Key takeaways
- Solid hardwood is the most refinishable and the most sensitive to moisture.
- Engineered hardwood has a real wood top and a stable core.
- Luxury vinyl plank is waterproof and the easiest to live with.
- The right choice depends on the room, the subfloor and your priorities.
Solid hardwood
Solid hardwood is milled from one piece of wood. It can be sanded and refinished many times and often adds value to a home. It expands and contracts with humidity, so it belongs on or above grade over a wood subfloor.
It dents more easily than very hard products, and it should be cleaned with products made for wood.
Engineered hardwood
Engineered hardwood has a real wood wear layer over a layered core. It is more stable, can go over slabs and radiant heat and comes in wide planks. How often it can be refinished depends on the thickness of the wear layer.
It has the real look and feel of wood at a stability level closer to laminate.
Luxury vinyl plank
Luxury vinyl plank, or LVP, has a printed wood image, a clear wear layer and a waterproof core. It is quiet, comfortable, easy to clean and good for kitchens, baths and basements.
It cannot be refinished, but a good wear layer lasts a long time, and damaged planks can be replaced.
How to decide
If you want the most authentic and refinishable wood, choose solid hardwood where conditions allow. If you want real wood in a basement, condo or radiant-heated room, engineered is the stronger choice. If you want the lowest upkeep and waterproof protection, LVP is hard to beat.
Many homes mix: hardwood or engineered in living areas and LVP or tile in wet rooms.
Quick answers
Does luxury vinyl plank add value like hardwood?
Hardwood is generally seen as more valuable by buyers, but quality LVP is a popular, well-regarded choice.
Can I put engineered hardwood in a kitchen?
Yes, with care. Wipe spills quickly and use mats at the sink.
