Have you ever wondered why hardwood is the preferred flooring material for so many homeowners? Let’s take a closer look and understand why hardwood flooring is widely considered a better option than luxury vinyl tile (LVT). Here are three important distinctions every homeowner should know:
1. Durability
Hardwood is one of nature’s toughest materials, making it capable of withstanding heavy traffic and everyday wear and tear effortlessly. When installed correctly, hardwood floors can last for more than 50 years, providing long-lasting value for your investment. A popular feature of using LVT is its durability. While it may seem durable initially, its plastic layers and coatings are more susceptible to scratching compared to hardwood or tile floors. Within 10-15 years, visible scratches, dents, fading, and peeling are likely to appear on LVT, diminishing both its esthetic appeal and functional performance. Unlike hardwood floors, LVT’s thin wear layer cannot be refinished to restore the original look. Once the wear layer is damaged, it is typically necessary to replace large sections of flooring to repair.
2. Sustainability
Hardwood flooring is a more environmentally friendly option compared to luxury vinyl tiles. This is because hardwood comes from renewable resources and supports sustainable forestry practices. Hardwood trees are replanted to ensure a continuous supply of wood, minimizing the environmental impact. On the other hand, LVT has a significant carbon footprint due to the use of virgin plastics and petrochemicals in its manufacturing process. Being primarily made of non-renewable plastics and synthetics, it cannot biodegrade at the end of its lifespan. Once discarded, LVT remains intact for centuries in landfills, causing ongoing pollution. In contrast, hardwood flooring has the lowest carbon footprint among all flooring options. It is a natural and renewable resource that can biodegrade at the end of its life, reducing waste and environmental impact.
3. Value
Hardwood floors possess a timeless allure that enhances both the character and value of your home. They have an enduring appeal that synthetic flooring struggles to match. Potential buyers are well aware that hardwood floors reflect quality craftsmanship and upgrade a home. Studies show that hardwood floors can increase a home’s value by up to 12%. Conversely, LVT fails to yield the same effect on home values, often appearing “cheap” and “outdated”. When it comes time to sell your home, having hardwood floors will help you attract more buyers and command a higher selling price.
At TH Custom Hardwood, we’re passionate about helping our customers find the perfect flooring option for their home or business. Come visit us today to find out why hardwood is the best choice!
