Written by Tim Gaughan, Urban Edge. Published March 2, 2026.
LVP handles water, dogs and basements better than hardwood and costs less to install; hardwood feels and sounds like real wood, can be sanded and refinished for decades, and suits older Portland houses. Hardwood can be refinished; LVP can't, so when LVP wears out, it gets replaced.
Side by side
| Luxury vinyl plank | Solid hardwood | Engineered wood |
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| Water | Resists spills and damp; many are waterproof | Damaged by standing water | Better than solid; still wood on top |
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| Scratches | Resists most; can't be repaired by sanding | Scratches, but can be refinished | Can be refinished a limited number of times |
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| Feel and sound | Softer, can sound hollow | Solid, warm | Close to solid |
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| Lifespan | Replace when worn | Many decades with refinishing | Long, depending on the wear layer |
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| Basements | Good | Not recommended | Sometimes, with the right prep |
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| Older houses | Fine; may not match the character | Matches original floors | Good match, more stable |
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Which rooms suit which
- Kitchens, baths, laundry, basements, mudrooms: LVP, or tile.
- Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms: hardwood or engineered wood if you want the look and feel of wood; LVP if dogs, kids or budget lead.
- Older Portland houses with original fir or oak: often the best floor is the one already there, refinished.
What both need
A flat, solid subfloor. LVP shows every dip and bump underneath, and hardwood squeaks and gaps over a weak one. Read why subfloor prep matters.
How to choose
Ask three questions: Will this room see water? Do you have pets? How long will you stay? Water or pets point to LVP; a long stay and a wish to refinish point to wood. Engineered wood sits between.
Remodeling a kitchen or bath at the same time? Our Kitchen & Bath site covers that work.
Our work is covered by a 2-year workmanship warranty, in writing.
Book a free measure or call Tim, (503) 597-8520.