Hardwood vs LVP Flooring: Cost Comparison

LVP has taken over budget and rental installs — it's waterproof, half the cost, and looks convincing. Hardwood still wins on resale and 50-year durability.

Typical range: $3,000 – $18,000 for a typical 1,000 sq ft install

Solid Hardwood

$8–$18 / sq ft

Pros

Refinishable 4–6 times
50+ year lifespan
Adds ~2.5% to home value
Timeless look

Cons

Not for basements/bathrooms
Scratches show
Humidity-sensitive
Longer install

Estimate solid hardwood cost →

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

$4–$9 / sq ft

Pros

100% waterproof
Half the cost
DIY-friendly click-lock
Kid/pet proof

Cons

Can't be refinished
20–25 year lifespan
Fades in direct sun
Feels hollow underfoot

Estimate luxury vinyl plank (lvp) cost →

Bottom line

Main living areas in a long-term home: hardwood, always. Basements, kitchens, rentals, or homes with pets/kids: LVP is the obvious pick.

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