Deciding on flooring is kind of like picking your go-to coffee order. There are a million options, it feels like a huge decision, and let’s be honest, you want to get it right the first time. Well, if you’re stuck between Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and hardwood flooring, congratulations! You’ve already zeroed in on two incredible options. But which flooring style really suits your home, your budget, and your lifestyle?

Spoiler alert: No matter which one you pick, AnyTopShop has you covered with top-notch flooring and practically magic-level professional installation.

The Main Differences Between LVP Flooring and Hardwood

Keep reading for the ultimate face-off between LVP and hardwood. We’ll talk about costs, style, durability, and more. Oh, and spoiler alert: Both choices can make your home look chef’s kiss amazing.

Essentially, hardwood is like wearing designer shoes to impress, while LVP is the pair of stylish sneakers that still look sharp after your 10,000 steps.

Durability

• Hardwood: Gorgeous? Yes. Durable? Well… kinda. Hardwood can scratch, warp, and show its age if exposed to too much moisture. High heels, pet claws, or a spilled margarita? Consider that a hardwood nightmare.
• LVP: Bring on the pets, drinks, and, yes, even stompy toddler tantrums. LVP is built to last with scratch and water resistance, making it perfect for those living real, messy lives.

Appearance

• Hardwood: Hardwood will always win the beauty pageant. There’s nothing quite like that rich, authentic grain under natural light. The patina it develops over time? Pure art.
• LVP: LVP doesn’t want to be second fiddle. Thanks to modern technology, LVP convincingly mimics hardwood’s looks. From hand-scraped textures to trendy wide planks, it’s here to impress.

What Does It Cost to Install LVP vs Hardwood?

Ah, the million-dollar question (though thankfully, it’ll cost way less than that). Let’s talk about your wallet, because ultimately, budget plays a BIG role in this decision.

• Hardwood: There’s no sugarcoating here. Hardwood installation can cost anywhere from $8 to $15 per square foot (or more, depending on your tastes). And if you want exotic wood like Brazilian cherry? Prepare to shell out.
• LVP: Hello, budget-friendly option! LVP installation generally runs between $2 and $6 per square foot. Bonus points for its DIY-friendly nature if you’re feeling handy.

Here’s a simple rule of thumb: If you’re redecorating a room where champagne flows like water (read: you’re feeling bougie), go for hardwood. If you’re sprucing up your heavily-used living room on a beer budget, LVP says “Pick me!”

LVP vs Hardwood: Side By Side Comparison Table

| Feature | Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) | Hardwood Flooring ||

| Material | Synthetic, PVC-based | Authentic solid wood |

| Average Cost | $3 to $9 per sq. ft. (installation incl.)| $10 to $23 per sq. ft. (incl. install) |

| Durability | Highly resistant to scratches, dents, and moisture | Prone to scratches and dents; can warp in moisture |

| Maintenance | Low. Sweep, mop, repeat! | High. Needs refinishing and extra care |

| Appearance | Realistic wood-look with uniform patterns | Unique, natural grain patterns that vary by plank |

| Lifespan | ~20 years | 75+ years (with good care) |

| Best For | Busy households, budget-conscious homeowners, humid spaces | Homes prioritizing luxury and authenticity |

Make the Right Choice for Your Home

Whether you’ve fallen in love with hardwood’s timeless charm or you’re vibing with the practicality of LVP, one thing’s clear—we’re here to help. At Anytopshop, we’ve got all the flooring options you could dream of PLUS expert installation services to make your vision come to life.