Hardwood vs Laminate vs Vinyl Flooring
by Anonymous
Flooring material choice balances budget, durability, and aesthetics. Hardwood floors last 50-100 years with refinishing and boost resale value, but cost $8-$15/sq ft installed. Luxury vinyl plank has become the value champion at $3-$7/sq ft with waterproof performance. Laminate splits the difference on price but cannot be refinished and lacks water resistance.
Hardwood
$8-$15
installed cost per sq ft
Poor (warps with moisture)
water resistance
50-100 years (refinishable)
lifespan
Highest
resale value
Living areas, long-term homes
best for
Laminate
$2-$5
installed cost per sq ft
Low (swells with water)
water resistance
10-20 years (not refinishable)
lifespan
Low
resale value
Budget renovations, dry rooms
best for
Vinyl (LVP)
$3-$7
installed cost per sq ft
Excellent (100% waterproof)
water resistance
15-25 years (not refinishable)
lifespan
Moderate
resale value
Kitchens, bathrooms, basements
best for
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