What is More Expensive: Laminate or Vinyl Flooring? (5 Key Price Factors)
Spring and summer always get me thinking about refreshing my living space, especially the floors beneath my feet.
There’s something about the sunlight streaming through windows that makes dull, worn floors feel even more noticeable.
If you’re like me, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Should I go with laminate or vinyl flooring? Which one costs more?”
I’ve been a flooring contractor for years, and this is one of the questions I get most often.
The answer isn’t straightforward because so many factors influence the total cost.
I want to help you sort through these details so you can make a choice that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Let’s explore what affects the cost of laminate and vinyl flooring, backed by facts, real project stories, and my personal insights.
What is More Expensive: Laminate or Vinyl Flooring?
Before comparing prices, let’s get clear on what laminate and vinyl flooring really are.
They’re popular alternatives to hardwood because they mimic its look without the heavy price tag.
But their construction and properties differ significantly.
Laminate flooring is a multi-layer product primarily made of high-density fiberboard (HDF).
On top of that HDF core is a photographic layer that recreates wood grain or stone patterns.
Finally, there’s a clear protective wear layer that resists scratches and stains.
Vinyl flooring is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of plastic.
It can come in sheets, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), or planks (LVP).
Vinyl often features several layers including a backing layer, a printed pattern layer, a wear layer, and sometimes a protective top coat.
Both materials have evolved a lot in quality and style over recent years.
Vinyl’s waterproof properties make it popular for kitchens and bathrooms.
Laminate offers a very natural wood look at a lower price point but is more sensitive to moisture.
Understanding these basics helps us evaluate which flooring might cost more overall.
1. Material Costs: What You Pay Before Installation
The first thing most people look at is the price per square foot for the flooring itself.
Laminate Material Costs
When I order laminate for clients, I see prices ranging broadly from $1 up to $5 per square foot.
Budget brands start around $1-$2 but often have thinner wear layers and less realistic finishes.
Mid-range laminate usually costs $2-$3/sq ft and offers better durability and visuals.
High-end laminate with thicker wear layers and embossed textures can reach $4-$5 per square foot.
One project I did recently involved a client choosing an oak-look laminate at $2.75/sq ft.
They wanted a warm look without breaking the bank.
This was perfect for their living room, which sees moderate foot traffic.
Vinyl Material Costs
Vinyl flooring material costs vary more widely due to different product types:
- Vinyl sheets: $2 – $5 per sq ft
- Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT): $3 – $7 per sq ft
- Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP): $3 – $7 per sq ft
Luxury vinyl products tend to have thicker wear layers (20 mils or more
