Engineered Hardwood vs Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Edmonds Waterfront, Captured by Christopher Nelson Photography
Engineered Hardwood vs Luxury Vinyl Plank
Flooring is more than a surface, it is an integral part of your home, and the right flooring sets the tone for your entire home. These materials affect not just the look of a space but also how it feels underfoot, and how environmentally friendly your home will be.
Two popular options that we will discuss today are Engineered Hardwood and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP). While both have their advantages, if you’re aiming for a timeless, high-quality look, engineered hardwood may be the superior choice.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between LVP and engineered hardwood, including aesthetics, durability, environmental impact, and overall value.
Edmonds Custom Build, Captured by Christopher Nelson Photography
What is Engineered Hardwood?
Engineered hardwood is comprised of a real hardwood veneer on top of multiple layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). This product is more structurally stable than solid hardwood, while still offering the authentic warmth, cohesiveness, and beauty of natural wood.
Pros of Engineered Hardwood
Natural Appearance: Nothing compares to the natural look and feel of real wood. Engineered hardwood offers authenticity that synthetic options simply can’t replicate.
Eco-Friendly Option: Wood is a renewable resource (especially when harvested sustainably), and engineered hardwood uses less slow-growing hardwood than solid planks. In the article, “Engineered Hardwood for a Sustainable Future” found on Science Direct, the authors state that “wood is one of the most abundant bioresources on the plant holds great promise for providing green energy and materials for a sustainable future.” It is also more biodegradable at the end of its life and can be dropped off at most household recycling centers.
Durability: With proper care, engineered hardwood can last decades! Often longer than LVP. The surface can be sanded down and refinished. Depending on the wear layer thickness, it can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
Higher Resale Value: Real wood flooring is highly desirable to potential homebuyers and can add significant value to your home.
Cons of Engineered Hardwood
Not Waterproof: While it is more stable than solid wood, engineered hardwood is susceptible to water damage if exposed to moisture overtime.
Potential VOCs: Some engineered products used adhesives that may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), make sure to look for low-VOC certified options.
Deforestation risk: If not certified by programs like Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), it may contribute to deforestation.
Edmonds Rehabilitation, Captured by Anastasiya Homes
What is Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)?
Luxury Vinyl Plank is a synthetic-flooring option made of multiple layers of vinyl. It is designed to mimic the look of natural wood or stone and has become immensely popular due to its affordability, scratch and water resistance.
Pros of LVP
Waterproof and High Durability: LVP is ideal for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements due to its water resistance and scratch-proof surface.
Low Maintenance: Easy to clean without having to use harsh chemicals.
Cost Effective: Typically, more budget-friendly than wood options.
Pet Friendly: Great pet friendly option due to its scratch resistant nature and ease of cleaning.
Cons of LVP
Plastic-Based: LVP is comprised of layers of plastic, meaning it is not biodegradable and can persist in landfills for centuries if you decide to take it out of your home.
Environmental Concerns: Due to its plastic composition, many LVP products emit VOCs and are difficult to recycle. If you’re considering LVP, look for FloorScore or Green Guard certifications, which ensure flooring materials meet indoor air quality standards and measure emitted VOCs.
Aesthetic Limitations: While high-quality LVP can look convincing (and looks better than previous options on the market), it lacks the true authenticity and warmth of real wood.
Environmental Impact: Let’s Talk Sustainability
If sustainability is important to you, engineered hardwood is the clear winner.
Engineered Hardwood: When sourced from sustainably managed forests (make sure to look for Forest Stewardship Council [FSC] certification), engineered hardwood is a renewable, more eco-friendly choice. It’s more biodegradable than LVP, has a longer lifespan, and ultimately reduces waste.
Luxury Vinyl Plank: Made up of non-renewable fossil fuels and incredibly difficult to recycle, LVP is not biodegradable and contributes to plastic pollution.
H2D’s Recommendation
For homeowners seeking a cohesive, timeless design—especially one inspired by Craftsman-style homes—engineered hardwood is the superior choice for main and upper floors. While LVP does have some advantages, a practical solution for certain spaces prone to moisture, it simply can’t match the authenticity, warmth, and long-term value of real wood.
Beyond aesthetics, H2D is a sustainability-focused architecture and design firm, and when choosing engineered hardwood this supports a more natural and eco-conscious approach to home design. By selecting products with FSC certification and low-VOC finishes, you can further reduce your environmental impact and fill your home with natural materials that honors both craftsmanship and sustainability.