DESIGNING YOUR HOME, CREATING YOUR WORLD
When it comes to choosing new floors, the debate always comes down to one of the most searched topics out there: hardwood vs vinyl flooring. Each option brings something unique to the table, and the best one for your home depends on your priorities, style, and space.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about hardwood vs vinyl flooring in 2025—from price to durability to room-by-room recommendations.
Hardwood flooring is made from solid wood or engineered layers of natural wood. It’s known for its timeless look, warm tones, and the ability to increase your home’s resale value. With proper care, hardwood floors can last decades and age beautifully.
Key Benefits:
For a deeper understanding of hardwood types, grades, and what makes them suitable for different spaces, check out NWFA’s guide to wood flooring—a trusted resource from the National Wood Flooring Association.
Vinyl flooring is a synthetic material made to mimic the look of natural hardwood or stone. It comes in planks (LVP), tiles, or rolls and is known for being cost-effective, water-resistant, and low maintenance.
Key Benefits:
To learn more about how vinyl flooring is tested for durability, performance, and sustainability, visit The Resilient Floor Covering Institute—the leading organization behind product standards for luxury vinyl tile, planks, and other resilient flooring options.
| Feature | Hardwood Flooring | Vinyl Flooring |
|---|---|---|
| Look & Feel | Natural, authentic, timeless | Mimics wood but synthetic feel |
| Durability | Long-lasting, refinishable | Water-resistant, scratch-resistant |
| Installation | Nail-down or glue-down | Click-lock, peel-and-stick options |
| Maintenance | Requires regular care | Low maintenance |
| Cost | $6.00–$12.00/sq. ft. | $2.00–$5.00/sq. ft. |
| Lifespan | 20–100 years | 10–20 years |
| Resale Value | High | Moderate |
Some spaces are better suited for one material over the other. Here’s a quick guide:
| Room | Best Choice | Why It Works |
| Living Room | Hardwood or Vinyl | Both offer comfort + style |
| Kitchen | Vinyl | Moisture resistance matters here |
| Bathroom | Vinyl | 100% waterproof = less stress |
| Bedroom | Hardwood | Warm, cozy, and quiet underfoot |
| Basement | Vinyl or Engineered HW | Handles below-grade moisture better |
| Hallways | Hardwood (Hickory/Oak) | Durable and high-traffic friendly |
For expert suggestions on which wood styles suit different bedroom aesthetics and foot traffic, explore our blog on Wood Flooring Recommendations for the Bedroom
If you’re leaning toward hardwood, here are the best types to consider by space:
| Room | Recommended Woods | Why |
| Living Room | Oak, Hickory, Maple | Durable with classic charm |
| Kitchen | Engineered Oak, Birch | Resists moisture and movement |
| Bedroom | Walnut, Cherry | Warm tones and elegant appearance |
| Hallways | Hickory, White Oak | Scratch-resistant and dense |
| Basement | Engineered Hardwood with barrier | Moisture-safe installation |
| Dining Room | Red Oak, Ash | Formal and forgiving of furniture drag |
| Home Office | Bamboo, Maple | Clean, light, and easy to maintain |
Each wood type was chosen with the room’s function in mind. Durable options like Hickory and Oak are ideal for high-traffic spaces like living rooms and hallways, while warmer tones like Walnut and Cherry create a cozy feel in bedrooms. Engineered hardwoods are best for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and basements, offering stability without compromising on style.
Considering hardwood for your staircase? Don’t miss our guide on things to consider when choosing wood flooring for staircases—from safety to style.
Still deciding between hardwood vs vinyl flooring? Here’s a simple way to choose:
Choose Hardwood if you want:
Choose Vinyl if you need:
For a deeper look at durability and investment, check out Which Type of Wood Flooring Is the Best?
When it comes to hardwood vs. vinyl, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—just the right fit for your lifestyle.
If you’re after timeless beauty, long-term value, and something that ages gracefully with your home, hardwood is worth the investment. If you need something practical, easy to maintain, and moisture-friendly (hello, bathrooms and basements), vinyl might be the smarter call.
Still unsure? The best decisions often come from seeing the materials in person and getting honest guidance tailored to your space.
📍 Stop by Old World Stone Imports in Orem, Utah, or browse online to explore curated flooring options designed to last.
And if you’re thinking about upgrading this season, now’s a great time—our Spring Refresh Sale is on through April 30:
✨ Enjoy $0.50 off per sq. ft. on all hardwood flooring
✨ Countertops starting at $36.95/sq. ft., including material, fabrication, and installation
Whether it’s one room or the whole house, we’re here to help you refresh your home—without overthinking it. Shop the April Sale here!
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