At first glance, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Hardwood Flooring™ (LHF™) can look remarkably similar. That’s the point—LVP is designed to mimic real wood so closely that many homeowners don’t spot the difference until much later.
But don’t be fooled.
When you check beneath the surface, the differences between these two flooring types are dramatic—and important. From sustainability to long-term value, LHF™ offers distinct advantages that go far beyond appearance.
The Surface Deceives—Here’s What’s Beneath
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) uses synthetic layers—typically a printed vinyl top layer over PVC-based cores. While it imitates the look of hardwood well, it’s still a plastic-based product made from fossil fuels and chemical stabilizers, often imported from overseas.
In contrast, Luxury Hardwood Flooring™ (LHF) is made from real, natural hardwood—sourced sustainably from managed forests and free of synthetic fillers or plastics. It’s a floor you can feel good about in every sense. Plus, natural hardwood flooring is the only flooring option that has consistently and traditionally increased a home’s value.
Why Choose Luxury Hardwood Flooring™ (LHF)
🌱 Truly Renewable and Sustainable
Hardwood is the only renewable flooring material. Unlike LVP, which will eventually end up in a landfill, LHF™ is biodegradable and environmentally responsible—perfect for eco-conscious homeowners.
🚛 Supply Chain Safe, Tariff-Resilient
Because LHF™ is not dependent on Asian manufacturing, it avoids the risks of overseas supply chains, such as unpredictable tariffs, shipping delays, and material quality inconsistencies. That means greater stability and fewer surprises in pricing and availability.
🌎 Zero Greenhouse Emissions in Production
Natural hardwoods don’t require fossil fuels to create. In fact, they store carbon rather than emit it—making LHF™ a carbon-negative choice. LVP, on the other hand, is created using petroleum and releases greenhouse gases in both production and disposal.
When LVP Still Makes Sense
While LHF™ is ideal in most residential settings, LVP has its place—especially in wet, flood-prone environments, such as basements where the risk of standing water is high.
However, don’t count out engineered wood options. Many engineered versions of LHF™ can be installed below grade, as long as the space isn’t subject to full flooding. If moisture is only a moderate concern, LHF™ can still be a beautiful and viable solution.
Side-by-Side Comparison: LVP vs. Luxury Hardwood Flooring™ (LHF)
| Feature | Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) | Luxury Hardwood Flooring™ (LHF) |
| Surface Appearance | ❌ Realistic wood visuals | ✅ Authentic, natural wood |
| Material Composition | ❌ Plastic (PVC, foam, composites) | ✅ 100% real hardwood |
| Sustainability | ❌ Not biodegradable, petrochemical | ✅ Renewable, biodegradable, eco-safe |
| Supply Chain Stability | ❌ Vulnerable to tariffs and delays | ✅ Stable, low risk from overseas factors |
| Production Emissions | ❌ High (fossil-fuel-based) | ✅ Zero—carbon-storing natural wood |
| Air Quality / VOCs | ❌ May release VOCs | ✅ VOC-free, clean indoor air |
| Install Locations | ✅ Ideal for high-moisture areas | ✅ Most areas, including basements (engineered) |
| Durability & Lifespan | ❌ 10–20 years, not refinishable | ✅ 50–100+ years, refinished as needed |
| Reparability | ❌ Not repairable | ✅ Can be sanded, refinished, spot-repaired |
| Resale Value | ❌ Moderate | ✅ High—adds real property value |
LVP vs. LHF: Understanding the Differences
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Hardwood Flooring (LHF) are both high-end flooring options that aim to deliver a premium aesthetic. However, they differ significantly in composition, performance, and construction.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
LVP is a synthetic flooring material that mimics the appearance of wood.
Luxury Hardwood Flooring (LHF)
LHF refers to actual wood flooring and is available in solid and engineered constructions.
Final Thought: Don’t Be Fooled by the Surface
You might walk on it every day—but when you choose flooring, you’re investing in something much deeper than looks. With Luxury Hardwood Flooring™ (LHF), you get natural beauty, long-term value, and peace of mind—free from synthetics, environmental harm, or overseas supply concerns.
So next time you’re choosing between LVP and hardwood, check beneath the surface. What you see on top is just the beginning.
Want to learn more about LHF™ and whether it’s right for your space?
Explore our real hardwood collections or reach out to an AdvantageLumber expert today.
Dive deep into all of the flooring options with this LVP vs LHF™ white paper.