LVP vs Engineered Hardwood Flooring Comparison Guide
When it comes to choosing the right flooring for your home, there are many options available on the market today. Two popular choices for homeowners are Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring and Engineered Wood flooring. While both options have their benefits, there are some key differences to consider before making a final decision.
Durability and Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of luxury vinyl plank flooring (LVP) is its durability. It is waterproof and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children. It also requires minimal maintenance, as it is easy to clean and doesn't require any special treatments.
Engineered wood, on the other hand, is not waterproof and can be susceptible to scratches and dents. It requires more maintenance, such as regular cleaning and polishing, to maintain its appearance and durability.
Installation
Another key difference between vinyl flooring and engineered wood flooring is the ease of installation. LVP flooring is easy to install and can often be done as a DIY project. It is also versatile in terms of where it can be installed, including over existing floors, such as tile, concrete slab or old hardwoods.
Luxury vinyl planks can be installed with a "floating floor" approach. This means that in most cases you won't need to use nails or glue.
However, engineered wood floors in many cases are installed with an adhesive or nails, depending on the brand. This can make installing engineered hardwood more challenging and require the services of a professional installer. It also typically needs to be installed over an underlayment, which can add to the cost and complexity of the installation process.
Appearance
When it comes to the appearance of the flooring, both LVP and engineered hardwood can provide a beautiful finish to any room. Vinyl planks or luxury vinyl tiles can mimic the look of real wood, stone, or tile and comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, provides a more natural and authentic look of real wood, with its unique grain patterns and texture. However, the color and pattern options are more limited with engineered hardwood flooring. Keep in mind that unlike traditional solid wood flooring, which can be refinished/sanded and stained, engineered floors are typically manufactured to not be refinished.
Cost
The cost of the flooring is also an important factor to consider. LVP flooring is generally less expensive than engineered wood, making it a more budget-friendly option for homeowners. The cost of LVP flooring can vary depending on the quality and brand, but it is generally a more affordable option. While it's not as affordable as laminate, LVP is a budget-friendly option for a DIY homeowner who wants to save on material costs.
Engineered hardwood floors, on the other hand, can be quite expensive, particularly for high-end or exotic wood species. It is important to factor in the cost of installation, as well, as this can add significantly to the overall cost of the flooring. Keep in mind that the product thickness has an impact on the cost. Some engineered products are just a thick as ordinary solid, hardwood floor planks.
Environmental Impact
Finally, when choosing between LVP and engineered wood flooring, it is important to consider the environmental impact of each option. LVP flooring is made from PVC, which is not biodegradable and can be harmful to the environment. It is also a product of the petrochemical industry, which is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions.
Engineered wood flooring, on the other hand, is made from real wood and can be a more sustainable option. However, it is important to choose wood that is sourced responsibly and certified by organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure that it is not contributing to deforestation.
Our Pick
Both LVP and engineered wood flooring have their advantages and disadvantages, but are both fantastic flooring options. LVP flooring is a durable, low-maintenance, and budget-friendly choice, while engineered wood flooring provides a natural and authentic look, but requires more maintenance and can be quite expensive.
If your budget is a little bigger, we recommend engineered wood. However, if the location of the install is in a kitchen, bath or high traffic area, we recommend a floating floor option such as LVP. If you really want to cut costs, you can also consider a laminate option instead of LVP or engineered wood.