For years, luxury vinyl plank had the stronger case. But today’s laminate looks better, feels more substantial underfoot, and may be worth comparing before you decide.
Laminate and luxury vinyl plank can look similar at first glance. The real decision comes down to how the room will be used, how much moisture is part of the picture, and what you want the floor to feel like underfoot.
Today’s laminate can be a strong option if you want a wood-look floor with a thicker profile, a more solid feel, and a price that may come in lower than some luxury vinyl plank options.
Luxury vinyl plank still has the stronger moisture story. If spills, pets, damp areas, or heavy everyday use are major concerns, LVP may be the easier floor to live with.
Ken explains why laminate is worth reconsidering — and how to weigh it against luxury vinyl plank for your home.
Laminate fell out of favor for a straightforward reason: luxury vinyl plank had the better moisture story. Older laminate floors could look dated, and when they got wet, swelling at the seams was a real concern.
Today’s laminate is a different product. The look has improved, moisture resistance has improved, and the floor often feels more substantial underfoot than luxury vinyl plank.
The stronger case for laminate usually comes down to three things: it may be less expensive, it often has a thicker profile, and it can feel more solid when you walk across it. That last point is not minor — people notice it.
That does not make laminate the right choice for every room. If moisture is a major concern, luxury vinyl plank may still be the easier recommendation. The mistake is assuming laminate is the same product people remember from years ago.
Cost is often part of the decision. Laminate may come in at a lower price than luxury vinyl plank, though there is overlap depending on the product, brand, and installation details.
Thickness can also matter. A thicker floor may feel more substantial, and it can affect how the floor meets nearby rooms, stairs, doorways, or other surfaces. In some homes, that is a small detail. In others, it is worth talking through before installation.
Moisture is still where luxury vinyl plank has the clearer advantage. New laminate has improved, but if repeated water exposure is likely, LVP may be the safer direction.
The right choice comes down to your room, your expectations, and which trade-offs you are most comfortable living with.
Our Middletown showroom has samples of both. You can compare how they look, feel the difference underfoot, and talk through which one makes sense for your space.
