Kitchen Flooring: Laminate vs. Vinyl (LVP) Comparison

You’ve narrowed your kitchen flooring choice to two practical, budget-friendly options: laminate or luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Both look great in showrooms, both claim durability, and both fall within similar price ranges. So how do you actually choose between them?

The decision comes down to your specific priorities. Water exposure concerns, the type of wear your kitchen sees, your budget, and even how the floor feels underfoot all factor into which material works best for your space.

Let’s compare these two popular options directly so you can make a confident choice for your kitchen renovation.

Construction Differences That Matter

Understanding how laminate and luxury vinyl plank are made helps explain their different performance characteristics.

Laminate flooring consists of four layers. The top wear layer is a clear, hard protective coating—typically aluminum oxide or melamine—that resists scratches and stains. Below that sits a decorative layer with a high-resolution image of wood, stone, or tile. The core layer uses high-density fiberboard (HDF) or, in waterproof versions, a plastic composite. A backing layer provides stability and moisture resistance.

Luxury vinyl plank also uses a layered construction, but with different materials. The wear layer is polyurethane, which provides scratch resistance and surface protection. The decorative layer displays the wood or stone pattern. The core varies by product—some use solid vinyl, others use wood-plastic composite (WPC), and premium versions use stone-plastic composite (SPC). A backing layer adds dimensional stability.

The core material creates the biggest functional difference. Laminate’s HDF core is denser and harder, giving it rigidity and a more authentic wood-like feel. Traditional HDF cores can swell if exposed to moisture, though waterproof laminate addresses this with plastic composite cores and sealed edges.

Vinyl’s flexible core makes it naturally waterproof throughout the entire plank. WPC cores add some rigidity while maintaining waterproof properties. SPC cores offer the most dimensional stability and feel closer to laminate’s solid underfoot sensation.

Water Resistance: The Key Differentiator

This is where the two materials diverge most significantly, and it matters especially in kitchens.

Luxury vinyl plank is 100% waterproof. The entire plank—wear layer, decorative layer, core, and backing—can handle water exposure indefinitely without damage. If your dishwasher leaks overnight or a pipe under the sink breaks, LVP won’t warp, swell, or delaminate. This complete water immunity gives homeowners peace of mind in moisture-prone areas.

Laminate’s water resistance depends on the specific product. Traditional laminate with HDF cores is water-resistant, meaning it can handle small spills if cleaned up relatively quickly. The wear layer repels water on the surface, but moisture that seeps into seams or sits for extended periods can cause the HDF core to swell.

Waterproof laminate improves this significantly. These products use sealed edges, waterproof cores (often plastic composite instead of HDF), and tight locking systems that prevent moisture penetration. Quality waterproof laminate can withstand spills for 24 to 72 hours, making it nearly as forgiving as LVP for typical kitchen mishaps.

The practical difference: LVP offers maximum water protection with no effort required. Waterproof laminate provides excellent protection but isn’t quite as bulletproof. If you frequently forget about spills or want absolute peace of mind, LVP edges ahead. If you’re reasonably attentive to kitchen messes, waterproof laminate performs admirably.

Durability and Scratch Resistance

Both materials resist daily wear, but they handle impacts and scratches differently.

Laminate’s hard wear layer excels at scratch resistance. The aluminum oxide or melamine coating is extremely hard—harder than vinyl’s polyurethane wear layer. Sharp pet claws, dragged chair legs, dropped kitchen utensils, and gritty debris have minimal impact on quality laminate. The rigid HDF core also resists denting from heavy appliances or dropped objects.

For perspective, laminate with AC4 or AC5 ratings is approved for commercial use precisely because of this scratch and dent resistance. In busy kitchens where durability matters, laminate’s hardness provides lasting appearance retention.

Luxury vinyl plank has a softer surface that’s more prone to scratching and denting. Heavy appliances can leave indentations in vinyl floors, especially in softer WPC core products. Sharp objects can gouge the wear layer more easily than they would with laminate. However, premium LVP with thick wear layers (20 mil or more) and rigid SPC cores closes this gap considerably.

The trade-off: vinyl’s softer surface can actually be an advantage if you frequently drop dishes or glassware. Items that would shatter on hard tile or even laminate have a slightly better survival rate on vinyl’s more forgiving surface.

In terms of overall durability, both materials last 15 to 25 years in residential kitchens with proper care. Premium products from both categories can exceed 30 years. The difference lies in what type of damage is more likely in your specific household.

Appearance and Feel

Modern manufacturing has made both laminate and LVP remarkably realistic in appearance. You’d be hard-pressed to distinguish quality products from several feet away.

Laminate often has a slight edge in photographic realism because of its high-definition decorative layer. The images can be incredibly detailed, capturing subtle wood grain variations and natural character marks. The harder surface also allows for more detailed embossing that follows the grain pattern precisely (called embossed-in-register or EIR).

Luxury vinyl plank counters with superior texture variety. Because vinyl is flexible, manufacturers can create deeper, more varied surface textures. Some premium vinyl products have textured surfaces that feel nearly identical to real wood—rough grain, smooth grain, and authentic character all in one plank.

The feel underfoot differs noticeably. Laminate feels more like real hardwood—solid, rigid, with minimal give. When you walk across laminate, it feels substantial. Some people describe a slightly hollow sound compared to solid wood, but quality underlayment minimizes this.

Vinyl has more cushion and flexibility. It feels softer and warmer underfoot, which some homeowners prefer for kitchens where they stand for extended periods while cooking. Others find it feels less premium than laminate’s solid sensation. This is subjective—try walking on both in a showroom to determine your preference.

Temperature-wise, vinyl tends to feel warmer than laminate in cold weather because it doesn’t conduct temperature as readily. In hot weather, both materials stay relatively cool compared to tile or stone.

Installation Considerations

Both laminate and luxury vinyl plank use click-lock installation systems, making them relatively DIY-friendly compared to tile or hardwood. However, there are differences in the installation process.

Laminate is a floating floor that requires expansion gaps around the perimeter—typically 1/4 inch—to allow for natural expansion and contraction. These gaps must be maintained along all walls, cabinets, and posts. The floor cannot be attached to the subfloor and needs room to “float” as environmental conditions change.

Subfloor preparation for laminate requires a level surface. Uneven subfloors can cause the rigid laminate to flex, potentially damaging the locking mechanisms or creating noticeable dips. Professional installers typically level subfloors within 3/16 inch over 10 feet.

Luxury vinyl plank also uses a floating installation in many cases, though some products can be glued down. Because vinyl is flexible, it conforms to minor subfloor imperfections better than laminate. This can make installation slightly more forgiving on less-than-perfect subfloors.

Some luxury vinyl products are designed for direct glue-down installation, which can be beneficial in kitchens with irregular layouts or where dimensional stability is crucial. Loose-lay vinyl even exists, where the planks stay in place through friction and weight rather than locking systems.

Both materials can typically be installed in one to two days for average-sized kitchens. The floor is usually walkable immediately after installation, though you should wait 24 to 48 hours before replacing heavy furniture or appliances.

Underlayment requirements differ. Laminate almost always requires separate underlayment for moisture protection and sound dampening, though some products come with attached underlayment. Luxury vinyl plank may or may not need underlayment depending on the product and subfloor type. Rigid core SPC vinyl often doesn’t require underlayment, while WPC vinyl benefits from it.

Professional installation costs are similar—typically $2 to $4 per square foot for labor beyond materials. DIY installation is achievable for handy homeowners with either material, though laminate’s need for precise expansion gaps and level subfloors requires more attention to detail.

Cost Comparison

Price ranges overlap significantly between laminate and luxury vinyl plank, though there’s nuance within each category.

Budget tier ($2–$4 per square foot): Both materials available at this price point, though quality varies. Budget laminate may lack waterproof features and have thinner wear layers. Budget vinyl typically has thinner wear layers and less realistic textures. Installation costs $2–$3 per square foot.

Mid-range ($4–$6 per square foot): This is the sweet spot for both materials. You get waterproof laminate with good AC ratings or quality LVP with decent wear layers and realistic appearances. Most homeowners renovating kitchens shop in this range. Installation runs $2–$4 per square foot.

Premium ($6–$10+ per square foot): High-end versions of both materials feature the thickest wear layers, most realistic appearances, and best warranties. Premium laminate offers AC5 ratings and 20+ mil wear layers. Premium vinyl uses SPC cores with exceptional dimensional stability and ultra-thick wear layers.

For comparable quality levels, prices are nearly identical. A mid-range waterproof laminate and mid-range rigid core LVP will cost about the same per square foot installed.

Long-term costs favor both materials equally. Neither requires refinishing (unlike hardwood), special sealants (unlike tile grout), or expensive maintenance. Cleaning products are inexpensive and widely available.

Replacement costs if needed are similar since both materials last 15 to 25+ years. When it’s time to replace, you’ll likely be renovating for style reasons rather than because the floor has failed.

Maintenance and Care

Daily maintenance is simple and similar for both materials.

For laminate, sweep or vacuum regularly to remove grit and debris, then damp mop with laminate-specific cleaners as needed. Wipe spills promptly—even waterproof laminate performs best without standing water. Avoid steam mops and excessive moisture. Place mats in front of sinks and use felt pads under furniture legs.

Luxury vinyl plank follows the same routine: regular sweeping or vacuuming, damp mopping with vinyl-safe cleaners, and prompt spill cleanup. Vinyl is more forgiving of moisture, so you can use slightly wetter mops if needed. Avoid rubber-backed rugs that can discolor vinyl over time. Skip wax or polish products.

Neither material requires special treatments, refinishing, or professional deep cleaning under normal circumstances. This low maintenance is one reason both are popular for kitchens.

Damage response differs between the two. Laminate cannot be repaired if the wear layer is damaged—you’d need to replace affected planks. Luxury vinyl plank also requires plank replacement if damaged, but minor scratches can sometimes be buffed out or concealed with vinyl repair kits.

For both materials, keeping manufacturer-approved cleaning products on hand and avoiding harsh chemicals preserves the wear layer and extends floor life.

Environmental and Health Considerations

Both laminate and luxury vinyl plank have environmental pros and cons worth understanding.

Laminate typically uses wood-based cores, making it partially renewable. Many manufacturers use recycled wood content in HDF cores. Quality laminate carries FloorScore or GreenGuard certifications indicating low VOC emissions. The manufacturing process has become more environmentally conscious over the years.

However, laminate does use resins and adhesives in construction. Look for products with CARB2 certification, indicating compliance with California’s strict formaldehyde emission standards.

Luxury vinyl plank is petroleum-based plastic. While this isn’t renewable, vinyl production has become more efficient and less toxic. Many premium vinyl products are recyclable at end of life, though recycling programs aren’t universally available. Quality LVP also carries FloorScore or GreenGuard certifications for indoor air quality.

Phthalates—plasticizers used in some vinyl products—have raised health concerns. Reputable manufacturers now produce phthalate-free vinyl. Check for specific certifications or ask about phthalate content if this concerns you.

For indoor air quality, both materials are safe when you choose certified products from reputable manufacturers. Initial off-gassing occurs with both materials after installation. Proper ventilation for 48 to 72 hours after installation allows any odors to dissipate.

In terms of overall environmental impact, neither material is perfect. Laminate has the advantage of wood content; vinyl has the advantage of being fully waterproof without chemical treatments. Choose based on your priorities and select certified products to ensure safety.

Which One Should You Choose?

Your specific situation determines the best choice.

Choose luxury vinyl plank if:

• Maximum water protection is your top priority
• You prefer a softer, warmer feel underfoot
• Your kitchen sees frequent water exposure
• You have concerns about forgetting to clean up spills
• Your subfloor is less than perfectly level
• You want flexibility in installation methods (floating, glue-down, or loose-lay)

Choose laminate flooring if:

• Scratch and dent resistance matters most to your household
• You prefer a firmer, more solid feel that mimics real hardwood
• You want the hardest possible surface for durability
• Your kitchen has heavy foot traffic or active pets with claws
• You prefer the slightly more realistic wood grain appearance
• You want a floor that feels substantial underfoot

Both work equally well if:

• You’re renovating on a mid-range budget
• You need a floor that looks great and lasts 20+ years
• You want low-maintenance flooring
• You’re seeking realistic wood or stone appearances
• Installation speed and simplicity matter

Making Your Decision at Leicester Flooring

We stock quality options in both categories because we understand different homes have different needs. Shaw’s waterproof laminate collections, Mohawk’s RevWood lines, and premium luxury vinyl plank from COREtec all perform excellently in kitchens—they just perform slightly differently.

The best way to choose is to see and touch samples in person. Colors and textures photograph differently than they appear in real life. Walking on both types of flooring helps you understand the feel difference that descriptions can’t fully capture.

Our experienced team can assess your specific kitchen conditions, discuss your priorities, and recommend products that align with your needs. We’ll show you water resistance demonstrations, explain wear layer differences, and help you understand warranty coverage.

With 50 years in the flooring business, we’ve installed both laminate and luxury vinyl in thousands of Western North Carolina kitchens. We can share insights on how different products perform in our regional climate and answer questions based on real customer experiences, not just manufacturer specifications.

Free in-home measurements remove the guesswork from project planning. We’ll evaluate your subfloor, assess any moisture concerns, discuss your design preferences, and provide accurate estimates so you can move forward confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vinyl or laminate better for kitchens?

Both work well in kitchens with different advantages. Vinyl offers superior water protection and a softer feel, making it ideal if water resistance is your top priority. Laminate provides better scratch and dent resistance with a harder surface, making it ideal for high-traffic durability. For most homeowners, either quality waterproof laminate or premium LVP will perform excellently.

What is more durable, laminate or vinyl plank flooring?

Laminate is harder and more scratch-resistant, making it more durable against surface scratching and denting from heavy objects. Vinyl is completely waterproof and more impact-absorbent, making it more durable against moisture damage. Both last 15 to 25+ years in kitchens with proper care.

Does laminate scratch easier than vinyl?

No, laminate’s harder wear layer resists scratches better than vinyl’s softer surface. Laminate with AC4 or AC5 ratings handles pet claws, dragged furniture, and gritty debris more effectively than luxury vinyl plank. However, premium LVP with thick wear layers (20 mil+) offers improved scratch resistance compared to thinner vinyl products.

Is laminate or LVP better for resale value?

Both add similar value to homes. Quality flooring in good condition appeals to buyers regardless of whether it’s laminate or vinyl. Waterproof features (available in both categories) add appeal in kitchens and bathrooms. Installation quality and appearance matter more to resale value than the specific material choice between these two options.

Can you tell the difference between laminate and vinyl?

In person, yes, especially underfoot. Laminate feels harder and more rigid like real hardwood, while vinyl feels softer and more flexible. Visually, high-quality products from both categories look remarkably similar. Most people can’t tell the difference from appearance alone once installed.

Does vinyl flooring feel cheap?

Quality luxury vinyl plank does not feel cheap. Premium products with rigid SPC cores and thick wear layers feel substantial and high-quality. Budget vinyl with thin wear layers and basic cores may feel less premium. The same applies to laminate—quality correlates with feel in both materials.

What lasts longer, vinyl or laminate flooring?

Both last 15 to 25 years typically, with premium products exceeding 30 years. Longevity depends more on quality level, installation precision, and maintenance than on whether you choose laminate or vinyl. Proper care is the biggest factor in floor lifespan for both materials.

Is luxury vinyl plank worth the extra cost over laminate?

They’re typically priced similarly for comparable quality levels. Premium LVP and premium waterproof laminate cost about the same. Choose based on performance priorities rather than cost since prices overlap. If complete waterproof protection matters most, vinyl is worth it. If maximum scratch resistance matters most, laminate is worth it.

Ready to see both options in person? Visit our Asheville or Hendersonville showrooms to compare laminate and luxury vinyl plank side by side, or schedule a free consultation to discuss which works best for your kitchen.