Hardwood Floor vs. Vinyl Floor: Which One is Better?

Flooring is an essential part of any home, and the choices made will affect both the look of the home and how well it functions. There are many options on the market, and it can be hard to decide which one is right for your home.

For floor installation, homeowners look for different types of flooring materials, such as hardwood, carpet, tile, and vinyl. While all of these elements have their own perks, hardwood, and vinyl floors are two of the most popular choices.

They are both durable, easy to clean, and come in various colors and styles. But which one is the better choice? The choice depends on different factors, including the cost, personal taste, and the room's function.

What Is Vinyl Flooring?

Vinyl flooring is one of the most popular types of artificial flooring. When creating it, manufacturers use a mixture of natural and synthetic materials, such as PVC, resin, and limestone. After that, they print a design on the flooring or add a protective layer with natural hardwood markings.

The two most common types of vinyl floors are luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and vinyl roll. They come in the same materials but differ in the process of manufacturing. Homeowners prefer vinyl flooring over other types of floors because it is easy to install, durable and affordable. Don't confuse vinyl flooring with laminate flooring. While they look similar, they are distinct in materials and features.

What Is Hardwood Flooring?

Hardwood flooring is made of hardwood. The three most common types of hardwood used for flooring are maple, oak, and cherry. The wood is cut into planks and then finished with a sealant. There is no mixture of different materials in this flooring, as it is 100% natural.

Across the world, homeowners have considered hardwood floors to be the epitome of high-class and luxury. Even now, in the 21st century, hardwood floors are still associated with wealth, sophistication, and prestige. The versatility and undeniable visual appeal of hardwood floors make them a popular choice for many homeowners.

Also, if you wish to make a profit in the future by selling your property, then a house with hardwood floors will attract more buyers.

Vinyl Flooring Vs. Hardwood: The Main Differences

Are you looking to set up new flooring in your home but can't decide between hardwood and vinyl? Here are the key differences between these two types of flooring to help you make a decision.

Environmental Friendliness

If you want an eco-friendly option, then hardwood flooring is the way to go. Hardwood is a natural product that comes from trees. It can be repurposed or recycled at the end of its life. You can choose a low-VOC hardwood floor finish to reduce the environmental impact further. When your home repair service professionals visit to refinish the floors, reclaimed wood can be used to give the floors a new lease of life.

Vinyl floors are not as eco-friendly as hardwood. The PVC in vinyl floors can release harmful chemicals into the air and environment. They cannot be reclaimed or recycled once they reach the end of their life, contributing to landfill waste.

Installation

One of the main benefits of vinyl flooring is that it is very easy to install, even for a novice. You can find vinyl floors in tiles or planks that snap together, making the installation process quick and easy.

Hardwood floors are a bit more difficult to install. You will need to hire an expert to do the job. Local handyman services are the best way to get the job done. The process is also time-consuming as each plank needs to be nailed or glued down. If the floor level is not even, the installation process can be even more challenging.

During the process, it has to create an expansion gap around the room's perimeter to allow for the wood to enlarge and contract with changes in temperature and humidity.

Aesthetics And Appearance

Appearance is an integral factor to consider when choosing the floor.

Hardwood floors have a classic and sophisticated look as they are manufactured from natural wood. You can choose from various wood species, finishes, and stains to create the perfect look for your home. Hardwood floors come in black, gray, brown, and white colors. You can opt from a variety of finishes, such as glossy, matte, or distressed.

Manufacturers dye the exterior vinyl layer to create a realistic wood look. The topcoat is then printed with a design that imitates natural wood's grain, color, and texture. Some manufacturers add embossing to enhance the realism further. Hardwood flooring is louder than vinyl when walked on and can be scratched or dented if heavy objects are dropped because it lacks a protective wear layer.

Maintenance And Cleaning

Homeowners do agree that hardwood floors are complicated to maintain. They require regular sweeping and mopping to remove dirt and dust. You will also need to clean them with a special hardwood cleaner once a week to keep them looking their best. You should also avoid walking on hardwood floors with shoes, which can scuff the surface.

Vinyl floors are much easier to clean and maintain. Sweep them regularly with a soft broom to remove dirt and dust. You can also mop them with warm water and a mild detergent. If there are any spills or stains, wipe them up immediately as vinyl is susceptible to staining. Some vinyl floors come with a wear layer that makes them resistant to scratches and scuffs.

Repair

Hardwood floors can be fixed if they become damaged, and the boards can be sanded down and refinished. You will need to call a professional who has vast experience to do the job. For even minor repairs, hiring a handyman is beneficial as they will have the right tools and experience to do the job.

Vinyl floors are not as easy to repair. The damaged area will have to be cut out and replaced with a new piece. It is a tricky and messy job.

Durability

Vinyl flooring is more durable than hardwood. It is resistant to scratches, scuffs, and dents. The wear layer also protects it from stains and spills. Vinyl floors can last up to years with proper care and maintenance.

Hardwood floors are not as durable as vinyl. They can be scratched or dented by heavy furniture. They are also susceptible to water damage. Hardwood floors need to be refinished every few years to keep them looking their best.

Water Resistance

The perk of vinyl flooring is that it is water-resistant. This makes it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Water spills will not damage the floor, and you can clean and mop them up quickly.

Hardwood floors are not water-resistant. If they become wet, they can warp or swell. Continuous moisture exposure can also lead to mold and mildew growth. Although repairing or replacing hardwood floors is expensive, it is still a popular choice for many homeowners.

Cost

People choose vinyl flooring because it is a more affordable option. The initial cost of vinyl flooring is lower than hardwood. When choosing wide plank flooring, you will have to factor in the cost of installation and materials.

The initial cost of hardwood flooring is higher than vinyl. But, it can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. Hardwood floors also add to the resale value of your home. Call handyman services to estimate the cost of installing hardwood floors and vinyl flooring in your home. Think about your budget and the look you want to achieve before making a final decision.

Which One Is the Best Choice?

While choosing between hardwood and vinyl flooring, it is important to consider your budget and the look you want to achieve. The best flooring choice depends on your needs and preferences. If you are looking for a more affordable option, then vinyl flooring would be the best choice. But, if you want a floor that will last for many years and increase the resale value of your home, then hardwood is the better choice.

When it comes to home repair service and maintenance, hiring a professional is always the best option. Handyman service in Corpus Christi is there to provide you with an estimate for the cost of installing hardwood floors and vinyl flooring in your home.