PNW Homeowners: Choosing the Right Flooring—Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood vs. LVP vs. Laminate


 

Tacoma Homeowners: Choosing the Right Flooring—Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood vs. LVP vs. Laminate

When it comes to home design, flooring sets the tone. Whether you're preparing to sell your Tacoma home, updating your Seattle forever place, or renovating an investment property in Federal Way, choosing the right flooring is a decision that impacts resale value, aesthetic, and function. Let’s break down four popular flooring types—hardwood, engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), and laminate—with a focus on price, durability, longevity, variety, and maintenance.

  1. Hardwood Flooring

Real hardwoods are the most beautiful yet require the most maintenance. 

Price: Hardwood is the most premium option, ranging from $8 to $15+ per square foot for materials alone. Installation costs can push the total to $12–$20 per square foot.

Durability: Very durable, but sensitive to moisture. Dents and scratches can occur in high-traffic areas or homes with pets.

Longevity: With proper care, solid hardwood can last over 100 years. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times.

Variety: Offers classic beauty and rich tones with many wood species (oak, maple, walnut). Each plank is unique.

Maintenance: Requires regular sweeping and occasional refinishing. Water spills must be cleaned immediately to avoid warping.

2. Engineered Hardwood

Utilizing a real wood veneer instead of being solid hardwood throughout. 

Price: Slightly more affordable than solid hardwood at $6 to $12 per square foot. Installation costs are also lower in some cases.

Durability: More stable than hardwood in humid conditions like Tacoma’s rainy winters. Still prone to scratches and dents.

Longevity: Can last 20–40 years depending on the wear layer. Some can be refinished once or twice.

Variety: Comes in wide planks and modern finishes. You get the look of hardwood with a bit more flexibility.

Maintenance: Similar to hardwood—sweep regularly and use a damp mop sparingly. Avoid standing water.

3. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

Many homes are opting for this product because of it’s durability and doesn’t warp under moisture.

Price: Affordable and versatile, LVP costs $3 to $7 per square foot. Installation is DIY-friendly, saving labor costs.

Durability: Highly durable and waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Great for households with kids or pets.

Longevity: Can last 15–25 years depending on quality and care.

Variety: Wide range of colors, styles, and textures—many mimic real hardwood convincingly.

Maintenance: Very low-maintenance. Sweep and mop with mild cleaners. Moisture is not an issue.

4. Laminate Flooring

Least expensive and least durable option often used in rental homes. 

Price: Budget-friendly at $1 to $5 per square foot. Installation is also economical.

Durability: Durable and resistant to scratches. However, it's not waterproof—water exposure can cause warping.

Longevity: Typically lasts 10–20 years, but not designed for long-term refinishing or heavy moisture exposure.

Variety: Offers good variety in wood-look options and finishes, but not quite as realistic as LVP or hardwood.

Maintenance: Easy to clean, but water should be avoided. Use laminate-safe products to prevent surface damage.


What’s Right for Your Seattle/Tacoma Area Home?

Every home is different. If you’re renovating a Craftsman in North Tacoma, restoring hardwood may be worth the investment. For a rental in South End or Hilltop, LVP may be the smarter choice. And if you’re prepping your home for market, flooring updates can seriously boost your property’s appeal and value.

If you’re unsure which flooring option is best for your budget and goals, I’m here to help.

Call or text me anytime at (206) 643-8845 for local, expert advice on flooring, remodeling, and maximizing your home’s value.


#TacomaRealEstate, #TacomaHomes, #TacomaLiving, #TacomaWA, #TacomaRealtor, #TacomaFlooring, #HardwoodFloors, #EngineeredHardwood, #LuxuryVinylPlank, #LaminateFlooring, #TacomaHomeUpgrades, #TacomaInteriors, #HomeValueTacoma, #TacomaRenovation, #HomeSellingTips, #PacificNorthwestHomes, #FlooringComparison, #TacomaHomeDesign, #RealEstateAdvice, #TacomaBroker


Location: Tacoma, WA, USA

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