Luxury Vinyl Plank Vs Hardwood Flooring| Which Is Better?

This is a comprehensive article on Luxury Vinyl Plank Vs Hardwood Flooring, Find the option that is right for you.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and hardwood flooring are two popular options for homeowners looking to upgrade their floors.

Both types of flooring have their unique features and benefits, making it difficult for homeowners to decide which one to choose.

While hardwood flooring has been a popular choice for many years, LVP has gained popularity in recent years due to its affordability and durability.

LVP is a synthetic flooring material that mimics the look of hardwood flooring. It is made from several layers of materials, including PVC vinyl, a design layer, and a protective layer.

LVP is a popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and low maintenance requirements. It is also water-resistant, making it a great option for areas prone to spills and moisture.

On the other hand, hardwood flooring is a natural flooring material that is made from solid wood. It is a popular choice for homeowners due to its timeless appeal and natural beauty. Hardwood flooring is also known for its durability and longevity, as it can last for decades if properly maintained.

However, hardwood flooring can be expensive and requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.

Nonetheless, Luxury vinyl planks and hardwood flooring are still the two popular flooring options, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we will compare these two flooring types in detail to help you make the best decision for your home.

Quick Points

Key Takeaways

LVP is a synthetic flooring material that mimics the look of hardwood flooring and is a popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and low maintenance requirements.
Hardwood flooring is a natural flooring material that is known for its timeless appeal and natural beauty but can be expensive and requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.
When choosing between LVP and hardwood flooring, homeowners should consider factors such as their budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

Understanding Luxury Vinyl Plank

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a popular flooring option that offers the look and feel of natural wood floors at a more affordable price point. In this section, we will explore the composition and construction of LVP, as well as its styles and aesthetics, durability and maintenance, and cost factors.

1. Composition and Construction

LVP is made up of several layers, including a backing layer, a vinyl core, a design layer, and a wear layer. The backing layer provides stability and helps prevent moisture from seeping through the floor.

The vinyl core is the thickest layer and gives the plank its rigidity and durability. The design layer is where the wood-like visuals are printed onto the plank. The wear layer is a clear protective layer that helps prevent scratches, stains, and other damage.

2. Styles and Aesthetics

LVP comes in a wide variety of styles and aesthetics, with many options that mimic the look and feel of real hardwood floors.

The design layer can be printed with intricate patterns and textures that mimic the unique knots, whorls, and grooves found in natural wood.

LVP can also come in a variety of colors, from light and airy to dark and dramatic, allowing homeowners to choose a style that complements their decor.

3. Durability and Maintenance

LVP is known for its durability and low maintenance requirements. The wear layer helps prevent scratches, stains, and other damage, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas and homes with children and pets.

LVP is also water-resistant, making it a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas that are prone to moisture. Cleaning LVP is easy and requires only a damp mop or cloth.

4. Cost Factors

One of the biggest advantages of LVP over hardwood floors is its affordability. LVP is typically less expensive than hardwood floors, making it a great choice for homeowners on a budget. Additionally, LVP is easy to install, with many options available in a click-and-lock format that can be installed without the need for professional help. This can save homeowners both time and money compared to the cost of installing hardwood floors.

Overall, LVP is a great choice for homeowners who want the look and feel of natural wood floors at a more affordable price point. Its durability, low maintenance requirements, and wide range of styles and aesthetics make it a popular choice for many homeowners.

Exploring Hardwood Flooring

When it comes to choosing a flooring material, hardwood is a popular choice for homeowners due to its natural beauty, durability, and longevity. However, before making a decision, it’s important to explore the different types of hardwood, understand its natural beauty, longevity, and care, and consider price considerations.

1. Types of Hardwood

There are many types of hardwood to choose from, including oak, cherry, maple, and walnut. Each type of hardwood has its unique characteristics, such as color, grain pattern, and hardness.

For example, oak is a popular choice due to its durability and affordability, while cherry has a warm reddish-brown color and a smooth grain pattern.

2. Natural Beauty

One of the main advantages of hardwood flooring is its natural beauty. Hardwood floors can add warmth and character to any room, and they can be customized to match any decor style. Additionally, hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished multiple times, allowing homeowners to change the color or finish of their floors as needed.

3. Longevity and Care

Hardwood floors are known for their durability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, hardwood floors can last for decades. However, they do require regular maintenance, such as sweeping and mopping, to prevent scratches and damage. Additionally, hardwood floors should be protected from moisture, as excess moisture can cause the wood to warp or buckle.

4. Price Considerations

While hardwood flooring is a popular choice, it can be more expensive than other flooring materials, such as luxury vinyl plank. The cost of hardwood flooring can vary depending on the type of wood, the quality of the wood, and the installation method. Additionally, hardwood floors may require additional maintenance and repair costs over time.

Overall, hardwood flooring is a beautiful and durable choice for homeowners who are willing to invest in its long-term care and maintenance. However, it’s important to consider all factors, including price and maintenance requirements, before making a decision.

Installation Process of Luxury Vinyl Plank And Hardwood Flooring

When it comes to installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and hardwood floors, the processes are quite different. In this section, we will break down the installation process for both types of flooring.

Installing Luxury Vinyl Plank

The installation process for LVP is relatively straightforward and can be done by a DIYer with some basic handyman skills. Here are the steps involved in installing LVP:

Prepare the subfloor: The subfloor needs to be clean, dry, and level before installing LVP. Any bumps or uneven areas should be sanded down or filled in with a self-leveling compound.

Measure and cut the planks: Measure the length and width of the room and cut the planks accordingly. Make sure to leave a 1/4-inch gap around the edges of the room for expansion.
Lay the first row: Start in a corner of the room and lay the first row of planks, making sure they are straight and snugly fit together. Use a tapping block and a rubber mallet to ensure a tight fit.
Continue laying the planks: Continue laying the planks row by row, making sure to stagger the seams for a more natural look. Use a utility knife to cut the planks to fit around obstacles like doorways and corners.

Install baseboards: Once all the planks are laid, install baseboards or quarter-round to cover the gap between the flooring and the wall.

Laying Hardwood Floors

real Hardwood Floors advantages

Installing hardwood floors is a more complicated process that requires specialized tools and skills. Here are the steps involved in laying hardwood floors:

Prepare the subfloor: The subfloor needs to be clean, dry, and level before installing hardwood floors. Any bumps or uneven areas should be sanded down or filled in with a self-leveling compound.

Acclimate the wood: The hardwood planks need to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation.
Install the underlayment: Install a layer of underlayment to provide a moisture barrier and sound insulation.
Lay the first row: Start in a corner of the room and lay the first row of planks, making sure they are straight and snugly fit together. Use a pneumatic flooring nailer to secure the planks to the subfloor.

Continue laying the planks: Continue laying the planks row by row, making sure to stagger the seams for a more natural look. Use a pneumatic flooring nailer or a drill and screws to secure the planks to the subfloor.
Install baseboards: Once all the planks are laid, install baseboards or quarter-round to cover the gap between the flooring and the wall.

Overall, the installation process for LVP is simpler and more DIY-friendly than hardwood floors. However, hardwood floors offer a more classic and elegant look that many homeowners prefer.

Comparison chart Summary Of Vinyl Floor vs Hardwood Floor

	Hardwood Floor	Vinyl Floor

Durability	Depends on a number of factors, such as whether the floor is finished, type of wood used, what room it is in, and how well it is maintained. Cannot be installed in basements. Properly finished and well-maintained hardwood floors can last for decades.	Durable, but can be scratched or dented
Cost	Generally, the harder the hardwood, the more expensive it is, but also the more durable it is. Including labor expenses for installation, most hardwood floors cost between $8 and $15 per square foot.	$2 to $7 per square foot, installed.
Installation	Used to be very difficult to install; mistakes could be frustrating and expensive. Today, most wood flooring is pre-cut into easy-to-install tongue and groove planks.	Glue-down; peel-and-stick over wood, cement, or previously installed flooring
Resale value	Excellent	Fair to poor
Composition	Comes in a variety of differently sized cuts and is made from real solid woods, giving it natural grains and tones, from light browns, to neutral grays and rich reddish bronzes. Oak and maple are the most common hardwoods used.	Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin with dies, textures, rubberizing plastics, stabilizers; single textured/stylized layer
Material	Wood; timber from harvested trees, mostly angiosperms	A synthetic material manufactured from petroleum.
Repair	Can be repaired by sanding and refinishing	A single tear or cut can be replaced by a patch of the same design, but replacement is a better option for wear and tear.
Source	Natural	Synthetic
Upkeep	Keep clean and free of moisture, avoid causing damage, use pads on the feet of furniture. Do not let water sit. Particularly important to use the right kinds of cleaners.	Protect heavy traffic areas with mats or rugs; sweep, mop, vacuum with beater up/off; use manufacturer-recommended cleaners. Cannot be refinished.
Moisture resistance	Prone to moisture penetration, discoloration, or warping. Engineered hardwood slightly more water resistant alternative.	Impervious
Environmental Considerations	Hardwood flooring can be very environmentally friendly, provided it is bought from a responsible supplier. look for hardwoods certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).	May release chlorine gas and phthalate-related toxins and may contain asbestos (prior to ~80s). Recyclable if it does not contain PVC or asbestos.
Restoration	Can be easily restored to like-new condition.	Not easily restorable; must be replaced once protective coating has worn away.
Prone to damage	Prone to scratching and to moisture damage	Prone to cuts and tears
Thickness	0.75 inch to 6 inches	1.5 mm to 5 mm

Environmental Impact of Both Products

Luxury Vinyl Plank and Hardwood Flooring have different environmental impacts. This section will explore the environmental impact of both flooring options.

Luxury Vinyl Plank’s Footprint

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other chemicals. The manufacturing process of LVP releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. VOCs are harmful to human health and the environment. Additionally, the production of PVC requires a lot of energy and releases greenhouse gases.

However, LVP can be a more environmentally friendly option than hardwood flooring in some cases. LVP can be made from recycled materials, and it is often recyclable. Furthermore, LVP can be produced with a lower carbon footprint than hardwood flooring.

Hardwood Flooring Sustainability

Hardwood flooring is a natural material that is renewable and biodegradable. Hardwood flooring is often sourced from responsibly managed forests. Sustainable forestry practices ensure that forests are not over-harvested and that the ecosystem is not damaged.

However, the production of hardwood flooring requires a lot of energy and resources. Additionally, the transportation of hardwood flooring from the forest to the manufacturer and then to the consumer can have a significant carbon footprint.

Overall, both LVP and hardwood flooring have their environmental impacts. LVP can be more environmentally friendly in some cases, but it is important to consider the manufacturing process and the materials used. Hardwood flooring is a renewable resource, but it is important to ensure that the wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests.

Resale Value Comparison

When it comes to resale value, both luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and hardwood flooring can increase the value of a home. However, hardwood flooring is often considered to be the more desirable option by homebuyers.

According to real estate experts, hardwood floors can increase a home’s resale value by up to 2.5%. In contrast, LVP can increase a home’s resale value by up to 1.5%. While this may not seem like a significant difference, it can add up to thousands of dollars in value for a home.

One reason why hardwood flooring is more desirable is that it is a natural material that is often associated with high-end homes. Hardwood floors are also known for their durability and longevity, which can be appealing to homebuyers who want a low-maintenance home.

On the other hand, LVP is a synthetic material that is designed to mimic the look of hardwood flooring. While LVP has come a long way in terms of its appearance and durability, it may not have the same appeal as hardwood flooring for some homebuyers.

Another factor to consider is the cost of installation. Hardwood flooring can be more expensive to install than LVP, which can make it less appealing to some homeowners. However, it is important to note that the cost of installation can vary depending on the type of hardwood flooring and the location of the home.

Overall, both luxury vinyl plank and hardwood flooring can increase the resale value of a home. However, hardwood flooring is often considered to be the more desirable option due to its natural material and durability. Homeowners should weigh the costs and benefits of each option before making a decision.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between luxury vinyl plank and hardwood flooring, there are a few key factors to consider.

Firstly, hardwood flooring is a classic and timeless option that adds a touch of elegance to any room. It is also durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance. However, it is often more expensive than luxury vinyl plank and can be more difficult to install.

On the other hand, luxury vinyl plank is a versatile and affordable option that can mimic the look of hardwood flooring. It is also easy to install and maintain, making it a popular choice for homeowners. However, it may not have the same level of durability as hardwood flooring and may need to be replaced more frequently.

Ultimately, the choice between luxury vinyl plank and hardwood flooring will depend on personal preferences and budget. Homeowners who value the classic look and durability of hardwood flooring may be willing to pay the higher price tag, while those who prioritize affordability and versatility may opt for luxury vinyl plank.

It’s important to note that both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. By weighing the pros and cons of each option, homeowners can make an informed decision that meets their needs and fits their budget.

Frequently Asked Questions On Luxury Vinyl Plank Vs Hardwood Flooring

What are the differences between hardwood and luxury vinyl plank flooring?

Hardwood flooring is made from natural wood, while luxury vinyl plank flooring is made from synthetic materials. Hardwood flooring is generally more expensive than luxury vinyl plank flooring, but it can also add more value to a home. Additionally, hardwood flooring requires more maintenance than luxury vinyl plank flooring.

Is luxury vinyl plank flooring more durable than hardwood?

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is generally more durable than hardwood flooring. It is resistant to scratches, stains, and dents, which makes it a good option for households with kids and pets. Hardwood flooring, on the other hand, can be easily damaged by heavy traffic, rough play, and long claws.

Can luxury vinyl plank flooring mimic the look of real wood?

Yes, luxury vinyl plank flooring can mimic the look of real wood. It can be molded to mimic the texture of real wood floors by matching every unique knot, whorl, and groove in the wood-like visual on the plank. This gives you the hardwood floor feel underfoot.

What are the disadvantages of luxury vinyl plank flooring?

One disadvantage of luxury vinyl plank flooring is that it is not as environmentally friendly as hardwood flooring. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is made from synthetic materials, which are not biodegradable. Additionally, luxury vinyl plank flooring is not as long-lasting as hardwood flooring, which can last for decades with proper maintenance.

Does luxury vinyl plank flooring devalue a home?

No, luxury vinyl plank flooring does not necessarily devalue a home. It can add value to a home if it is installed correctly and looks good. However, some potential homebuyers may prefer hardwood flooring over luxury vinyl plank flooring, which could affect the value of a home.

Is luxury vinyl plank flooring a good option for households with kids?

Yes, luxury vinyl plank flooring is a good option for households with kids. It is resistant to scratches, stains, and dents, which makes it a good choice for high-traffic areas. Additionally, luxury vinyl plank flooring is easy to clean, which can be helpful when dealing with spills and accidents.