Waterproof Laminate vs. Luxury Vinyl: Which is Right for You?

One of the most common questions we hear in our Riverdale showroom is: “Is laminate actually waterproof now?” For years, the answer was a firm “no.” If you spilled a glass of water on an old laminate floor and didn’t catch it immediately, you could count on the edges curling and the boards swelling. But it’s 2026, and flooring technology has undergone a massive revolution.

Today, both Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Waterproof Laminate are top-tier contenders for your home. But they aren’t the same. Choosing between them comes down to where you are living and how you are living.

1. Luxury Vinyl (LVP/LVT): The Waterproof King

Luxury Vinyl has earned its reputation as the “worry-free” floor. Unlike laminate, which uses a wood-based core, LVP is made from 100% synthetic materials (often a Stone Plastic Composite, or SPC).

• Best For: Full bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, and mudrooms.

• The “Splash” Factor: It is 100% waterproof. You could theoretically submerge a plank in a bucket of water for a week, dry it off, and click it right back into your floor.

• The Feel: Vinyl is naturally more resilient. This means it is slightly softer underfoot and warmer to the touch than laminate—a big plus for those chilly Utah mornings.

2. Waterproof Laminate: The Durable Powerhouse

If vinyl is the “King of Waterproof,” then modern laminate is the “King of Realism.” 2026-era waterproof laminate uses advanced locking systems and ultra-dense cores to keep moisture out of the joints for 24, 72, or even 100+ hours.

• Best For: Living rooms, kitchens, hallways, and homes with big dogs.

• The “Clink” Factor: Laminate is a denser, harder product. When you walk on it, it has that satisfying “clink” and rigid feel that is nearly indistinguishable from real 3/4″ hardwood.

• Scratch Resistance: This is where laminate shines. Its top wear layer is incredibly hard, making it much more resistant to the “race-car tracks” left by kids’ toys or the sliding claws of a 70-pound Golden Retriever.

3. The Comparison at a Glance

4. A Family Perspective: Daniel’s Recommendation

We asked Daniel Buckway, our Sales Manager, how he helps families decide during a showroom consultation.

“I always ask customers about their ‘chaos level.’ If you have a busy household with three kids, a dog that spills its water bowl, and a basement that sometimes gets a little damp, Luxury Vinyl is your best friend. It gives you total peace of mind.

However, if you’re renovating your main level and you really want that high-end, authentic wood ‘clank’ under your feet—but you’re worried about the dog scratching it up—Waterproof Laminate is the winner. It’s tough as nails and looks beautiful in the natural light we get here in Riverdale.”

Which one should you choose?

The best way to decide is to see and feel them for yourself. At Buckway’s Flooring & Design, we have large-format samples of the latest 2026 collections so you can test the textures and see the colors in person.