LVP vs. Engineered Hardwood: Which Flooring Type Fits Your Home Best?
When it comes to upgrading your floors, two materials consistently stand out — luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and engineered hardwood. Both offer beautiful wood looks, impressive durability, and modern installation options, but they differ in performance and price.
Let’s break down the differences so you can find the perfect fit for your home.
What Is LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank)?
LVP is a synthetic flooring made of several layers: a rigid core, printed image layer (that mimics real wood), and a protective wear layer.
It’s:
It’s also cost-effective and available in many natural wood visuals. Brands like Lion’s Floor offer incredibly realistic textures that rival hardwood at a fraction of the price.
What Is Engineered Hardwood?
Engineered hardwood is made of a real wood veneer layered over a stable plywood or HDF base.
It offers:
-
The authentic warmth of real wood
-
Compatibility with radiant heating
-
The ability to refinish (depending on veneer thickness)
Engineered wood is ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and spaces where you want a natural, timeless aesthetic.
Durability & Maintenance
LVP thrives in high-traffic or humid areas — it won’t warp or expand with moisture. It’s easy to clean with mild soap and water.
Engineered hardwood handles temperature changes better than solid wood but isn’t fully waterproof. Regular sweeping and occasional wood-safe cleaning keep it pristine.
Verdict: LVP wins for water resistance and low maintenance; engineered wood wins for natural authenticity.
Cost Comparison
On average:
LVP is more budget-friendly, but engineered hardwood adds home value due to its genuine wood layer.
Installation
LVP can be glue-down or click-lock, depending on the product.
Engineered hardwood often uses tongue-and-groove or floating installations.
If you’re DIY-inclined, LVP is easier to install; hardwood is best handled by professionals.
Design & Feel
Both offer incredible realism today. Wide-plank oak tones, matte finishes, and subtle grains are trending in 2025.
LVP’s textured surfaces mimic natural imperfections beautifully, while engineered hardwood’s real veneer gives unmatched depth.
Which Should You Choose?
-
For durability, pets, and moisture resistance → LVP
-
For timeless warmth, resale value, and elegance → Engineered Hardwood
Explore the Lion’s Floor LVP Collection and SK Engineered Hardwood lines to compare side-by-side.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between LVP and engineered hardwood comes down to lifestyle. If you want floors that can handle everything life throws at them, LVP is unbeatable. If you crave that authentic wood underfoot, engineered hardwood delivers timeless character.
Ready to choose your perfect floor?
Shop Floor Direct USA’s curated collections of LVP and engineered hardwood flooring to find your match.
LVP vs. Engineered Hardwood: Which Flooring Type Fits Your Home Best?
LVP vs. Engineered Hardwood: Which Flooring Type Fits Your Home Best?
When it comes to upgrading your floors, two materials consistently stand out — luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and engineered hardwood. Both offer beautiful wood looks, impressive durability, and modern installation options, but they differ in performance and price.
Let’s break down the differences so you can find the perfect fit for your home.
What Is LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank)?
LVP is a synthetic flooring made of several layers: a rigid core, printed image layer (that mimics real wood), and a protective wear layer.
It’s:
100% waterproof
Scratch-resistant
Perfect for busy households, pets, and moisture-prone areas like kitchens or bathrooms.
It’s also cost-effective and available in many natural wood visuals. Brands like Lion’s Floor offer incredibly realistic textures that rival hardwood at a fraction of the price.
What Is Engineered Hardwood?
Engineered hardwood is made of a real wood veneer layered over a stable plywood or HDF base.
It offers:
The authentic warmth of real wood
Compatibility with radiant heating
The ability to refinish (depending on veneer thickness)
Engineered wood is ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and spaces where you want a natural, timeless aesthetic.
Durability & Maintenance
LVP thrives in high-traffic or humid areas — it won’t warp or expand with moisture. It’s easy to clean with mild soap and water.
Engineered hardwood handles temperature changes better than solid wood but isn’t fully waterproof. Regular sweeping and occasional wood-safe cleaning keep it pristine.
Verdict: LVP wins for water resistance and low maintenance; engineered wood wins for natural authenticity.
Cost Comparison
On average:
LVP: $2–$5 per sq. ft. (plus installation)
Engineered Hardwood: $5–$10 per sq. ft.
LVP is more budget-friendly, but engineered hardwood adds home value due to its genuine wood layer.
Installation
LVP can be glue-down or click-lock, depending on the product.
Engineered hardwood often uses tongue-and-groove or floating installations.
If you’re DIY-inclined, LVP is easier to install; hardwood is best handled by professionals.
Design & Feel
Both offer incredible realism today. Wide-plank oak tones, matte finishes, and subtle grains are trending in 2025.
LVP’s textured surfaces mimic natural imperfections beautifully, while engineered hardwood’s real veneer gives unmatched depth.
Which Should You Choose?
For durability, pets, and moisture resistance → LVP
For timeless warmth, resale value, and elegance → Engineered Hardwood
Explore the Lion’s Floor LVP Collection and SK Engineered Hardwood lines to compare side-by-side.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between LVP and engineered hardwood comes down to lifestyle. If you want floors that can handle everything life throws at them, LVP is unbeatable. If you crave that authentic wood underfoot, engineered hardwood delivers timeless character.
Ready to choose your perfect floor?
Shop Floor Direct USA’s curated collections of LVP and engineered hardwood flooring to find your match.