Engineered Wood vs Vinyl

If you’re torn between investing in engineered wood or LVT (luxury vinyl tile) flooring, you’re not alone. Both options have advanced significantly, offering stylish and durable flooring solutions. But which one is best for your home? Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.

What is LVT Flooring Made From?

LVT flooring is composed of multiple layers, primarily made from PVC. It includes a photographic top layer that mimics the appearance of real wood or stone, providing a hyper-realistic finish.

What is Engineered Wood Flooring Made From?

Engineered wood flooring consists of several layers of wood, topped with a solid hardwood veneer. This construction combines the look of real wood with enhanced stability and resistance to environmental changes.

Waterproof Capabilities

Is Vinyl or Engineered Hardwood Better in Terms of Water Resistance?

• LVT Flooring: LVT is fully waterproof, making it an excellent choice for any room, including high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
• Engineered Wood Flooring: Engineered wood offers some water resistance but is not fully waterproof. It’s suitable for kitchens but not recommended for bathrooms or other moisture-prone areas.

Durability Comparison

Comparing Durability

• LVT Flooring: LVT is highly durable, offering excellent resistance to scratches, dents, and stains. It is easy to clean and maintain, with many options featuring a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
• Engineered Wood Flooring: Engineered wood is also durable and can withstand temperature and moisture fluctuations better than solid wood. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, depending on the thickness of the veneer.

Installation Process

Installing LVT vs. Engineered Wood Flooring

• LVT Flooring: LVT can be easier to install, especially those with a click system. However, many LVT floors require the gluedown method, which can be more time-consuming.
• Engineered Wood Flooring: Typically uses a tongue and groove system, which is straightforward but may take longer to install than click-system LVT. Both types can be installed as DIY projects.

Room Suitability

LVT or Engineered Wood for Kitchen and Other Rooms

• LVT Flooring: Suitable for all rooms, including high-moisture areas like bathrooms. Its waterproof nature makes it highly versatile.
• Engineered Wood Flooring: Best suited for areas like kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms. It should be avoided in bathrooms due to its susceptibility to water damage.

Insulation and Comfort

Comparing Insulation

Both LVT and engineered wood can be installed over underfloor heating systems, enhancing their warmth and comfort. However, LVT may provide slightly better noise dampening, especially with the right underlay.

Style and Aesthetic Options

LVT & Engineered Wood Styles & Effects

• LVT Flooring: Available in a wide variety of styles, including wood, stone, and abstract designs. LVT also offers various laying patterns such as herringbone, chevron, and stone tile.
• Engineered Wood Flooring: Offers natural wood aesthetics with finishes like oiled, lacquered, brushed, and hand-scraped. It also supports multiple laying patterns similar to LVT.

Additional Considerations

Environmental Impact

When choosing between LVT and engineered wood flooring, consider the environmental impact. LVT is made from synthetic materials, which may not be as eco-friendly as wood products. However, many manufacturers are now producing LVT with recycled content and low VOC emissions. Engineered wood, being made from natural materials, often has a lower environmental footprint. Look for options certified by environmental standards like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to ensure sustainable sourcing.

Cost and Value

• LVT Flooring: Generally, LVT is more affordable upfront compared to engineered wood. It provides excellent value for money, especially considering its durability and ease of maintenance. LVT is a great choice for budget-conscious homeowners who still want a stylish and durable floor.
• Engineered Wood Flooring: While more expensive than LVT, engineered wood adds value to your home with its authentic look and feel. It is a long-term investment that can enhance the aesthetic appeal and market value of your property.

Comfort and Acoustics

Both flooring types can be installed with underfloor heating systems, which enhance their warmth and comfort. Engineered wood floors tend to feel warmer and more natural underfoot compared to LVT. However, LVT offers better acoustic properties, reducing noise transmission, which can be particularly beneficial in multi-story homes or apartments.

Conclusion

When deciding between LVT and engineered wood flooring, it’s important to consider your specific needs and the room where the flooring will be installed. LVT’s waterproof nature and affordability make it ideal for bathrooms and kitchens, while engineered wood offers a more authentic wood appearance suitable for living spaces and bedrooms. Both options provide durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring your floors look beautiful for years to come.

For more guidance and to explore our extensive range of flooring options, visit our Laminate Flooring and Engineered Wood Flooring sections at Flooring King. Our expert team is here to help you choose the best flooring for your home.