Which is Best: Wood, Engineered Wood, or LVP?

Choosing the right flooring for your home is essential to creating a comfortable and stylish living space. When it comes to hardwood flooring, there are three main options to consider: traditional hardwood, engineered hardwood, and luxury vinyl planks (LVP). In this post, we'll explore the key differences between these three types of flooring to help you make an informed decision for your home.
Hardwood Flooring
Traditional hardwood flooring is made from solid wood planks that are typically 3/4" thick. It is the most luxurious and durable option among the three, with a timeless look that can add significant value to your home. Hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished multiple times, which makes them a practical long-term investment. However, they are also the most expensive and require the most maintenance. They can be susceptible to scratches, dents, and water damage, so they're not recommended for high-moisture areas like bathrooms or basements.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring is made from a layer of real hardwood veneer attached to several layers of plywood. This construction makes it more stable and less prone to expansion and contraction due to humidity than solid hardwood. Engineered hardwood is also more affordable than solid hardwood and can be installed over a variety of subfloors. However, it typically can only be sanded and refinished once or twice during its lifespan, and it doesn't add as much value to your home as solid hardwood does.
Luxury Vinyl Planks
Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) are a synthetic alternative to hardwood that have gained popularity in recent years. LVP is made from multiple layers of PVC or other synthetic materials that can mimic the look of hardwood. It is highly durable, scratch-resistant, and waterproof, making it ideal for high-moisture areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. LVP is also easy to install and maintain, with a lower price point than hardwood flooring. However, it doesn't add as much value to your home as hardwood flooring, and it can't be sanded and refinished like hardwood can.

When it comes to choosing between hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood flooring, and luxury vinyl planks, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Each option has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so it's essential to consider your budget, design aesthetic, and maintenance requirements before making a decision. If you want a luxurious, long-lasting option that adds significant value to your home, traditional hardwood flooring is the way to go. If you're looking for a more affordable, stable, and versatile option, engineered hardwood flooring may be the right choice for you. Finally, if you need a waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy-to-maintain option, luxury vinyl planks may be the best choice for your home