Engineered Hardwood vs. LVP: Which is Better?
Introduction
When it comes to choosing flooring for your home, there are many options available in the market. Two popular options are engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl planks (LVP). Both of these types of flooring have their own advantages and disadvantages, making it a difficult choice for homeowners to decide which one is best for their home.
In this article, we will compare engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl plank in terms of their durability, appearance, maintenance, and cost. You'll get to see the pros and cons of each type of flooring, see what factors you should consider before picking, and then get answers to the most frequently asked questions on this topic.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of which type of flooring is suitable for your home.
What Are Engineered Hardwood and Luxury Vinyl Plank?
Before we dive into the comparison, let's first understand what engineered hardwood flooring and luxury vinyl plank flooring are.
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood is a type of wood flooring made by stacking multiple layers of real wood veneers on top of each other, with a core layer made of high-density fiberboard for stability. This construction makes it more resistant to moisture and temperature changes compared to traditional solid hardwood flooring.
Luxury Vinyl Plank
On the other hand, what is luxury vinyl plank? LVP is a type of synthetic flooring that replicates the look and feel of real hardwood. It consists of multiple layers of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) with a photographic layer on top, mimicking the appearance of various wood species. This construction makes it highly durable and waterproof.
Engineered Hardwood vs. Luxury Vinyl Plank
Durability
When it comes to durability, LVP and engineered hardwood flooring have some key differences. Engineered hardwood is made by bonding multiple layers of wood together with heat and pressure. This makes it more durable than solid hardwood, as it can withstand changes in temperature and humidity. However, engineered hardwood can still be prone to scratches and dents if not properly maintained.
On the other hand, LVP is made of multiple layers of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) with a high-density foam core. This makes it a highly resistant vinyl flooring material to water damage and stains, making it a more durable option for areas prone to moisture and spills. Additionally, LVP is also dent and scratch-resistant, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas.
Appearance
Engineered wood flooring and LVP flooring both offer a wide variety of styles and designs to choose from. Engineered hardwood has a more traditional look and feel, as it is made of real wood. It can add warmth and character to a room, and can also be sanded and refinished multiple times to change its appearance.
But, LVP has come a long way in terms of design and technology. With advanced printing techniques, luxury vinyl flooring can mimic the look of natural materials like hardwood, stone, or tile. This makes it a versatile option for homeowners who want the look of a natural flooring material without the high cost.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, engineered hardwood and LVP have different requirements. Engineered hardwood should be regularly swept or vacuumed to remove dirt and debris, as well as mopped with a damp cloth using a special wood floor cleaner. It is also important to wipe up spills immediately to prevent damage to the wood.
Whereas luxury vinyl planks require minimal maintenance. It can be swept or vacuumed regularly and can also be mopped with a damp cloth. Unlike engineered hardwood, LVP is made of synthetic material making it waterproof and can handle spills and moisture without any damage.
Cost
The cost of flooring is often a major factor in decisions between engineered hardwood floors or luxury vinyl plank floors get a free estamate for your home. When talking in terms of cost, luxury vinyl plank just might be the better option for homeowners.
Good quality engineered hardwood planks are generally more expensive than LVP, as it is made of real wood. The price can vary depending on the type of wood used and its quality.
LVP flooring, on the other hand, is a budget-friendly option for homeowners. It is typically less expensive than engineered flooring and can also save money in the long run due to its durability and low maintenance requirements.
Pros vs. Cons; Engineered Hardwood vs LVP
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Pros :
- It is made of real wood, adding warmth and character to a room
- Hardwood flooring can also be refinished and sanded multiple times to change its appearance
Cons:
- Prone to scratches and dents if not properly maintained
- More expensive than LVP
Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
Pros:
- Highly durable and waterproof, making it suitable for high-moisture areas
- Resistant to scratches and dents, making it ideal for high-traffic areas
Cons:
- Not made of real wood, may not have the same warmth and character as engineered wood floors
- Cannot be sanded or refinished like engineered hardwood
Factors to Consider
When choosing between engineered hardwood and LVP, there are a few key factors that you should take into consideration. These include the location of installation, your budget, your personal style preferences, and your lifestyle needs. Carefully considering these factors will help you determine which type of flooring is the best fit for your home.
- Location of installation: LVP flooring is waterproof and can handle high-moisture areas like bathrooms and basements without the risk of water damage. Engineered hardwood flooring is more sensitive to moisture and may not be the best choice for these areas.
- Budget: LVP is generally more budget-friendly than engineered hardwood, both in terms of initial costs and long-term maintenance.
- Style preferences: If you love the classic and warm look of real wood, then engineered hardwood may be the better choice. If you prefer a more modern and versatile look, LVP offers a wide variety of styles that can mimic natural materials.
- Lifestyle needs: If you have a busy household with pets and children, the durability and low maintenance of LVP may be more appealing. Alternatively, if you are looking for long-lasting flooring that can be refinished multiple times, engineered hardwood would be more suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can engineered hardwood be refinished?
Yes, engineered hardwood can be sanded and refinished multiple times, depending on the thickness of the top veneer layer. This feature makes it a durable and long-lasting flooring option, providing flexibility for future renovations or style changes.
Which flooring option is better for a home with pets?
Both engineered hardwood and LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) are excellent choices for homes with pets. Engineered hardwood offers a timeless look, while LVP provides exceptional scratch and stain resistance. Additionally, LVP is known for its durability and easy maintenance, making it a popular option for pet owners.
Can engineered hardwood be installed in basements?
Yes, engineered hardwood can be a great choice for basements. Unlike solid hardwood, engineered hardwood is less prone to moisture damage, making it a more durable and practical option. Additionally, it offers a wide range of styles and finishes to suit any basement design.
Which type of flooring has an easier installation?
LVP flooring is generally easier to install than engineered hardwood. LVP can be installed as a floating floor, meaning it does not need to be glued or nailed down. This makes it a popular option for DIY projects. On the other hand, engineered hardwood installation usually requires a professional installer due to its more complicated and precise installation process.
Conclusion
Overall, both engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl plank offer unique benefits and are suitable for different preferences and needs. Engineered hardwood has a traditional and warm appearance but requires more maintenance, while LVP is highly durable and low-maintenance, with advanced design options. The decision ultimately comes down to personal preference, budget, and the specific needs of your living space.
Consider all factors and consult with a flooring professional such as ourselves at Floor-Tile to find the best option for your home. So, take your time, explore all options, and enjoy beautiful and long-lasting flooring that suits your style and needs. Happy renovating!
