But unlike laminate floors, vinyl planks and tiles are constructed of cores with varied composite materials and levels of pliability that can overcome subfloor imperfections. You should also keep in mind that vinyl plank and tile flooring might not increase the value of your home as much as laminate flooring.
Wood (especially modern looking and wide plank) and ceramic tile net the best return on investment. Ceramic over porcelain because buyers often don't know or care about the difference and ceramic is much cheaper in material cost. Multiple flooring materials throughout the house is also better for resale...
Vinyl is more durable than laminate flooring.
It's even used in commercial settings, where durability and maintenance are top priorities.
Impact on property value
Real estate experts note that updated, modernized flooring can significantly increase the perceived value of a property. Additionally, the durability and aesthetic appeal of luxury vinyl make it an attractive selling point that could sway potential buyers.
Does Laminate Flooring Increase Home Value? To go easy on the budget, laminate flooring is another option. It may have a lower resale value than solid or engineered wood, but high-quality laminate flooring can bring a higher resale value than cheaper vinyl flooring or leaving bad flooring in place.
You should also keep in mind that vinyl plank and tile flooring might not increase the value of your home as much as laminate flooring. However, vinyl flooring can still make all the difference in how long your floors will last, which could be vital as we head into a more competitive real estate market.
While marble, natural stone, bamboo, ceramic tile and luxury vinyl have been trending in recent years, hardwood is still the dominant choice of flooring for high-end homes.
The disadvantages of vinyl floors
Cannot be repaired. Can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) Shorter lifespan than wood floors.
Not moisture-proof
Being made of wood, laminate flooring is not impervious to the effects of moisture. Therefore, it's not suitable as a hard flooring for bathrooms and should be used with caution in kitchens or laundries. Light surface water for cleaning shouldn't cause issues, but saturation must be avoided.
However, vinyl flooring often takes the lead in environments prone to moisture or heavy foot traffic, thanks to its water-resistant and sometimes fully waterproof nature. Laminate flooring, while durable and scratch-resistant, is better suited for areas with less exposure to moisture.
You should sweep and mop them regularly. Use a specialty mop to clean them without excess liquid. Though laminate floors are water resistant, if they are soaked in water, they can be damaged. The best way to clean laminate floors is to use products especially made for them.
Top 6 Most Popular Flooring in New Homes 2025. The most popular flooring in new homes is wood floors, including prefinished hardwood, unfinished hardwood, and engineered wood followed by laminate, luxury vinyl tiles, and luxury vinyl planks.
Carpet suits bedrooms better, and tile floors work best with kitchen and bathrooms. The main way that flooring affects your home appraisal in this way is by means of consistency. Contrasting floor colors and textures butted up against each other can detract from your home's overall style, and thus it's value.
Conclusion: What Flooring is Best Value for Money
For the best balance of affordability, durability, and looks, consider luxury vinyl plank (LVP).
Age could bring down a home's value, especially if the home needs work. Buying a fixer-upper can translate to all kinds of additional costs. There are cosmetic concerns such as an outdated kitchen or a less-than-modern floor plan, and then there are functional issues like problems with the home's roof or plumbing.
Does vinyl flooring devalue a home? It's possible. While vinyl plank floors are affordable and versatile, they might not boost your home's resale value like hardwood or tile would.
"I have a rule: You should never see more than two types of flooring from any one place in your home," Jonathan says. In this case, they opted to install luxury vinyl flooring across the main living areas for a cohesive and consistent look.
As for interior renovations, minor bathroom and kitchen remodeling projects yield the highest ROI. These improvements are less disruptive than major renovations to the same areas and more affordable, offering substantial returns.
The most overvalued markets to purchase a home tend to be located in high-priced vacation home markets in Hawaii, in both coastal and inland California markets, Seattle and New York City, as well as still-competitive “Zoomtowns,” including Greeley and Fort Collins in Colorado and Boise, Idaho.
Equip your home with ceiling fans throughout the main living areas to capitalize on their value. Adding updated fans with desirable features to bedrooms, living rooms, and family rooms will be a small, but compelling, asset for home buyers.