Engineered Hardwood vs Luxury Vinyl Planks: What's the Difference?

Wood floors have been a favorite look for homeowners for centuries. Advances in material construction mean that you now have more options than ever for achieving this style. Two of the most popular materials for those seeking a hardwood look are engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl plank flooring.

In this article, we will go over the many similarities and vast differences between these two popular flooring options.

What is Engineered Hardwood?

Engineered hardwood consists of a thin layer of real hardwood veneer bonded to a core of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF) and finished with a water-resistant backing. This construction enhances dimensional stability, making planks less prone to warping due to moisture and temperature changes compared to solid hardwood. It provides the aesthetic appeal of real hardwood while offering improved durability and flexibility in installation.  

What is Luxury Vinyl?

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a synthetic flooring product made from multiple layers, including a clear wear layer, a printed design layer, and a vinyl core. The wear layer protects against scratches and stains, while the high-definition design layer recreates the appearance of real wood or stone. LVP is designed to be highly durable, nearly waterproof, and easy to install, making it a popular choice for high-traffic and moisture-prone areas such as kitchens, basements and laundry rooms.  

Aesthetics

Engineered hardwood showcases the natural beauty of real wood, offering a sense of timeless elegance. Each plank has a unique grain pattern, color variation and genuine texture, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The natural variations within engineered hardwood provide the level of depth and authenticity that makes hardwood floors a perennial favorite.  

Luxury vinyl plank replicates the appearance of natural materials with a high-definition image, but it still presents a slightly different aesthetic. Advances in printing and embossing technologies have enabled LVP to achieve remarkable visual realism, effectively mimicking wood and stone. However, despite these advancements, the overall feel may not entirely replicate the warmth and natural character of genuine wood. That said, the broad range of available LVP designs and textures allows homeowners to achieve diverse styles, from rustic to contemporary.  

Durability & Lifespan

Engineered hardwood can be highly durable, and the thicker the veneer, the more resistant it will be to dents. Thicker veneers also allow you to sand and refinish the flooring. However, engineered hardwood is generally less resistant to scratches and impacts compared to LVP.

Its lifespan can vary considerably, ranging from 20 to 90 years. The main factor determining lifespan for engineered hardwood is how often you are able to sand and refinish it. Planks with thinner veneers (in the range of 1.2 to 3 millimeters) are not able to be refinished, so they will last approximately 20 to 30 years. Thicker veneers offer more chances to refinish and refresh the surface, extending the life of the floor to 60 or even 90 years or more.  

Luxury vinyl plank, on the other hand, is renowned for its ability to resist scratches, dents and stains. However, heavy furniture or sharp objects can still cause damage if dropped or dragged across the floor. The main determinant in how effectively LVP stands up to scratches and dents is the wear layer---the thicker the wear layer, the more durable the floor.

Unlike engineered hardwood, LVP cannot be refinished, so any deep scratches or gouges may require replacing individual planks. However, due to its high durability, you can still expect your LVP floor to last between 15 and 30 years.  

Water Resistance

Engineered hardwood offers better moisture resistance than solid hardwood due to its multi-layered construction, which provides added stability and reduces the risk of warping or swelling. However, it is not even close to being waterproof. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause damage, including warping, cupping, or separation of the veneer layer. Spills should not be left to stand, and excessive moisture should be avoided to preserve the integrity of the flooring. While engineered hardwood can handle some humidity fluctuations better than solid hardwood, it is not recommended for areas with high moisture levels or frequent spills.

Luxury vinyl planks’ synthetic construction prevents water from penetrating the material itself, allowing it to withstand spills, humidity, and potentially some standing water without warping or damage. This makes LVP ideal for kitchens, basements, and any other space where there will frequently be high amounts of moisture accumulating on the floor. However, LVP floors are not completely waterproof, and liquid spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent moisture from penetrating the gaps between pieces or any imperfections in the material.

Unlike engineered hardwood, LVP does not require special precautions to prevent water damage, making it a low-maintenance and worry-free flooring solution.

Installation Methods

Engineered hardwood offers several installation methods, including nail-down, glue-down, and floating floor techniques. The nail-down method is best suited for wood subfloors, while the glue-down method is commonly used for concrete subfloors. Floating floors, which use a click-lock system, provide an easier installation option that does not require adhesives. However, engineered hardwood typically requires a few days of acclimation before installation to allow it to adjust to room temperature and humidity. Because of the complexity and tools involved, professional installation is often recommended to ensure the best results.

Luxury vinyl plank is much easier for DIYers of most skill levels to install. The most common installation method is the click-lock system, which allows the planks to snap together without the need for glue or nails. The other common installation method is glue-down installation, which provides a secure bond to the subfloor and prevents potential shifting. Compared to engineered hardwood, LVP does not require as long of an acclimation period, allowing for quicker installation. The overall simplicity of installation makes LVP a preferred choice for anyone looking for a quick and cost-effective flooring solution.

Maintenance

The level of maintenance required for engineered hardwood and LVP is roughly the same, but there are some key differences.

Engineered hardwood needs regular sweeping or vacuuming to remove debris, and damp mopping with a wood-specific cleaner, ideally once a week. It is essential to avoid excessive moisture and harsh chemicals, as these could lead to warping. Any spills should be wiped up immediately to prevent moisture from seeping between the planks and causing damage. To prevent scratches from shifting furniture, place protective pads or rugs underneath the feet of the furniture.

Luxury vinyl plank also needs sweeping or vacuuming and not much else to keep it looking clean. Its resistance to stains and spills minimizes further maintenance requirements, but for deeper cleaning you can confidently mop with a mild cleaner and water, since LVP is almost completely waterproof.

Cost

Engineered hardwood is typically more expensive than LVP, with material costs ranging from $3 to $7 per square foot, depending on the wood species and veneer thickness. Installation costs can add another $3 to $8 per square foot, making it a significant investment. However, its ability to be refinished increases its long-term value.  

Luxury vinyl planking is generally more affordable, with material costs ranging from $2 to $6 per square foot, though some options can reach as high as $10 per square foot. Installation costs can be avoided entirely for the dedicated DIYer because LVP's click-lock system is designed for ease of installation. Since LVP does not require refinishing, its long-term costs may be lower than engineered hardwood, but it may also need to be replaced sooner.

Which is Right for You?

Engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl plank flooring both offer many desirable attributes, so the right choice for you will depend on what you value most.

Engineered hardwood is a great choice for those looking for a genuine wood surface and a floor that will last for generations, or who are planning to hire a professional to install their flooring. It adds warmth and authenticity to a space and can have an impact similar to that of solid hardwood on motivating potential buyers, making it ideal for homeowners looking for a high-end flooring option. It is also an investment in the future of your house, which is especially important for families who plan for the house itself to be passed down to future generations.

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is ideal for the more budget conscious home renovator, DIY enthusiasts, and those who prioritize strength and moisture resistance. It is an excellent choice for families with pets and children, as well as for high-traffic areas that require extra durability. While it does not add the same level of timeless charm as engineered hardwood, its ease of installation, affordability and resilience make it a highly practical choice for many homeowners.