Hardwood vs. LVP: What homeowners need to know before renovating

May 14, 2025

When planning a high-end home renovation, one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make is your choice of flooring. For many Cape Cod homeowners, the decision often comes down to luxury vinyl plank (LVP) vs. hardwood. Both are beautiful, functional, and versatile – but they offer very difference experiences in terms of aesthetic, longevity, maintenance and value.

If you’re stuck between the two, this guide will walk you through the pros and cons of each, so you can confidently choose what aligns best with your lifestyle, investment goals, and design vision.

Aesthetic and feel

Hardwood: There’s no substitute for the warmth, depth and organic beauty of real wood. Each plank is unique, with natural grain patterns and subtle variations that add depth and authenticity.

Pro: Unmatched beauty and character
Pro: High end, timeless appeal
Con: Can dent or scratch easily with pets, heels or moving furniture

LVP: Today’s luxury vinyl planking looks shockingly realistic- often mimicking white oak, walnut or reclaimed wood with impressive accuracy. It doesn’t feel exactly like wood underfoot, but it’s warmer and softer than tile.
Pro: Wide range of wood-look styles, including designer options
Pro: Consistent visual patterning for a clean modern look

Con: Lacks the “true wood” touch and legacy feel of hardwood

Durability and lifestyle

Hardwood: While solid wood can last decades, it’s vulnerable to scratches, moisture and sunlight. In homes with kids, pets or high humidity (hello Cape Cod summers), it needs careful maintenance.

Pro: Can be refinished multiple times
Con: Susceptible to warping from moisture or improper installation
Con: Not ideal for basements of beachside mudrooms

LVP shines in durability. It’s waterproof, scratch-resistant and holds up well in sandy, humid, or pet filled homes.

Pro: Perfect for coastal homes and high traffic areas

Pro: Worry free- no warping, cupping or refinishing needed

Con: Can’t be refinished- once it’s damaged, it’s replaced

resale value and roi

Hardwood: Still considered the gold standard in luxury homes, hardwood can increase your resale value and attract buyers who appreciate authenticity.

Pro: Adds long term value in high end markets

Pro: Signals craftsmanship and quality

Con: Higher upfront investment

LVP: Buyers appreciate its low maintenance nature, especially in vacation homes or rentals. While it doesn’t carry the same cachet as hardwood, high quality LVP can still look high end.

Pro: Great ROI in the right spaces (basement, rentals, family areas)

Con: May not add as much value as real wood in luxury homes

cost and installation

Hardwood: Cost $8 – $15+ per sq. ft (plus install)
Installation- must be nailed or glued, acclimation time required
Refinishing adds future cost but extends the lifespan

LVP: Cost $4 – $7 per sq. ft (plus install)

Installation- click lock or glue down, fast and easy

Low labor costs and minimal prep time

Best use cases for each

Choose hardwood if you:
– want a legacy material that adds long term value
– love the natural texture and depth of real wood
– are building a primary or forever home
– are prepared to maintain and refinish over time.

Choose LVP if you:

– have pets, kids or renters

– want a waterproof, stress free solution

– are renovating a vacation home or basement

– want the look of wood without the upkeep

final takeaway

Both hardwood and LVP can be excellent choices- but the right one depends on how you live, where the floor will go, and what kind of investment you’re making into your property.

If you’re working on a Cape Cod renovation or second home project and want expert design guidance, we’d love to help you evaluate your options- both in style and performance – to ensure your home looks stunning and lives beautifully.