Hardwood vs. Luxury Vinyl Plank: What’s Better for Your Denver Home?

Choosing the perfect flooring for your home is more than just a design decision. It’s a long-term investment that affects everything from your home’s value to daily comfort and maintenance. Two of the most popular choices for Colorado homeowners are hardwood and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). But which one is right for your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic?

Let’s break it down.

Appearance and Style

Hardwood
Nothing beats the natural beauty and rich character of real wood. Each plank has unique grain patterns and color variations that bring warmth and authenticity to any space. Hardwood flooring is timeless, elegant, and adds a high-end touch to your home.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Modern LVP mimics the look of hardwood with incredible detail. Many styles even include textured finishes and beveled edges for a realistic wood-like feel. While not real wood, LVP comes in a wider variety of colors, patterns, and finishes—ideal for achieving a specific style or matching existing decor.

Verdict: If authenticity is your priority, hardwood wins. If versatility in design is more important, LVP is the way to go.

Durability and Maintenance

Hardwood
Hardwood is strong but can be vulnerable to scratches, dents, and water damage—especially in high-traffic or pet-friendly homes. It needs occasional refinishing to maintain its appearance but can last for decades when properly maintained.

LVP
LVP is built for resilience. It’s scratch-resistant, waterproof, and handles heavy foot traffic with ease. Perfect for homes with pets, kids, or high activity. Plus, it’s easy to clean—just sweep and mop with mild cleaner.

Verdict: LVP takes the win for busy households or moisture-prone areas like kitchens, entryways, or basements.

Cost and Installation

Hardwood
Real hardwood flooring is a premium product. Material and installation costs are higher due to the labor-intensive process. However, it adds significant resale value to your home and is considered a long-term investment.

LVP
Luxury vinyl is more budget-friendly and easier to install. Many planks are designed with click-lock systems, reducing labor time and cost. Great for fast turnarounds or homeowners wanting a high-end look without the premium price tag.

Verdict: LVP is the best choice for cost-conscious homeowners or those remodeling on a timeline.

Comfort and Noise

Hardwood
Hardwood floors are sturdy underfoot and feel solid and warm in most conditions. With area rugs or proper subflooring, they can be both comfortable and quiet.

LVP
Vinyl planks offer a softer, more cushioned feel. Many options include an attached underlayment that reduces sound and improves walking comfort, which is especially helpful in multi-story homes.

Verdict: LVP offers more comfort and noise reduction without the need for additional materials.

Sustainability and Resale Value

Hardwood
As a natural product, hardwood is eco-friendly when sourced responsibly. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, extending its life. Plus, it’s a major selling point for buyers looking for timeless, high-quality finishes.

LVP
While many LVP options are made with recycled materials and low-VOC finishes, it isn’t biodegradable and can’t be refinished. However, it still boosts home value thanks to its modern appeal and low maintenance.

Verdict: Hardwood is better for long-term resale and sustainability. LVP is still a strong contender for those seeking convenience.

Which One is Right for You?

FactorHardwoodLuxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)AppearanceNatural, timelessRealistic, customizableDurabilityGood, needs careExcellent, low-maintenanceWater ResistanceLowHighCostHigherMore affordableComfortFirm, warmSoft, cushionedResale ValueExcellentModerate to good

Let Us Help You Decide

Still unsure? The team at Step By Step Floors Colorado is here to help. We offer expert consultations to walk you through material samples, performance differences, and price points so you can make the best choice for your space.

📞 Call us at (720) 331-9374
📧 Email: info@stepbystepfloorscolorado.com
🌐 www.stepbystepfloorscolorado.com

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