Introduction
When it comes to choosing flooring, most homeowners narrow their options down to hardwood flooring and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Hardwood has been the gold standard for centuries, symbolizing elegance and longevity. On the other hand, LVP has rapidly grown in popularity, with sales surging over 25% year-over-year in the U.S. thanks to its affordability and durability.
But when you’re investing in your home, the real question is: Which offers better value—luxury vinyl plank or hardwood flooring? In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the pros, cons, costs, and best use cases of each flooring type to help you make the right choice.
Understanding the Basics
Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood is crafted from solid pieces of timber, typically oak, maple, hickory, or walnut. It’s prized for its natural beauty, long lifespan, and ability to be refinished multiple times.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring
LVP is a man-made flooring solution designed to mimic hardwood while offering waterproof protection and a lower price point. It’s made of multiple layers, including a wear layer, photographic layer, vinyl core, and backing.
Cost Comparison
- Hardwood Flooring: $8–$15 per sq. ft. installed. Exotic species like Brazilian Cherry can reach $20+ per sq. ft. Refinishing costs about $3–$5 per sq. ft. every 7–10 years.
- LVP Flooring: $3–$7 per sq. ft. installed. Requires no refinishing and minimal maintenance, making it more budget-friendly upfront and long term.
Winner: LVP for affordability.
Durability & Longevity
- Hardwood Flooring: Lasts 50–100 years if well maintained. However, it’s prone to scratches, dents, and water damage.
- LVP Flooring: Lasts 15–25 years, with a thick wear layer protecting against scratches and stains. Completely waterproof, making it ideal for basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Winner: Hardwood for longevity; LVP for practical everyday durability.
Maintenance
- Hardwood: Requires refinishing every few years. Sensitive to water, humidity, and cleaning chemicals.
- LVP: Simple upkeep—just sweep and mop. No refinishing needed, and resistant to spills and stains.
Winner: LVP for ease of care.
Aesthetic Appeal
- Hardwood Flooring: Nothing matches the authenticity of real wood. Every plank has unique grain patterns and color variations. Over time, hardwood develops a natural patina that enhances its character.
- LVP Flooring: Thanks to advanced 3D printing and embossing, many LVP products look strikingly similar to hardwood. Options like herringbone LVP and wide planks can mimic upscale hardwood designs at a lower cost.
Winner: Hardwood for prestige and natural authenticity.
Resale Value
- Hardwood Flooring: Increases home resale value significantly. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), buyers are willing to pay up to 5% more for homes with hardwood flooring.
- LVP Flooring: Adds value compared to carpet or laminate but doesn’t match the market appeal of real hardwood.
Winner: Hardwood for boosting property value.
Environmental Impact
- Hardwood: Considered sustainable if sourced responsibly (FSC-certified). It’s biodegradable and long-lasting, reducing waste over time.
- LVP: Made from PVC and other synthetic materials, not biodegradable. However, some brands now use recycled content and low-VOC adhesives for eco-friendliness.
Winner: Hardwood for sustainability.
Where Each Flooring Works Best
Best Use Cases for Hardwood Flooring:
- Living Rooms & Dining Areas where luxury and aesthetics matter.
- Historic Homes to maintain authenticity.
- High-Value Properties where resale value is a priority.
Best Use Cases for Luxury Vinyl Plank:
- Bathrooms & Kitchens thanks to its waterproof design.
- Basements where moisture is a concern.
- Rental Properties & Commercial Spaces for affordability and low maintenance.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) | Hardwood Flooring |
| Cost (per sq. ft.) | $3–$7 | $8–$15+ |
| Lifespan | 15–25 years | 50–100 years |
| Waterproof | YES | NO |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate to High |
| Refinishing | NO | YES |
| Resale Value | Moderate | High |
| Eco-Friendly | Moderate | High |
Rustic Wood Floor Supply: Flooring Experts You Can Trust
At Rustic Wood Floor Supply, we provide homeowners and contractors with both hardwood flooring and luxury vinyl plank flooring options. Whether you value the timeless appeal of hardwood or the practicality of LVP, we help you find the perfect solution for your project.
- High-quality flooring products at competitive prices.
- Professional-grade sundries and equipment for installation.
- Fast delivery across the U.S.
- Call (208) 377-0335 today or visit Rustic Wood Floor Supply to explore our wide flooring selection.
Conclusion
The decision between luxury vinyl plank and hardwood flooring comes down to lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. If you want a timeless investment that adds property value, hardwood flooring is your best choice. If you need a cost-effective, waterproof, and low-maintenance option, LVP flooring is the winner.
At Rustic Wood Floor Supply, we offer both options—helping you balance beauty, performance, and budget. Contact us today to explore the best flooring solution for your home.
FAQs
Q1: Is hardwood better than LVP?
It depends on your goals. Hardwood is unmatched in beauty and resale value, while LVP offers affordability, waterproof qualities, and easy maintenance.
Q2: Does LVP look like real wood?
Yes, modern LVP uses advanced imaging and embossing technology to closely replicate natural hardwood textures.
Q3: Which lasts longer: hardwood or LVP?
Hardwood can last up to a century with care, while LVP typically lasts 15–25 years.
Q4: Can hardwood be installed in kitchens and bathrooms?
It’s not recommended due to moisture risks. LVP is a better choice for these areas.
Q5: Is LVP good for resale value?
While it won’t add as much value as hardwood, it’s still a strong selling point compared to cheaper flooring options like carpet.
