May 2025 · Luxury Floor Depot · Orlando, FL

Hardwood vs. LVP: Which Is Right for Your Orlando Home?

The two most common questions we get at our Orlando showroom: “Should I do real hardwood or LVP?” and “Will hardwood hold up in Florida?” Here's an honest comparison based on what we see every day.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Humidity performance

Hardwood

Solid hardwood expands/contracts significantly. Engineered hardwood handles humidity much better.

LVP

100% waterproof and dimensionally stable. Best category for Florida homes.

Cost installed

Hardwood

$8–18/sq ft for engineered hardwood; more for solid or exotic species

LVP

$4–9/sq ft installed — significantly less expensive for comparable look

Appearance

Hardwood

Real wood grain, natural variation, premium look that many homeowners prefer

LVP

High-quality LVP is visually similar — difficult to distinguish in photos

Durability

Hardwood

Can dent from hard impacts (pets, furniture). Can be refinished when worn.

LVP

Scratch-resistant surface. Cannot be refinished if worn through — must be replaced.

Resale value

Hardwood

Real hardwood still commands a premium with buyers in higher-end markets

LVP

Accepted by most buyers; some premium buyers prefer real hardwood

Best rooms

Hardwood

Living areas and bedrooms in climate-controlled homes with stable humidity

LVP

Kitchens, laundry rooms, bathrooms, and any room with moisture exposure

The Florida Bottom Line

For most Orlando homes, engineered hardwood (not solid) or premium LVP are both solid choices. LVP wins on cost, moisture resistance, and practical maintenance. Engineered hardwood wins on authenticity and resale positioning in higher-end homes. Many Orlando homeowners mix: LVP in bathrooms and kitchen, engineered hardwood in bedrooms and living areas. We can show you both side-by-side at our showroom.

See both side-by-side at our showroom

7630 Currency Dr, Orlando, FL 32809. We'll help you decide what's right for your specific home.

Call (407) 704-7793