LVT versus Engineered Wood: Which Should You Choose?
Proper hardwood floors are very pricey, therefore consumers opt for substitutes such as LVT flooring and engineered wood. However, this raises the question of whether alternative is superior.
In this essay, I will discuss the LVT vs engineered wood argument so that you can understand both flooring kinds, their benefits and drawbacks, and eventually find a high-quality yet economical alternative to real hardwood planks.
Understanding LVT (luxury vinyl tiles).
What is LVT flooring?
Luxury vinyl tiles are a type of flooring produced mostly from PVC that is designed to resemble genuine hardwood or stone floors. They are available in tile or plank configurations, in a wide variety of colors and designs, and are both sturdy and water resistant.
Advantages of LVT Flooring:
LVT flooring looks amazing, and the wide variety of colours and styles is a huge advantage. We sell brands such as Luvanto and Karndean, which come in beige, brown, and grey to simulate stone, parquet, and a broad selection of woods.
These tiles and planks are also much easier to install than carpets and true wood flooring, and in the case of click LVT, you may do it yourself without any adhesive. LVT flooring is also water-resistant, making it ideal for places with high moisture content such as bathrooms.
Limitations of LVT Flooring.
Despite its brightness, LVT flooring often has a shorter lifespan than engineered and solid wood floors. Repairs are also difficult since they need the removal of individual planks or tiles, which can take time and disrupt the floor’s layout.
Best Use Cases for LVT
LVT can be used anywhere! There isn’t a room in your house that you couldn’t possibly use. It works well in living rooms and kitchens, and the protective top layers with UV protection make it ideal for conservatories as well. In terms of versatility, LVT outperforms engineered wood.
Exploring Engineered Wood Flooring.
What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood seeks to give a real wood floor at a considerably lower price than solid hardwood flooring. How is this done? Engineered wood planks feature a top and bottom layer of real wood, while the core is made up of layers of cheap plywood. The end result looks amazing, and there are a variety of styles, wood types, and quality levels available, just like with LVT.
Advantages of Engineered Wood Flooring.
Engineered wood looks more lifelike than LVT flooring since it is made of genuine wood! As a result, if you prefer realism, this is the finest option. Compared to solid wood floors, it is more resistant to moisture and humidity.
Engineered wood is typicallyless expensive than solid wood, yet prices vary and there are numerous grades of engineered wood quality.
Drawbacks of Engineered Wood Flooring
The obvious disadvantage of engineered wood is that it is not solid wood flooring and does not have the same quality as hardwood flooring. The internal plywood layers degrade quality. Furthermore, depending on the quality, it can cost as much as solid wood, so it is not a cheap option. It’s also more difficult to maintain and prone to wear and tear, scratches, and dents.
Ideal Applications for Engineered Wood
Engineered wood flooring is best suited for places with low foot traffic and calmer rooms, such as studies, sitting rooms, and bedrooms. This is due to the heightened sensitivity to scratches and dents. It is not as ideal for bathrooms or rooms with high moisture levels as LVT flooring, but it performs better in these environments than solid wood.
Key Considerations When Choosing Between LVT and Engineered Wood.
When comparing LVT with engineered wood, there are some essential elements that can help you decide which is the better option:
Budget.
Time restrictions.
Durability.
Longevity.
Often, money is the decisive issue, and if you want an affordable product that is still of great quality, LVT flooring is the preferable option. You will save per square meter when compared to engineered wood, but the quality will be diminished.
Next, consider time limitations; if you’re working against the clock, LVT is the best option. It is well-known for its ease of installation, and options such as LVT click flooring do not require adhesive and can be installed over a variety of subfloor types.
Durability and longevity are also important considerations, and in this case, we have a tie. Although LVT flooring is more robust and resistant to wear and tear, engineered wood flooring has a longer lifespan and is more comparable to real hardwood flooring.