Laminate vs. Vinyl vs. Hardwood Flooring: Pros, Cons, and Costs Compared
by Kirill Kutsak , 13 min reading time
There are many different flooring options, but the most popular are laminate flooring, vinyl flooring, and hardwood flooring. Each of the three has its own strengths and weaknesses, so let's compare them in terms of cost, durability, and maintenance to settle the laminate vs. vinyl vs. hardwood flooring debate.
Quick Points
- Laminate is affordable and versatile but lacks the durability and refinishing options of hardwood.
- Vinyl (LVP/LVT) is ideal for moisture-prone areas and is priced similarly to laminate, though it may not add as much value to a home’s resale price.
- Hardwood remains a top-tier choice for its aesthetics and longevity but comes with higher costs and maintenance requirements.
Flooring Installation Costs in Vaughan (and Toronto)
If you’re planning a flooring project in Vaughan or Toronto, here’s a quick look at average installation costs for 2025. Whether you're looking to install laminate, vinyl, or hardwood, our team at PlumbingMarket.ca provides competitive pricing—and free delivery in both cities.
| Flooring Type | Material Cost (per sq. ft.) | Installation Cost (per sq. ft.) | Total Cost (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate | $1.50 – $3.50 | $2.00 – $3.50 | $3.50 – $7.00 |
| Vinyl (LVP/LVT) | $2.00 – $5.00 | $2.50 – $4.00 | $4.50 – $9.00 |
| Hardwood | $6.00 – $10.00 | $3.50 – $6.00 | $9.50 – $16.00 |
Free Delivery: All flooring orders include free delivery to Vaughan and Toronto, saving you time and money.
Need help finding a local installer? Visit our Contractors Centre to explore trusted flooring and renovation professionals in your area. Whether you’re looking for 24/7 emergency services (red badge) or our top-recommended experts (blue badge), we’ve got you covered.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is an affordable alternative to real materials like wood and stone, offering easier installation and maintenance. It is also considered a more sustainable option because some brands use recycled materials and require fewer natural resources than hardwood. Available in a variety of styles and durability levels (rated AC1 to AC5, with higher ratings better suited for heavy traffic), laminate is a practical choice for busy households. However, unlike hardwood, it cannot be sanded down or repaired once damaged. It works best in high-traffic areas such as hallways and homes with kids or pets.
Pros of Laminate Flooring:
- Affordability: Laminate is significantly cheaper than hardwood, making it a great choice for homeowners who want the look of wood or stone without the high cost.
- Easy installation: With its click-and-lock systems, laminate flooring is ideal for DIY projects and helps reduce installation expenses.
- Durability: Scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, and fade-resistant, laminate performs well in busy households. Many options are designed to withstand wear and tear from kids and pets.
- Low maintenance: Simple cleaning—regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping—keeps laminate looking fresh without special treatments.
- Variety: Available in a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns, laminate flooring can complement nearly any interior style.
Cons of Laminate Flooring:
- Moisture sensitivity: Standard laminate doesn’t handle moisture well, which can cause warping or swelling. However, modern water-resistant laminate options are designed for kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas, providing a more versatile solution without sacrificing style or budget.
- Limited lifespan: Unlike hardwood, laminate cannot be refinished. Once worn out, it must be replaced.
- Sound and feel: Laminate can have a hollow or artificial sound underfoot, but using quality underlayment can improve comfort and noise reduction.
- Resale value: While laminate is stylish and practical, it generally adds less resale value than hardwood. However, high-end laminate options with realistic wood textures can still appeal to buyers.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is a durable, water-resistant alternative to wood and laminate, making it a practical choice for busy homes. Made from synthetic materials, it stands up well to moisture, heavy foot traffic, and everyday wear. This versatility makes it a popular option for both residential and commercial spaces. It's best for households that need waterproof, low-maintenance flooring for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.
Vinyl comes in multiple formats, with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) gaining popularity. These thicker, more realistic versions of standard vinyl feature textured surfaces that closely mimic wood or stone. Traditional sheet vinyl is another budget-friendly option, offering seamless installation and strong water resistance, though it may lack the premium aesthetic of LVP and LVT. While LVP and LVT offer enhanced aesthetics, all vinyl flooring shares key benefits, with differences depending on format and installation type.
Pros of Vinyl Flooring:
- Waterproof: Vinyl’s moisture resistance makes it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and other humid areas.
- Highly durable: Scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, and dent-resistant, vinyl holds up well in high-traffic spaces.
- Easy maintenance: Regular sweeping and occasional mopping keep vinyl looking fresh—no special treatments required.
- Comfortable and quiet: Softer and quieter underfoot than laminate or hardwood, vinyl enhances comfort in living spaces.
- Wide design selection: Available in a variety of wood-look and stone-look designs, with textured finishes for added realism. LVP and LVT provide some of the most authentic visuals.
- DIY-friendly installation: Click-lock vinyl planks and tiles make installation accessible to homeowners without professional help.
Cons of Vinyl Flooring:
- Environmental impact: Made from PVC, vinyl has a higher environmental footprint compared to natural materials.
- Resale value: While stylish and functional, vinyl generally doesn’t add as much resale value as hardwood.
- Difficult repairs: Though durable, replacing damaged vinyl—especially glue-down varieties—can be challenging without professional assistance.
Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring is often considered the gold standard in home design—and for good reason. It looks great, adds value to a home, and complements most styles. It can last for decades, even without refinishing—something that isn’t possible with vinyl. However, these benefits come at a price, as hardwood tends to be more expensive due to the use of natural wood.
Pros of Hardwood Flooring:
- Aesthetic appeal: Hardwood’s natural grain patterns and rich variations create a warmth and elegance that synthetic materials can’t fully replicate.
- Longevity: With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades—some have remained beautiful for over a century.
- Increased home value: Homes with hardwood flooring often sell faster and at higher prices, as buyers see it as a premium feature.
- Eco-friendly: Sourced from sustainable forests, hardwood is a renewable material with a lower environmental footprint than vinyl.
- Refinishing capability: Unlike laminate or vinyl, hardwood can be sanded and refinished multiple times, extending its lifespan and allowing for style updates.
Cons of Hardwood Flooring:
- Higher cost: Hardwood is the most expensive of the three options, both in material price and professional installation.
- Maintenance needs: While durable, hardwood is prone to scratches, dents, and water damage, requiring regular care.
- Installation complexity: Professional installation is often necessary, and hardwood must acclimate before being installed.
- Humidity sensitivity: Wood expands and contracts with humidity changes, which can lead to gaps or warping if not properly managed.
Solid Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood
Hardwood flooring comes in two main types: solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. While both offer the beauty and durability of real wood, they differ in construction and performance.
Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of wood, typically ¾-inch thick, and is known for its longevity. With proper care, it can last for generations and be refinished multiple times. However, it is sensitive to moisture and temperature fluctuations, which can cause expansion or contraction. Because of this, it’s not ideal for areas with high humidity, such as basements or bathrooms. Installation usually requires nailing or stapling the planks to a wood subfloor, often necessitating professional assistance. The cost is also higher compared to engineered hardwood, both in materials and labor.
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, consists of a real wood veneer on top of a layered plywood or fiberboard core. This structure makes it more resistant to humidity and temperature changes, reducing the risk of warping. It’s a more versatile option that can be installed in a wider range of spaces, including basements and kitchens. Installation is also easier, as engineered hardwood can be glued, nailed, or floated, making it a more accessible choice for DIY projects. While it provides the same visual appeal as solid hardwood, its refinishing potential is limited. The number of times it can be sanded down depends on the thickness of the top wood layer, and in some cases, refinishing isn’t an option at all.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the two depends on factors like budget, location, and long-term plans. Solid hardwood is the better choice for homeowners looking for a floor that will last a lifetime and can be refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood, however, is a more practical option for areas where moisture resistance and easier installation are priorities. That said, both options bring the warmth and character of real wood, enhancing your home's overall aesthetic and design.
Comparing Laminate vs. Vinyl vs. Hardwood Flooring
Let’s break down how these three popular flooring choices compare across essential factors.
Cost Comparison
Note: Flooring costs vary depending on location, material quality, and installation complexity. These ranges provide a general idea but may differ based on your specific region or supplier.
| Flooring Type | Material Cost per sq. ft. | Installation Cost per sq. ft. | Total Cost per sq. ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood | $6 – $12 | $3 – $8 | $9 – $20 |
| Laminate | $1 – $5 | $2 – $5 | $3 – $10 |
| Vinyl (LVP/LVT) | $2 – $7 | $2 – $5 | $4 – $12 |
Winner for Budget: Laminate flooring is the most cost-effective, especially for large areas.
Durability Comparison
| Flooring Type | Scratch Resistance | Water Resistance | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood | Moderate | Low | 30–100 years |
| Laminate | High | Moderate (water-resistant versions available) | 10–30 years |
| Vinyl (LVP/LVT) | High | High (100% waterproof) | 15–30 years |
Winner for Durability: Vinyl flooring excels in both scratch and water resistance.
Ease of Maintenance and Cleaning
| Flooring Type | Cleaning Requirements | Long-Term Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Hardwood | Regular sweeping, damp mopping | Refinishing every 7–10 years |
| Laminate | Sweeping, damp mopping (avoid standing water) | No refinishing, replace when worn |
| Vinyl (LVP/LVT) | Sweeping, mopping with mild cleaner | No refinishing, easy to replace |
Winner for Maintenance: Vinyl flooring requires the least maintenance and holds up well in high-traffic areas.
Which Flooring Should You Choose?
- Choose hardwood flooring if you want a timeless, elegant look that increases home value and you’re prepared for the higher upfront cost and maintenance.
- Choose laminate flooring if you’re on a budget, love the look of wood, and need something easy to install and durable against scratches.
- Choose vinyl flooring (especially LVP or LVT) if you need a waterproof, low-maintenance floor that’s great for busy households, pets, and moisture-prone rooms.
Each flooring type brings its own strengths to the table — the best choice for your home depends on your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and budget.
Looking to transform your home with the perfect flooring? Search no more! Explore our wide range of options today and find the perfect match for your space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is better, laminate or vinyl flooring?
It depends on your priorities! Vinyl flooring is better for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms because it’s 100% waterproof. Laminate, on the other hand, offers a more authentic wood feel underfoot and tends to be more scratch-resistant. Both are affordable and durable, making them great options for busy households.
What lasts longer, vinyl or laminate flooring?
Vinyl flooring typically lasts longer than laminate, especially in high-moisture environments. While laminate offers about 10–30 years of life, vinyl (particularly LVP and LVT) can easily last 15–30 years or more with proper care.
How long do solid hardwood floors last?
Solid hardwood floors can last 30–100 years (or longer) with proper maintenance. The ability to sand and refinish them multiple times extends their lifespan, making hardwood a long-term investment in your home’s beauty and value.
How many years does vinyl flooring last?
Vinyl flooring, including LVP and LVT, typically lasts 15–30 years. Its durability against water, scratches, and dents makes it ideal for high-traffic areas, and with minimal maintenance, it holds up beautifully over time.
