Laminate vs. Vinyl Flooring Singapore: Which Is Best for Your Home?

Introduction: Navigating Your Flooring Choices in Singapore

Choosing flooring in Singapore is not just about design — it’s about humidity, comfort, durability, and long-term value.

Two of the most commonly compared options are laminate flooring and vinyl flooring. Both offer wood-like aesthetics at a more affordable price than parquet or marble, but they perform very differently in Singapore’s tropical climate.

This guide breaks down laminate vs. vinyl flooring in Singapore, using real-world considerations such as moisture resistance, maintenance, cost, and suitability for HDBs, condos, and landed homes.

The Common Dilemma for Singapore Homeowners

Many homeowners ask:

• Which flooring handles Singapore’s humidity better?

• Which is more durable for kids and pets?

• Which flooring is more cost-effective long term?

• Is laminate really cheaper, or does vinyl last longer?

If you’re renovating an HDB, condo, or resale flat, this comparison will help you decide confidently.

What This Guide Will Cover

• What laminate and vinyl flooring are made of

• Key differences that matter in Singapore

• Costs, durability, and maintenance comparison

• HDB and condo considerations

• When laminate makes sense

• When vinyl is the better choice

Understanding the Contenders: What Are Laminate and Vinyl Flooring?

Laminate Flooring: The Affordability and Style Champion

Laminate flooring is made from compressed wood fibres (HDF) topped with a photographic layer and a hard protective coating.

Key characteristics:

• Realistic wood and stone designs

• Hard surface with good scratch resistance

• Click-lock installation

• Budget-friendly upfront cost

Laminate is popular for bedrooms and living rooms in dry environments.

Vinyl Flooring: The Versatile and Durable Innovator

Vinyl flooring is made from synthetic materials (PVC) and comes in planks or tiles with multiple layers, including a wear layer and waterproof core.

Key characteristics:

• Fully waterproof

• Softer and quieter underfoot

• Highly resistant to humidity

• Available in SPC, WPC, and LVT formats

Vinyl has become one of the most popular flooring choices in modern Singapore homes.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Key Factors for Singapore Homes

Water Resistance & Humidity Performance

This is the biggest difference.

• Vinyl flooring: 100% waterproof, unaffected by spills, humidity, or leaks

• Laminate flooring: Water-resistant at best, but can swell or warp if moisture penetrates

Winner: Vinyl flooring
For Singapore’s climate, waterproofing matters more than most homeowners expect.

Durability & Scratch Resistance

• Laminate has a harder surface, making it more scratch-resistant

• Vinyl is slightly softer but has strong wear layers in higher-quality products

For normal household use:

• Laminate resists scratches better

• Vinyl resists moisture damage better

Winner: Tie (depends on household lifestyle)

Aesthetics, Styles, and Design Options

Both flooring types offer:

• Wood-grain designs

• Stone and concrete looks

• Modern colour options

Laminate often looks slightly more realistic up close, while vinyl has improved significantly with modern printing technology.

Winner: Tie

Comfort and Sound Insulation

• Vinyl is softer, warmer, and quieter

• Laminate can feel harder and sound hollow without underlay

For families with kids or elderly:

• Vinyl is more forgiving underfoot

Winner: Vinyl flooring

Installation Process and Subfloor Requirements

Both use click-lock systems, but:

• Vinyl tolerates minor unevenness better

• Laminate requires a flatter, drier subfloor

In resale homes with imperfect floors, vinyl is easier to install properly.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Vinyl: Sweep and mop freely

• Laminate: Avoid excessive water when mopping

Mistakes in cleaning laminate can shorten its lifespan.

Winner: Vinyl flooring

Cost Considerations: Initial vs. Long-Term Value

Average flooring cost in Singapore (installed):

• Vinyl flooring: $5 – $8 per sq ft

• Laminate flooring: $6 – $11 per sq ft

Laminate may look cheaper upfront, but vinyl often lasts longer in humid conditions.

Winner: Vinyl for long-term value

Environmental Impact and Health Considerations

• Laminate uses wood by-products

• Vinyl is synthetic and may emit VOCs (low-VOC products recommended)

Choose reputable brands with proper certifications.

Deep Dive into Vinyl Flooring Types for Singapore Homes

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) & Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

• Flexible

• Comfortable

• Ideal for bedrooms and living areas

Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) Flooring

• Rigid core

• Highly stable

• Popular in HDBs and condos

Best balance of durability and affordability.

Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) Flooring

• Thicker and softer

• Better sound absorption

• Slightly higher cost

Addressing Singapore-Specific Challenges & Regulations

HDB Regulations and Flooring Choices

• Wet areas require waterproof flooring

• Heavy tiles may need approval

• Vinyl is often preferred for HDB upgrades

Condo and Landed Property Considerations

• Noise control is important

• Vinyl reduces sound transmission better than laminate

Managing Singapore’s High Humidity

Humidity is the silent flooring killer. Vinyl handles it far better than laminate.

Slip Resistance and Safety

Vinyl flooring options often come with slip-resistant finishes, making them safer for families.

When to Choose Laminate Flooring in Singapore

Laminate makes sense if:

• Your home is dry and well-ventilated

• Budget is tight

• You prioritise scratch resistance

• Flooring is mainly for bedrooms or study rooms

When to Choose Vinyl Flooring in Singapore

Vinyl is ideal if:

• You want waterproof flooring

• You have kids or pets

• Your home experiences humidity

• You want low maintenance

• You’re renovating an HDB or resale flat

The Installation Process in Singapore: What to Expect

DIY vs. Professional Installation

DIY is possible, but professional installation ensures:

• Proper floor levelling

• Correct expansion gaps

• Longer lifespan

Preparing Your Site

Good subfloor preparation prevents:

• Hollow sounds

• Uneven planks

• Premature wear

Choosing a Local Flooring Team

Look for:

• Singapore-based installers

• Transparent pricing

• Proper warranties

Making Your Final Decision: A Checklist

Ask yourself:

• Do I need waterproofing?

• Is comfort important?

• What’s my long-term plan?

• Which rooms need flooring?

• What’s my renovation budget?

Conclusion: The Best Floor Is the Right Floor for You

There is no universal “best” flooring — only the best flooring for your lifestyle and environment.

For most Singapore homes, vinyl flooring offers better performance in humidity, easier maintenance, and stronger long-term value. Laminate still has its place in dry, low-traffic spaces.

Choose based on how you live, not just how it looks.