LVT vs Hardwood — A GTA Homeowner's Honest Comparison
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) have exploded in popularity across the GTA. Today's LVT genuinely looks like hardwood, feels warm underfoot, and outperforms hardwood in several key areas. But hardwood still has real advantages that matter. Here's the honest comparison.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Water Resistance — LVT wins
LVT is 100% waterproof. Hardwood is vulnerable to moisture; spills left too long will damage the finish and can warp planks. For kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements, LVT is the clear choice.
Durability — LVT wins for scratches
The wear layer on quality LVT resists scratches from pets, kids, and dropped items better than most hardwood finishes. However, LVT can be gouged in a way that hardwood can be sanded out.
Feel and Sound — Hardwood wins
Nothing quite replicates the feeling of real wood underfoot. Quality LVT with a good underlayment comes close, but experienced homeowners can tell the difference.
Cost — LVT wins upfront
Quality LVT runs $4–$9 per sq ft installed in the GTA. Comparable hardwood runs $9–$20+ per sq ft installed. Over a 2,000 sq ft main floor, that's a $10,000–$20,000 difference.
Longevity — Hardwood wins long-term
A solid hardwood floor can last 80–100 years with proper care and periodic refinishing. LVT typically lasts 15–25 years before it must be replaced entirely — no refinishing option exists.
Resale Value — Hardwood wins
In Richmond Hill, Markham, and Vaughan real estate listings, "hardwood floors throughout" is still a notable selling point that LVT doesn't match.
Our Recommendation
For wet areas and basements: LVT, no question. For main living areas where budget allows: hardwood or engineered hardwood for long-term value. For full-home renovations on a budget: LVT throughout gives you a beautiful, consistent look at a fraction of the cost. Come see both side by side at our Richmond Hill showroom.
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M3 Flooring has been serving Richmond Hill, Aurora, Newmarket, Toronto, Vaughan, Markham and the GTA since 2002. Get a free, no-obligation estimate today.
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