site.
