Written by Tel Weibel
Published 2026-02-01 · Updated 2026-08-06
"Should I go with vinyl plank or laminate?" — it's the question we hear most from Vancouver homeowners. Both look great, both are affordable compared to hardwood, and both come in a huge range of styles. But for our climate, there's a clear winner in most situations.
Here's the honest comparison from contractors who install both every week.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Vinyl Plank (LVP) | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof | Yes — 100% | No (some are water-resistant) |
| Durability | Excellent — handles drops and scratches well | Good — but can chip at edges |
| Feel Underfoot | Softer, warmer | Harder, can sound hollow |
| Look/Realism | Very realistic wood/stone looks | Very realistic wood looks |
| Cost (installed) | $7 – $12/sq ft | $5 – $9/sq ft |
| Lifespan | 20 – 30 years | 15 – 25 years |
| Best Rooms | Anywhere — including kitchens & basements | Bedrooms, offices, dry areas |
| Vancouver Climate? | Ideal | Suitable with precautions |
Vinyl Plank: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 100% waterproof — the biggest advantage for Vancouver homes
- Softer and quieter underfoot than laminate
- Won't swell, warp, or buckle from moisture
- Works in every room, including basements, kitchens, and bathrooms
- Easy to maintain — sweep and damp mop is all you need
- Many products come with attached underlayment
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than laminate
- Can dent under heavy furniture without proper protection pads
- Not as eco-friendly as some wood-based options
Laminate: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- More affordable — typically $2-3 less per square foot installed
- Incredibly realistic wood grain patterns
- Very hard surface resists scratches well
- Quick and easy installation (click-lock)
- Good for low-moisture rooms
Cons:
- Not waterproof — water in seams causes swelling and warping
- Can sound hollow when walked on (quality underlay helps)
- Edges can chip if hit or if moisture gets in
- Cannot be refinished — damage means replacement
- Not recommended for basements, kitchens, or bathrooms in Vancouver
Which is Better for Vancouver's Climate?
For most Vancouver homes, vinyl plank is the better choice. Our climate is wet, and moisture is the number one enemy of laminate flooring. Even in rooms that don't get direct water exposure, Vancouver's humidity fluctuations can cause laminate to expand and contract more than you'd expect.
That said, laminate is a perfectly good choice for bedrooms, home offices, and upper floors where moisture isn't a concern. If budget is tight and you're flooring a dry area, laminate gives you a beautiful look for less money.
Our Expert Recommendation
Here's what we typically suggest to our Vancouver clients:
- Main floor, kitchen, entryway: Vinyl plank (moisture protection is essential)
- Basement: Vinyl plank (no question — basements and laminate don't mix in Vancouver)
- Bedrooms and upper floors: Either works — choose based on your budget and preference
- Bathrooms and laundry: Vinyl plank or tile only
The best way to decide is to see and feel both products in person. Visit our showroom in Port Coquitlam or book a free in-home consultation where we bring samples to your home and help you compare side by side.
Call (604) 929-8311 or explore our flooring services to learn more.