Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) has improved dramatically, and many homeowners now ask whether it can replace hardwood. As a company that installs both hardwood and luxury vinyl, we'll give you the honest answer.
Looks
Real hardwood is, well, real — its grain, depth, and the way it ages are genuinely unique. High-end LVP looks remarkably convincing today, with realistic embossing and varied plank patterns, but up close a discerning eye can still tell the difference. For pure beauty and authenticity, hardwood wins.
Water Resistance
This is vinyl's biggest advantage. Quality LVP is 100% waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Hardwood is sensitive to moisture and is not recommended below grade. If water resistance is your top priority, vinyl is the clear choice.
Durability
LVP resists scratches, dents, and moisture extremely well, which makes it superb for high-traffic and pet-friendly homes. Hardwood can scratch and dent — but here's the key difference: hardwood can be sanded and refinished to look new again, while damaged vinyl must be replaced. Hardwood is repairable; vinyl is not.
Comfort and Feel
Hardwood feels solid and substantial underfoot. LVP over a good underlay is comfortable too, and warmer than tile, but it doesn't have the same solid feel as nailed-down hardwood.
Cost
LVP generally costs less than hardwood, both in material and installation. It's a budget-friendly way to get a wood look. Hardwood is a larger investment — but one that can last generations.
Resale Value
Hardwood remains a stronger selling point in the Toronto market, particularly on main floors. LVP is increasingly accepted, especially in condos and basements, but hardwood still carries more prestige with buyers.
When We Recommend Each
We recommend hardwood for main living areas where beauty and resale matter, and for homeowners who value a lifetime floor. We recommend LVP for basements, condos (see our condo flooring page and a downtown condo project), kitchens, bathrooms, rental units, and busy pet households. Many downtown Toronto condo owners choose LVP for its water resistance and quiet underlay options.
Get Expert Guidance
Both are great floors — the right one depends on the room and your goals. Book a free consultation and we'll bring samples of both so you can compare them side by side.