So, how do you choose between LVP vs engineered hardwood?
What Is LVP Flooring?
LVP flooring, orluxury vinyl plankflooring, is a multi-layer, plank-style material made from vinyl.
The Spruce / Margot Cavin
A layer of aluminum oxide on top protects the flooring from scratches.
Engineered hardwood flooring is a laminated, plank-style flooring.
The main difference between engineered hardwood flooring and LVP are materials from which they’re made.
Engineered hardwood flooring is made out of wood, while LVP is made of vinyl.
Naturally, this affects everything from the look and feeling underfoot to the performance and longevity.
Installation
LVP flooring is generally considered easier to install than engineered hardwood flooring.
There are click-lock iterations of engineered hardwood as well, but this is typically reserved for thin profile varieties.
Traditionalengineered hardwood installationutilizes a tongue-and-groove edge just like its solid hardwood counterpart.
LVP flooring can often be found from $1 to $10 per square foot.
On the other hand, spending less may result in alower resale value.
However, it’s a good idea to use a minimal amount of water when mopping engineered hardwood flooring.
Design
Both LVP and engineered hardwood do a fantastic job of mimicking solid hardwood flooring.
However, if you’re after the closest imitation of solid hardwood, engineered hardwood has the edge.
This is due to engineered hardwood’s use of solid hardwood.
These planks feature grooves that simulate the texture of wood grain on the floor’s surface.
Water Resistance
LVP is more water-resistant than engineered hardwood.
In fact, many LVP flooring options are 100% waterproof.
This makes them ideal for areas that may see water, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
Because LVP is made of vinyl, water isn’t a concern for the flooring material itself.
The greater concern is water penetrating the flooring and reaching the subfloor.
For this reason, waterproof LVP planks are designed to be impenetrable when installed correctly.
Engineered hardwood flooring isn’t waterproof, but most varieties can stand up to water better than solid hardwood.
Still, engineered hardwood shouldn’t be your first choice for areas that see a lot of water.
When shopping, check the manufacturer’s labels carefully and never assume that engineered flooring is waterproof.
The hardwood wear layer of engineered hardwood can be anywhere from 2mm to 10mm thick.
The thicker the wear layer that engineered hardwood flooring has, the more it can be refinished.
Durability
Engineered hardwood and LVP are both durable flooring options but in different ways.
To minimize scratching on your engineered hardwood floors, sweep or vacuum them regularly.
One of the most common sources of scratching is rocks and other debris getting caught beneath furniture and feet.
LVP vs.
Engineered Hardwood: Which Is Better?
So, which is better: LVP or engineered hardwood?
It’s also ideal for those with a tight budget.
