Blog > Wide Plank LVP vs Hardwood: Pros and Cons of LVP vs Hardwood

Wide Plank LVP vs Hardwood: Pros and Cons of LVP vs Hardwood

Monday, July 07, 2025

Considering Wide Plank LVP or Hardwood? You’re Not Alone.

If you’ve been dreaming of upgrading your floors but can’t decide between the warm, timeless look of hardwood and the durable, budget-friendly appeal of luxury vinyl plank (LVP), we get it. It’s one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners walking into our showrooms in Ephrata and Myerstown, PA.

And lately? Everyone’s talking about wide plank styles—whether it’s real wood or the stunning LVP alternatives.

Let’s break it down so you can feel confident about which is best for your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.

What Is Wide Plank Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)?

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is a durable, multi-layered synthetic flooring that mimics the look and feel of hardwood. The “wide plank” version features boards that are typically 7 inches or wider—giving rooms a more open, seamless feel.

Here’s why people love it:

• It’s waterproof a game-changer for kitchens, basements, laundry rooms, and even bathrooms.
• It’s scratch- and dent-resistant, ideal for families with kids, pets, or high traffic.
• It clicks together easily, making installations faster and less expensive.

“We recently helped a family in Ephrata replace their old carpet with wide plank LVP throughout the main level. They said their floors look beautiful.”

What About Traditional Hardwood Flooring?

Hardwood floors are made from real wood—solid or engineered—and are known for their natural beauty and long-term value. You can sand and refinish them multiple times over the years, which adds to their appeal.

They’re especially popular in living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms, were elegance and longevity matter most.

Hardwood is an investment, both in style and cost—but for many homeowners, it’s well worth it.

Side-by-Side Comparison: LVP vs Hardwood

Pros of Wide Plank LVP Flooring

1. Waterproof and Worry-Free
   

Great for any space that sees spills, wet boots, or muddy paws. We’ve installed LVP in mudrooms tofinished basements and everything in between, and our customers love how stress-free it feels.

1. Stylish & Versatile
   

Wide planks make small rooms feel larger and more modern. With options like white oak, weathered barnwood, and warm walnut, there’s a style for every design palette.

1. Easy Installation
   

Click-lock systems make it quick and easy for many customers to even take on LVP as a DIY project (though we’re always here to help if you want professional installation!).

1. Budget-Friendly
   

You’ll typically spend 30–50% less on LVP than hardwood. That makes it ideal if you’re redoing multiple rooms or renovating them on a timeline.

Cons of Wide Plank LVP

• It’s not real wood (which may matter to some homebuyers)
• Cannot be refinished—once it's worn out, it must be replaced
• May not boost your home’s appraised value as much as hardwood

Pros of Traditional Hardwood Floors

1. Adds Long-Term Value
   

Hardwood is a timeless investment. It adds resale value and appeal to homes across Lancaster, Lebanon and Berks County. Realtors love to feature hardwood in listings.

1. Gorgeous Natural Texture
   

There’s nothing quite like the unique grain of real oak, hickory, or maple. It adds warmth and character you can’t fully replicate with vinyl.

1. Re-finishable for Decades
   

Have a scratch? You can sand it down and re-stain it. Hardwood gives you the flexibility to refresh your floors instead of replacing them.

Cons of Hardwood Flooring

• Not waterproof—prone to warping in high humidity or moisture-prone rooms
• Scratches and dents more easily from kids, pets, or furniture
• Higher cost and more complex installation
• Regular maintenance required (sweeping, polishing, refinishing)

“A couple from Myerstown recently came in looking for wood floors but changed course after their dog had scratched up their old oak. They chose a rustic-look LVP that gave them the wood aesthetic without the stress—and they’ve been thrilled ever since.”

Which Flooring Is Right for Your Home?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but here’s a good rule of thumb:

See the Difference for Yourself at Nolt’s Floor Covering

Whether you’re leaning toward the real thing or exploring the wide world of LVP, we’re here to help guide your decision.

We’re a local, family-owned flooring store with decades of experience helping homeowners in Ephrata, Myerstown, and beyond find the perfect fit. We offer:

• Free in-home estimates
• Samples you can take home
• Full-service installation
• Showrooms with dozens of wide plank LVP and hardwood options

“Making your flooring dreams come true!”

Ready to Choose the Perfect Floor?

Stop by our Ephrata or Myerstown showroom and see the difference for yourself. Whether you’re remodeling a bathroom, updating a business, or building your forever home, we’ll help you find a floor that fits your needs and budget—without the pressure.

➡️ Stop by our showrooms in Ephrata or Myerstown to see these stunning floors in person

📍 Ephrata, PA– 609 North State St., Ephrata PA 17522 (717) 733-5503

📍 Myerstown, PA– 400 West Lincoln Ave., Myerstown PA 17067 (717) 866-6186

➡️ Or schedule a free consultation — we’ll bring the samples to you!

Let’s find the perfect floor for your home or business — and make your flooring dreams come true!

Happy flooring – Nolt’s Floor Covering

Making your flooring dreams come true!