At a Glance:
Hard surface flooring throughout entire homes is becoming more and more common in new builds and remodels across the country. Two of the most popular hard surface options are hardwood and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Let’s break down the difference between these two different types of flooring.
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Hardwood is timeless. People have been putting hardwood on their floors since the mid-1600s. Of course, the manufacturing of the product has changed a bit since then, so here are a few things to watch out for:
Engineered vs. Solid: Hardwood is sold in two different lines. The first and most popular line across the country is solid hardwood. Solid hardwood keeps the same log through and through. The stain is applied to the individual milled planks. On top of that stain, a finishing coat is applied that protects the wood from moisture, oil, dirt, and other grime. The other line that is more popular in desert climates is engineered hardwood. Engineered hardwood consists of layers and layers of thinly milled wood pressed and glued together that allow the plank to expand without cracking or checking.
Hardwood is difficult to manufacture. Not only is it a time-consuming process as the stain is baked into the wood, but the trees, of course, have to grow! But hardwood is incredibly durable. If properly taken care of, hardwood can last a lifetime. It’s very scratch resistant, more so than LVP, and repels water much better than it’s given credit for. In fact, if properly constructed, the only thing that will severely damage hardwood is a flood. But because it takes a while to produce and because it’s incredibly tough, hardwood is usually more expensive.
We recommend gluing engineered hardwood to any subfloor to achieve peak performance. Solid hardwood (and bamboo wood as well) fails to hold up in dry climates unless a home's air conditioning unit has a humidifier as an attachment.
→ Learn more: Flooring: When Will It Arrive?
Pros & Cons of Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring is a timeless choice for homeowners looking to enhance their living space with natural beauty and durability. But like any flooring option, it comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of hardwood floors to help you decide if they’re the right fit for your home.
Pros:
✅ Aesthetic Appeal: Hardwood floors bring a warm, elegant look that can elevate any room.
✅ Durability: With proper care, hardwood floors can last decades, even centuries.
✅ Easy to Clean: Sweeping and occasional mopping keep them looking their best.
✅ Increases Home Value: Hardwood flooring is a desirable feature that can boost resale value.
✅ Versatility: They complement a wide range of styles, from modern to rustic.
Cons:
❌ Cost: Hardwood floors can be expensive to purchase and install.
❌ Moisture Sensitivity: They may warp or crack in high humidity or if exposed to water.
❌ Scratches and Dents: While durable, they can show wear over time, especially in high-traffic areas.
❌ Maintenance Needs: Periodic refinishing may be necessary to keep them looking pristine.
Hardwood flooring offers beauty and longevity but requires an investment in both cost and maintenance. If you value elegance and durability, hardwood could be a fantastic choice for your home.
About Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury vinyl plank has taken the world by storm and is showing no signs of slowing down. It is relatively easy to manufacture, simple to repair, and it’s very durable. However, unlike hardwood, it won’t last forever, even if it’s properly taken care of.
But there are plenty of advantages. For one, LVP is waterproof! Whether it's a bucket of water or a flood, your LVP will survive any type of moisture you toss at it. Another advantage to LVP is the individual planks can be replaced even in the middle of the floor. So if one gets scratched, you can pop it out and replace it (the process sounds easy, but it’s more like floor surgery, take a peek at how to do it here. The overall lifespan for LVP is projected to be about 15 to 20 years. At the end of its lifespan, the planks will start to pull apart or even delaminate and peel like a bad sunburn. L
VP can be laid over any subfloor. Like hardwood, the subfloor needs to be properly prepped and laid relatively flat, but unlike hardwood, LVP requires no glue, no nails, and already has the underlayment attached. It’s also incredibly simple to produce. Because of this, LVP is much cheaper than hardwood.
Pros & Cons of Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners seeking style, durability, and value. Here’s a quick rundown of its pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your space.
Pros:
✅ Durability: LVP is highly resistant to scratches, dents, and wear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with pets and kids.
✅ Waterproof: Unlike hardwood, LVP can withstand spills and moisture, making it a great option for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
✅ Affordability: It offers the look of hardwood or stone at a fraction of the cost.
✅ Easy Installation: With click-and-lock or peel-and-stick options, it’s perfect for DIY enthusiasts.
✅ Low Maintenance: Cleaning is a breeze – just sweep and occasionally mop to keep it looking fresh.
Cons:
❌ Not Real Wood: While it mimics hardwood, it doesn’t have the same warmth or authenticity.
❌ Difficult Repairs: Replacing damaged planks can be challenging, as you may need to remove surrounding pieces.
❌ Chemical Sensitivity: Some people are sensitive to the materials used in vinyl flooring, which may emit VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring balances style and practicality, making it a versatile choice. If its benefits align with your lifestyle, it could be a fantastic flooring solution for your home!
What Should You Choose?
Hardwood: A lot of folks are afraid of hardwood because when it scratches it’s difficult to repair and is subject to water damage. In addition, hardwood requires specialty cleaners. But if you’re more interested in durability, hardwood is the way to go. Hardwood can be laid without any transition pieces. Hardwood planks are unique in their staining and graining. It is a little more expensive, but the durability and long life span are well worth it!
LVP: LVP is so easy to take care of. It can be cleaned with any combination of soap and water. If one piece is damaged, it can be replaced quickly. If you’re not interested in the upkeep of hardwood, LVP is your choice. Plus, LVP costs less. LVP isn’t as unique as wood planks, as its planks have repeating patterns every 6-12 planks.
Choosing between hardwood flooring vs LVP can feel tricky, but it ultimately comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and personal style. Here’s how to decide which is best for your home.
- Consider Your Lifestyle: If you have a busy household with kids or pets, LVP might be the winner. It’s scratch-resistant, waterproof, and low maintenance, perfect for high-traffic areas. Hardwood, while durable, is more prone to dents and scratches, so it may require more care in active homes.
- Think About Moisture Levels: For areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or basements, LVP’s waterproof properties make it a practical choice. Hardwood doesn’t handle moisture well and could warp or stain if exposed to water over time.
- Budget Matters: If you’re working with a tighter budget, LVP is a more affordable option. It mimics the look of hardwood without the hefty price tag. However, if you can invest, hardwood brings timeless elegance and can increase your home’s value.
- Longevity and Aesthetics: Hardwood can last for decades with refinishing, offering authentic warmth and beauty. LVP has improved dramatically in appearance but may not have the same natural charm.
By weighing your priorities, you’ll land on the flooring that fits both your needs and style perfectly!
→ Learn more: How to Properly Care for All Your Flooring
Whatever your style and budget, your BlvdHome sales professional can help you identify the best product for your household and lifestyle!
FAQ
Which is better hardwood or luxury vinyl plank?
Determining whether hardwood or luxury vinyl plank is better depends on various factors such as personal preferences, budget, and specific needs. Hardwood flooring offers a timeless and natural aesthetic, while luxury vinyl plank provides versatility, durability, and easy maintenance.
What are the disadvantages of luxury vinyl plank?
Some disadvantages of luxury vinyl plank include the potential for fading or discoloration in direct sunlight, vulnerability to sharp objects that can cause scratches or gouges, and the possibility of off-gassing due to the materials used in manufacturing. Additionally, while luxury vinyl plank can mimic the appearance of natural materials, it may not offer the same level of authenticity as genuine hardwood.
Does luxury vinyl plank devalue a home?
The impact of luxury vinyl plank on home value can be subjective and depends on various factors such as the overall quality of installation, the specific market, and buyer preferences. While luxury vinyl plank has gained popularity due to its durability and affordability, some buyers may still prefer the natural beauty and perceived higher value of hardwood flooring. It is recommended to consider the preferences and expectations of potential buyers in your local housing market before making a decision.
Should you replace hardwood with luxury vinyl?
If the hardwood is in poor condition, damaged, or no longer suits your needs, luxury vinyl plank can be a cost-effective and practical alternative. However, if the hardwood is in good condition and contributes to the overall appeal and value of your home, it may be more advisable to preserve or refinish the hardwood rather than replacing it with luxury vinyl plank.
Why Trust BlvdHome?
The roots of this family business began as early as the pioneer settlement of Southern Utah. One descendant of those 1861 pioneers was Lester Wittwer. In 1928, he started a trucking business with other family members, delivering homegrown fruits and vegetables to many outlying areas. The story of BlvdHome began in 1974, when Lester's son Tony decided to venture off into the furniture world - with two full-time employees and a small showroom of only 8,000 square feet. Today, BlvdHome has 4 retail locations with over 160,000 sq. ft. of showroom space, located in St. George, Utah, Hurricane, Utah, Cedar City, Utah, Mesquite, Nevada, and a new Las Vegas store coming soon. With over 230 amazing team members, BlvdHome continues to deliver on a commitment to customer service that started over 90 years ago.
Shop Flooring at BlvdHome
At BlvdHome, we provide quality name-brand appliances, furniture, and mattresses for great prices. Shop washers online or visit us today at one of our locations in Utah or Nevada. In the meantime, browse our website to shop BlvdHome Bargain Barn and check out our flooring selections to increase your home value. More available than ever, our experts at BlvdHome are always happy to help you choose between hardwood flooring vs LVP, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Contact us today!
→ Learn more: What Flooring is Best for Your Home?