Luxury Vinyl Tile Hunterdon County – Choosing the right flooring for your home is important because it has to match your home’s style, your lifestyle and your budget. That’s why the research phase of your journey is crucial. It may seem daunting at first to choose between luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and hardwood flooring. After all, they both have many benefits and drawbacks. Let’s go over some of the pros and cons of LVT vs. hardwood.
Style
When it comes to style, hardwood flooring has set the bar for many years as the gold standard in timeless beauty. After all, hardwood comes in a variety of colors, qualities and styles. While the look and feel of hardwood can’t be beat in terms of overall value, there are some drawbacks, such as high cost, high maintenance and limited availability of wood species. Luxury vinyl tile, on the other hand, has come a long way in terms of beauty and versatility. Today, through the use of 3D technology, digital photography and image editing/manipulation, luxury vinyl tile can mimic the look of natural wood and stone at a fraction of the price. Advanced printing techniques can also pave the way for wear layer texturization, which means not only does your flooring look authentic, it feels real too.
Durability
Durability refers to the hardness of the flooring, while stability refers to the ability of flooring to hold its shape and size against moisture or climate changes. Hardwood flooring doesn’t score as well in these categories as other types. That’s because it’s porous by nature, and is therefore susceptible to moisture damage. Sure, you can apply a thick polyurethane coating but it’s not realistic for commercial or high-traffic floors due to the need for regular removal and reapplication. Luxury vinyl floors, on the other hand, are moisture resistant, plus they boast a very hard, durable wear layer with warranties that can last up to 20 years. These factors make LVT a durable, stable choice.
Environmental Impact
Hardwood comes from trees, which are indeed a renewable resource; however, one must take into account that deforestation rates far outpace efforts to replant and regrow forests of new trees. LVT is a synthetic material, to be sure, but it’s also made from up to 50% recycled material and is 100% recyclable.
Cost
Cost is where hardwood flooring meets its detractors. That’s because it’s more expensive than LVT, commanding about $8–$25/sq. ft. vs. $2–$5/sq. ft. for luxury vinyl. Hardwood flooring’s high price tag is the mitigating factor in the decision of many homeowners to use it in their home. Many people do prefer the look and feel of hardwood floors, plus they know it increases the value of their home, which is why many install it when looking to sell their house in the near future. Asking price can be increased when hardwood flooring is present, especially throughout the home.
Luxury Vinyl Tile Hunterdon County – The decision between hardwood flooring and LVT is not a decision to be taken lightly. Do your research before settling on which one is best for you. Need help? Call Carpet Heritage – Luxury Vinyl Tile Hunterdon County for assistance from our professionals.
