LVP VS. HARDWOOD FLOORING
If you’re planning to install new flooring in your home, endless material and design options are available. It’s important to consider your lifestyle and aesthetic when choosing what flooring will best fit your home. Hardwood and LVP, or luxury vinyl plank, are two of the most popular flooring options out there. Thanks to their versatility and durability, these two flooring types are elegant for your interior design. Before you decide which flooring material is suitable for you, read on to learn more about the pros and cons of solid wood and LVP floors to make the right choice for your home.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring
Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring is made from compressed vinyl layers and mimic the look of real wood floors without the real hardwood price. LVP flooring has grown in popularity thanks to its easy maintenance and affordability. Vinyl flooring adds a beautiful look to your interior design without the high price tag. You can find luxury vinyl planks in long, rectangular-shaped planks or strips that resemble the look of natural hardwood, even tile or concrete.
The flexible, synthetic material has two transparent wear layers on top that prevent scratching and fading. Along with the top layer, it also has a rigid backing layer which makes it more durable than sheet vinyl. You can find it in several styles, including faux stone and wood. Now, let’s look at a few pros and cons of luxury vinyl flooring.
LVP Flooring Pros
LVP looks very similar to wood or stone, making it an affordable flooring option for those on a budget.
Vinyl floors are very pet-friendly and can hold up well to the wear and tear of high-traffic areas.
LVP adds a textured look and feel, making it an attractive option for any interior design style.
The material has water and moisture resistance, making luxury vinyl tile perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Luxury vinyl plank is easy to clean and only requires occasional vacuuming, sweeping, or mopping.
LVP Flooring Cons
The quality of LVP can vary greatly depending on the brand, finish, and price point.
Once the LVP is installed by yourself or a contractor, it can be difficult to remove.
Some LVP flooring does not have UV-protective layers. This means that it may fade or become discolored when exposed to direct sunlight over time.
It also may need a sub floor added underneath to add height to the flooring to meet up to tile or carpet in other rooms adding expense to the overall price.
Hardwood Flooring
With its luxurious look and feel, it’s no wonder that solid hardwood flooring is a favorite among many homeowners. This beautiful, natural material comes in a massive range of finishes, wood species, and widths. Prices per square foot may vary based on the brand name, type of wood, and installation method you choose. Most people love wood flooring due to its natural feel and warm, inviting look. It’s also very versatile and tends to go well with almost any interior design and décor. You can also refinish your hardwood floors multiple times, if you decide to change the color later or want to refinish it based on wear and tear. Here are a few more pros and cons of hardwood flooring.
Hardwood Flooring Pros
Hardwood flooring (which includes engineered flooring) seems to help hold or increase a home’s resale value due to its popularity.
When you take care of it, hardwood floors can be considered a durable flooring option that last for many years based on usage and wear. There are homes over 100 years old that still have their traditional hardwood in place.
Overall, hardwood flooring is a sustainable, eco-friendly choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
You can sand and refinish hardwood floors if you need to repair scratches & dents but also if you’d like to change the stain.
Hardwood Flooring Cons
Installation should be left to the professionals.
Hardwood flooring can be tough to maintain since it’s vulnerable to scratches, dents, dings, and water damage.
When temperatures and humidity fluctuate, hardwood flooring can expand and contract, causing some boards to come loose or pop out.
The cost of hardwood floors is much higher than other options like LVP, linoleum, and even many types of stone.
Contact Complements Home Interiors for Flooring Advice and Installation in Bend, Oregon
Keep these pros and cons in mind as you decide between LVP and hardwood flooring. With so many different options to choose from, you’re sure to find the right flooring to suit your lifestyle. Look for a professional contractor, like CHI, to help you with your new flooring purchase and installation to get the perfect look that you’ll love for years to come.