If you’re trying to figure out what floor surface you’d like to add to your home, you’re probably researching various options to choose the best one. Many people will narrow down choices to either 1) luxury vinyl plank flooring or 2) engineered hardwood surfaces.
Either may look amazing in your home or office, and they have a lot in common. Both engineered hardwood and luxury waterproof core vinyl planks come in a wide variety of colors, woodgrains, plank sizes, and more. Yet there are some differences you should be aware of before you commit to one. Here are a few things to consider when deciding on what to install:
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Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, it doesn’t get any easier than luxury vinyl plank flooring! You won’t have to worry about mopping luxury vinyl floor planks because they’re completely water-resistant. Just sweep and use a steam mop or wet mop.
You need to take special care when you clean manufactured hardwood flooring, because it does not react well to standing water. Sweep and use a microfiber dust mop. Always wipe up spills as they occur. Low-moisture wet mopping is okay, like a swiffer. Avoid harsh cleansers.
Durability
Luxury vinyl plank floors are popular with households that have pets or kids because they’re resistant to damage. Plus, they have a waterproof core, which means it can be used in practically every room of your home. But like other types of vinyl flooring surfaces, it can be gouged if something heavy is dropped on it or if it’s stabbed with something sharp. It doesn’t tear like traditional sheet vinyl.
Engineered hardwood can get scratched like traditional hardwood floors, but is more prone to dings than luxury vinyl planks are. Some engineered hardwood can be refinished in the future, which is a great feature. Engineered hardwood is not a good choice for wet areas.
Cost
If you’re on a budget, luxury vinyl plank floors are a great choice, being the lower cost of the two. But luxury vinyl is not a “cheap” flooring surface, it’s an affordable one. Not only is it at a lower cost to acquire, it’s also low cost to maintain.
Of course, if you find that manufactured hardwood meets your needs, you may be interested in paying the difference to get the specific wood grain or other feature you value. Many households value the ability to sand and refinish, which isn’t available with any vinyl flooring.
Each of these choices are right for someone. Which one’s right for you?
