Are Vinyl Plank Floors Better Than Laminate Floors?

10/1/2025

Are Vinyl Plank Floors Better Than Laminate Floors?

When choosing a new floor for your Toronto home or condo, two options often come up: vinyl plank flooring and laminate flooring. Both offer stylish looks, affordable pricing, and easier maintenance than hardwood floors. But which one is truly better?
The answer depends on your needs — especially considering Toronto’s changing seasons, condo regulations, and potential moisture exposure in basements, kitchens, or bathrooms.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between vinyl plank and laminate flooring, covering everything from durability and water resistance to cost and comfort, so you can make an informed decision that fits your space.

Laminate flooring vs Vinyl plank flooring

What Are Vinyl Plank & Laminate Flooring?

Vinyl Plank Flooring (LVP/LVT)

Vinyl plank flooring is a 100% synthetic product, made from multiple layers of PVC and topped with a photographic print layer and a protective wear layer. It’s available in different core types like SPC (stone plastic composite) or WPC (wood plastic composite), and comes in both click and glue-down versions.
It’s popular for:

Kitchens and bathrooms (thanks to its waterproof nature)
Condo floors and basements (due to low thickness and easy installation)
Commercial flooring (for durability and ease of replacement)

Laminate Flooring

Laminate is made from high-density fiberboard (HDF) with a photographic wood layer and a tough wear layer on top. Unlike vinyl, it contains wood materials, which means it is not fully waterproof. However, it often provides better texture and realism compared to lower-end vinyl.
It’s ideal for:

Bedrooms, living rooms, and dry spaces
Homes where budget and visual appeal are priorities
Areas where high scratch resistance is important

Vinyl Flooring vs. Laminate Flooring: Key Comparison Points for Toronto Homes

When choosing between vinyl plank flooring and laminate flooring in Toronto, several practical factors come into play:
Water Resistance
Vinyl plank flooring is fully waterproof, making it an ideal choice for moisture-prone areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is only water-resistant — meaning it can handle minor spills but may swell or warp with prolonged exposure to water.

Durability
Both flooring types are designed for high traffic, but vinyl plank (especially SPC or glue-down commercial-grade vinyl) tends to be more resistant to dents, scratches, and daily wear and tear. Laminate is durable as well but may show scratches more easily and isn't as impact-resistant as vinyl.

Comfort and Feel Underfoot
Laminate floors often feel harder underfoot, though they can mimic the warmth and texture of natural wood more closely. Vinyl plank flooring offers a softer and slightly more cushioned feel, especially with WPC or attached underpad options, which makes it more comfortable to walk on for long periods.

Noise and Acoustics
Without proper underlay, laminate floors can sound hollow or loud when walked on. Vinyl tends to be quieter, especially click vinyl with built-in underlayment or glue-down types that bond directly to the subfloor — a key advantage in Toronto condos where noise transfer is a concern.

Appearance and Style
Laminate flooring often offers a more authentic wood-like appearance with deep textures and embossing. However, luxury vinyl planks have significantly improved in design and now offer highly realistic visuals, including wood, stone, and tile looks.

Installation and Cost
Both are considered DIY-friendly, but vinyl plank flooring comes in more flexible formats: click-lock, glue-down, and loose lay. Laminate is mostly click-lock. In terms of cost, laminate is usually slightly cheaper per square foot, but vinyl’s water resistance and long-term durability can offer better value over time — especially in areas prone to moisture.

Vinyl Plank flooring installed in a basement setting

Which One Fits Best in Toronto Homes & Condos

When choosing between vinyl plank flooring and laminate flooring in a Toronto setting, several local factors matter — climate, housing type (condo vs. house), moisture levels, and lifestyle.

Toronto's Climate Consideration:

Vinyl Plank Flooring: Completely waterproof and resistant to humidity fluctuations. Great for Toronto’s seasonal temperature swings, especially for basement floors and condos where moisture can be a concern.
Laminate Flooring: Performs well in dry, temperature-controlled spaces but may not fare as well in areas prone to moisture or spills, like kitchens or basements.

Condos:

Both vinyl flooring and laminate flooring are good options for condo living, but vinyl flooring would have a bit of an advantage in terms of its nature being waterproof, as condos in Toronto tend to have a lot of water damage cases, which would give vinyl floors a slight advantage over laminate floors.

Homes:

In homes, both materials work well — but vinyl flooring is superior for below-grade installations (like basements).
Laminate floors shine in living rooms and bedrooms where aesthetics and underfoot feel matter more than moisture resistance.

Families & Pets:

Vinyl’s durability to scratches, spills, and noise makes it ideal for homes with kids and pets.
Laminate flooring is scratch-durable too, but less forgiving with spills or pet accidents if not cleaned quickly.

Common Misconceptions & Trade-offs

Even though vinyl plank and laminate flooring are often compared side by side, there are still many misconceptions that mislead Toronto homeowners. Let’s clear up a few:

Misconception 1: Laminate is always cheaper than vinyl.

Reality: While entry-level laminate tends to be more affordable, higher-end laminate can be more expensive than mid-range luxury vinyl plank (LVP).
Trade-off: Laminate may offer a more wood-like texture, but you lose waterproofing and flexibility in where it can be installed.

Misconception 2: All vinyl is the same.

Reality: There are major differences between click vinyl, glue-down vinyl, WPC (wood plastic composite), and SPC (stone plastic composite) vinyl. Durability, comfort, and sound insulation vary widely.
Trade-off: Click vinyl is easier to install but may not last as long in high-traffic commercial settings compared to glue-down options.

Misconception 3: Laminate can’t handle wear and tear.

Reality: Modern AC-rated laminate flooring (AC4 or AC5) is very scratch-durable, especially against pet nails and dragging furniture.
Trade-off: However, it’s still vulnerable to water damage if exposed too long — making it less ideal for bathrooms or kitchens.

Misconception 4: Vinyl feels cheap underfoot.

Reality: Today’s vinyl plank flooring includes options with thicker cores, attached underpads, and textured finishes, offering a surprisingly comfortable and natural feel.
Trade-off: These premium features come at a higher price point, which can narrow the cost gap with laminate.

Vinyl Plank flooring installed in a commercial space in Toronto office

Recommendations by Use-Case

Choosing between vinyl plank and laminate flooring often comes down to where and how you plan to use the flooring. Below are our expert recommendations based on different scenarios commonly found in Toronto homes and condos:

Condo Living (Downtown or High-Rise Units)
Recommended: Both Laminate Floor and Click Vinyl Plank Flooring

Why: Both floors work perfectly fine for condos, though vinyl plank flooring have a slight edge over laminate floors due to its water proof nature.
Bonus: Easy to install and ideal for condo boards that restrict glue-down methods.

Bathrooms & Laundry Rooms
Recommended: Glue-Down or Click Vinyl Plank Flooring

Why: These areas demand 100% waterproof flooring. Vinyl (especially glue-down types) offers superior moisture resistance compared to laminate.
Avoid: Laminate, as even water-resistant models are prone to swelling with prolonged exposure to moisture.

Family Rooms & Bedrooms
Recommended:Laminate Flooring (AC4/AC5-rated)

Why: Laminate floor offers a warmer, more natural wood feel and is very scratch-resistant — great for kids and pets.
Note: If your home is prone to spills, vinyl floor might be safer, but laminate flooring offers better comfort and texture underfoot.

Basements & Lower Levels
Recommended: Glue-Down or Click Vinyl Plank Flooring

Why: Basements in Toronto can be humid or even slightly damp. Vinyl handles moisture far better than laminate and won’t expand or contract.
Tip: For uneven subfloors, glue-down vinyl plank flooring option is highly reccomended.

Rental Units or Investment Properties
Recommended: Vinyl Plank Flooring (Click or Glue-Down)

Why: Durable, waterproof, and easy to maintain — reducing tenant-related flooring issues. Vinyl is also, glue-down vinyl plank flooring is easier to repair or replace in damaged sections.
Consider: Glue-down for commercial or multi-unit rental buildings; click is a good option for small units or temporarily rentals.

Water Resistant laminate flooring option in toronto

FAQs – Vinyl Plank vs. Laminate Flooring in Toronto

Is vinyl plank flooring more durable than laminate flooring?
Yes, especially when it comes to moisture resistance and wear in high-traffic areas. Vinyl plank is waterproof, while laminate can swell if exposed to water.

Which is more affordable: vinyl or laminate?
Laminate flooring is generally more affordable per square foot, especially for mid-range options. However, vinyl's longer lifespan and lower maintenance may offer better long-term value.

Does vinyl floor or laminate floor look more like real wood?
Laminate typically has a more realistic wood texture and appearance, especially in premium styles. Vinyl has improved, but still often has a slightly more synthetic look, depending on the brand.

Can I install vinyl or laminate flooring in a condo?
Yes, but always check with your condo board. Click vinyl is often preferred due to its waterproof nature.

Which is easier to install: laminate or vinyl plank?
Click versions of both are DIY-friendly. Vinyl is slightly more forgiving for uneven subfloors, while laminate offers tighter locking mechanisms.

Which flooring is quieter underfoot?
Both lamiante floors and vinyl planks floors have similar undefoot quietness, specially when a proper underlayment is used (or attached already by manufacturer).

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What Are the Disadvantages of Vinyl Plank Flooring?

9/4/2025

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Vinyl plank flooring has become one of the most popular choices in Toronto homes and condos, thanks to its affordability, water resistance, and realistic wood-like appearance. But while this flooring type offers several advantages, it’s not without its downsides.
If you're considering vinyl plank flooring for your space, it's important to understand not just what it does well—but also where it falls short. In this article, we’ll explore the most common disadvantages of vinyl plank flooring so you can make an informed decision before your next installation.

Modern Toronto condo with luxury vinyl plank flooring in the living room

Limited Lifespan Compared to Hardwood or Tile

While vinyl plank flooring can last 10–20 years with proper care, it doesn't match the durability or longevity of natural materials like solid hardwood floor or ceramic tile. Over time, wear and tear such as surface scratches, dents, and fading can develop—especially in high-traffic areas or under heavy furniture.
For homeowners in Toronto planning long-term investments in their properties, this may be a disadvantage. Vinyl flooring is often seen as a mid-range solution—not something intended to last a lifetime like hardwood flooring might.

Vinyl Flooring Repairs Are Not Easy

Unlike hardwood, which can be sanded and refinished multiple times, vinyl plank flooring is not designed for refinishing. If a section gets damaged—whether from deep scratches, heat, or water intrusion—it typically needs to be replaced entirely.
In glue-down vinyl flooring, replacing a single plank can be particularly labor-intensive. Even in click-lock systems, in order to repair damaged vinyl plank flooring sections properly and replace them, a 100% perfect match of exact same material is needed, which in a lot of cases, specially after many years, it is not always available. In that case, a full floor replacement is needed, which can be costly.
This lack of repair flexibility makes vinyl plank flooring less forgiving in busy households or commercial settings where damage may be more likely.

Close-up of vinyl plank flooring in a high-traffic Toronto hallway

Can Be Susceptible to Subfloor Imperfections

Vinyl plank flooring—especially the click lock systems - requires a smooth, level subfloor for proper installation. Any bumps, dips, or debris under the planks can telegraph through the flooring surface, creating visible imperfections over time, and may break the click system.
In older Toronto condos and homes, where subfloors may be uneven or damaged, extra preparation is often needed. This can increase both the time and cost of installation. Without proper prep, the flooring may wear unevenly, feel unstable underfoot, or even lead to premature failure.

Can Be Prone to Discoloration

Over time, vinyl plank flooring can discolor due to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or certain household chemicals. UV rays can cause fading or yellowing, particularly in rooms with large windows and no UV protection.
Rubber materials—like mats or furniture feet—can also react with the vinyl surface, leaving permanent stains or dark spots. This is especially important in commercial spaces or condo units with rubber-backed area rugs, which can accelerate discoloration.
To reduce the risk, it’s recommended to use window coverings, non-rubber mats, and proper cleaners approved for vinyl flooring.

Is Vinyl Plank Flooring Still Worth It in Toronto?

Despite its drawbacks, vinyl plank flooring remains one of the most popular choices for Toronto homes and condos—especially in high-moisture areas like basements, kitchens, and rental units. The affordability, durability, and wide design range often outweigh the concerns for many property owners.
However, being aware of its limitations—like susceptibility to fading, lack of recyclability, and challenges with repairs—is crucial for setting the right expectations.
If you’re looking for long-lasting, water-resistant, and low-maintenance flooring, vinyl plank is a solid contender. Just be sure to:

Choose high-quality planks (ideally ≥7mm thick)
Consider glue-down installations for commercial or high-traffic use

For expert guidance and flooring installation in Toronto, reach out to us at Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring—we’ll help you select the right flooring solution for your space.

a Toronto condo with vinyl plank flooring

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vinyl plank flooring a good choice for Toronto homes?
Yes, it’s a popular choice due to its water resistance and affordability. However, it’s important to weigh the drawbacks—like difficulty in repairs — before choosing it over hardwood or laminate floors.

Does vinyl plank flooring lower home value?
Not necessarily. While it's not as prestigious as solid hardwood floors or engineered hardwood floors, quality vinyl planks can still appeal to buyers—especially in condos, rentals, and basement spaces.

Can vinyl plank flooring be repaired if damaged?
It depends on the type. Glue-down planks are easier to replace individually, while click-lock planks often require partial disassembly. Either way, repairs are more complex than with traditional hardwood floors.

How long does vinyl plank flooring last in a Toronto climate?
High-quality vinyl flooring can last 15–25 years, especially when professionally installed and maintained. However, direct sunlight, moisture buildup, and heavy furniture can shorten its lifespan.

Can vinyl planks handle Toronto winters and indoor heating?
They perform well indoors, but avoid installations in unheated spaces like enclosed porches or sunrooms. Sudden temperature swings can cause expansion and contraction.

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How Much Does It Cost to Install Vinyl Plank Flooring in Toronto?

8/29/2025

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Vinyl plank flooring has become one of Toronto’s most popular flooring solutions—for good reason. It’s affordable, waterproof, stylish, and built to withstand the daily wear and tear of both homes and businesses. But how much does it actually cost to install vinyl plank flooring in Toronto?
The answer depends on several factors—such as the type of vinyl you choose (click-lock vs. glue-down), the condition of your subfloor, whether you're replacing old flooring, and more. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about vinyl plank flooring installation costs in Toronto. From material and labour pricing to examples based on real-world square footage, you’ll leave with a clear picture of what to expect—and how to budget.
Whether you’re upgrading a downtown condo, outfitting a commercial office, or finishing a basement, this guide will help you make an informed decision for your flooring investment.

Click luxury vinyl plank flooring installed in a modern Toronto condo unit

Average Cost to Install Vinyl Plank Flooring in Toronto

For most Toronto-area properties, the cost to install vinyl plank flooring falls between $4.50 – $8 per square foot for basic material and installation. This range varies depending on the complexity of the space, quality of the materials, and whether you're opting for glue-down vinyl or click-lock planks. Glue-down installations tend to cost slightly more for labour and material but provide better long-term performance—especially in high-traffic or commercial areas.

Here’s a quick cost breakdown:

Installation Type	Estimated Cost, Per SQFT
Click Vinyl Plank Flooring Installation, Material Included	$4.50 - $6.50
Glue Down Vinyl Plank Flooring Installation, Material Included	$6.00 - $8.00
Additional Costs Such As Flooring Removal, Subfloor Preparation, Baseboards	$1.00 - $8.00

Cost Breakdown: What You’re Paying For

Vinyl plank flooring costs aren’t just about the planks themselves. There are several components that make up your final installation quote—some obvious, others less so. Let’s break it all down.

Vinyl Plank Material Costs

The cost of the vinyl plank itself can vary significantly depending on the quality, thickness, wear layer, and type (click-lock vs glue-down).

Click Vinyl Flooring: $2.69 – $4.99 per sq. ft.
Glue Down Vinyl Flooring: $3.50 – $4.99 per sq. ft.

Factors that influence material pricing:

Wear Layer (measured in mils): 12–20 mil for residential, 20+ mil for commercial.
Thickness: Thicker vinyl plank floors tend to cost more, for example 8.5mm vinyl plank floor will cost more than 5mm vinyl plank floors
Visuals: Premium planks mimic hardwood and stone with greater realism.

💡 Pro Tip: For commercial or rental properties, durability matters more than design. Choose 20+ mil wear layer for better longevity

Installation Labour Costs in Toronto

Labour typically accounts for $1.50 – $3.50 per square foot, depending on installation type and site conditions.

Click Vinyl Flooring Installation: $1.50 – $2.50 per sq. ft.
Glue Down Vinyl Flooring Installation: $2.50 – $3.50 per sq. ft.

Why glue-down costs more:

Requires precise adhesive application
Takes longer per room
Demands a level and clean subfloor
Typically used for commercial-grade installs

Subfloor Preparation & Additional Costs

Many homeowners forget about the hidden costs associated with preparing the subfloor. These extras can add anywhere from $1 to $8 per square foot, especially if your current flooring needs to be removed or the subfloor needs levelling.
Additional cost factors:

Removal of old flooring (laminate, tile, carpet): $0.50 – $2.00/sq. ft.
Subfloor leveling or patching: Starts at $250+
Underlayment (if required): $0.50 – $1.75/sq. ft.
Baseboard/quarter round replacement: $2.00 - $4.50/linear feet (materials included)

While these extras increase the upfront cost, they’re critical to ensuring your vinyl plank flooring performs well and lasts for years to come—especially in Toronto’s fluctuating climate.

Glue-down luxury vinyl plank flooring installed in Toronto Office

Example Project: How Much Does 1000 Sq. Ft. of Vinyl Plank Flooring Cost in Toronto?

To help you visualize what a real vinyl plank flooring installation might cost, let’s look at a sample project based on a 1000 square foot office, condo, house, or commercial unit in Toronto.
This example includes:

Mid-range glue-down luxury vinyl planks
Professional installation
removal of old flooring

Vinyl Plank Flooring Cost Breakdown For 1,000 Square Feet

Cost Component	Estimated Range
Vinyl Plank Flooring Material For Glue Down	$2,500 - $4,900
Vinyl Plank Flooring Installation, Glue Down	$2,500 - $3,500
Flooring Removal, Carpet	$500 - $1,000
Total Estimated Cost For 1,000 Square Feet	$5,500 - $8,900 (HST Not Included)

⚠️ Things That Could Increase Cost:

Heavily damaged or uneven subfloors
Complex layouts with angled cuts or transitions
Adding underlayment, baseboards, or quarter rounds
Furnitures

🧠 Things That Could Lower Cost:

Large, open rooms (fewer cuts or transitions)
No old flooring to remove
Flat, clean subfloor that requires minimal prep
No Furnitures

This range helps you plan realistically. Most Toronto-area installations for 1,000 sq. ft. will land somewhere between $5,500 - $8,900 (before tax), depending on materials and conditions.

Factors That Affect Vinyl Plank Flooring Costs

Every flooring project is unique, and so is the final cost. Here's a breakdown of the main factors that influence how much you'll pay to install vinyl plank flooring in Toronto:

✅ 1. Installation Method: Click-Lock vs. Glue-Down

Click-Lock: Faster and easier to install, often cheaper for labour. However, may not be ideal for high-traffic commercial spaces or large open areas.
Glue-Down: More stable and long-lasting, especially for commercial installs. Requires professional prep and adhesive work, which adds to labour cost.

💡 Our recommendation: Glue-down is worth the extra investment for large spaces, offices, and any area with rolling chairs or carts.

✅ 2. Subfloor Condition

A clean, level subfloor keeps labour costs down.
If your subfloor is uneven, damaged, or covered in old adhesive or underlayment, prep costs can rise quickly.

✅ 3. Type & Quality of Vinyl Plank

Thicker planks are more durable and costly.
Designer finishes or embossed textures can also increase material pricing.

✅ 4. Room Size & Layout

Large open spaces are easier and faster to install, reducing labour costs per sq. ft.
Small rooms, narrow hallways, and angled layouts require more cutting and planning—adding time and cost.

✅ 5. Old Floor Removal

If you’re replacing old laminate, tile, or carpet, this adds to the cost.
Some older adhesives may require special removal or surface grinding before new flooring can be installed.

✅ 6. Residential vs. Commercial Application

Commercial installations often require higher-grade vinyl and adhesive, especially in high-traffic or public spaces.
Many commercial installs are glue-down, which increases labour and prep cost—but adds durability.

Vinyl Plank Flooring - Is It Worth It? Cost vs. Long-Term Value

Vinyl plank flooring isn’t just about affordability—it's also about smart long-term value. Here's why the upfront cost often pays off for Toronto homeowners and business owners alike:

💪 Durability That Holds Up

Quality vinyl planks can last 10–20 years with proper installation and care.
Waterproof, scratch-resistant, and ideal for busy households, clinics, retail shops, and office settings.

💧 Waterproof Performance

One of the biggest advantages over laminate or hardwood: vinyl plank flooring is 100% waterproof.
Perfect for:
- Toronto basements prone to moisture
- Entryways during slushy winters
- Kitchens and bathrooms

🧽 Low Maintenance

Easy to clean: regular sweeping and occasional mopping is all you need.
No waxing, sanding, or refinishing required—unlike hardwood.
Individual planks can be replaced if damaged (especially with glue-down installations).

🏠 Aesthetic Appeal Without the High Price

Vinyl plank mimics hardwood, tile, or stone at a fraction of the cost.
Available in wide planks, matte finishes, and realistic grain patterns.
Modern LVP flooring often fools even flooring professionals on first glance.

💰 Return on Investment

Vinyl plank is one of the most cost-effective flooring upgrades in terms of value-per-dollar.
Improves the look and feel of a property while being budget-conscious.
Ideal for rental properties, investment units, or cost-aware commercial renovations.

In short: while it’s more affordable than hardwood, vinyl plank doesn’t feel like a “cheap” floor—and that’s why it continues to dominate the Toronto flooring market.

Waterproof vinyl plank flooring installed in a Toronto condo

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How much does it cost to install vinyl plank flooring in Toronto per square foot?
A: On average, expect to pay $1.50 - $3.50 per sq. ft. for basic installations, and $2.69 - $4.99 per sq. ft. for supply of vinyl plank flooring and its installation. Extra costs may occure such as old flooring removal, baseboard replacements, etc.

Q: Is glue-down vinyl flooring more expensive than click-lock?
A: Yes both in material cost and labour cost due to the adhesive process and subfloor prep. However, it’s more stable and better for large or commercial spaces—so it offers more long-term value.

Q: Can vinyl plank flooring be installed over existing flooring?
A: Sometimes, yes—if the existing surface is smooth, level, and free of moisture issues. However, for glue-down vinyl, it’s typically best to remove old flooring to ensure proper adhesion and longevity. In general, we always reccomend to remove the old floor

Q: How long does vinyl plank flooring last?
A: With proper installation and care, vinyl plank flooring can last 10–20 years or more.

Q: Is vinyl plank flooring good for basements or condos in Toronto?
A: Absolutely. Vinyl plank is 100% waterproof and handles seasonal humidity shifts very well, making it ideal for basements, condos, and older Toronto homes with unpredictable climate control.

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