Luxury Vinyl Plank vs. Hardwood: Which One is Easier to Maintain?

When it comes to choosing the right flooring option, maintenance is one of the biggest deciding factors.

Luxury vinyl plank and hardwood are two of the most popular choices for homeowners today. Each one offers unique benefits. Hardwood flooring is classic, elegant, and incredibly durable. Luxury vinyl flooring, on the other hand, is known for being waterproof, affordable, and easy to clean.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the best low maintenance flooring, their cleaning routine, maintenance requirements, and long-term durability.

Let’s find out which flooring option truly delivers when it comes to easy maintenance, and which one might demand more than you bargained for.

Quick Comparison: LVP vs. Hardwood at a Glance

When you’re deciding between flooring options for your home, a quick side-by-side look can help clarify which one fits your lifestyle. Below is a breakdown comparing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and hardwood across the most important maintenance-related categories.

This chart is especially helpful if you’re working with high-traffic areas or just want something low-maintenance that still looks great.

Daily Cleaning and Routine Care

One of the biggest advantages of luxury vinyl plank flooring is how simple it is to clean and maintain. A quick sweep to pick up dust or debris, followed by a damp mop, is usually all it takes. You don’t need special cleaning solutions, just a neutral pH cleaner or even diluted vinegar and water will do the job. This makes LVP one of the easiest flooring options to keep looking fresh, especially in kitchens and high-traffic areas.

Hardwood flooring, while beautiful, requires a bit more attention. Sweeping and vacuuming are still the basics, but mopping takes more care. Using too much water can cause the wood to swell or warp. You’ll need a wood-safe cleaning solution and a slightly damp mop. Over time, hardwood may also need occasional buffing or recoating to keep the finish intact.

If you want a floor that supports a fast, no-fuss cleaning routine, luxury vinyl flooring has a clear edge. It’s designed to make daily upkeep easy without sacrificing style.

Scratch and Dent Resistance

In everyday life, your floors take a lot of hits, furniture gets dragged, pets run wild, toys get dropped, and heavy foot traffic is a given. So scratch and dent resistance is a key part of choosing the right flooring option.

Luxury vinyl planks are designed to handle that kind of wear. Thanks to its tough wear layer, LVP resists most surface scratches and holds up well in high-traffic areas like entryways and hallways. Some types even include enhanced scratch protection for homes with pets or kids. While no floor is completely damage-proof, LVP performs incredibly well for a low-maintenance flooring option.

Hardwood flooring, especially softer species like walnut or pine, can be more vulnerable. Even harder wood types like oak or hickory may scratch from pet nails, moving furniture, or dropped objects. Over time, these dents and scratches can build up, though they can often be sanded out if the wood is solid or high-quality engineered hardwood.

If you’re worried about everyday damage or simply want a more forgiving surface, vinyl plank flooring is one of the most durable flooring options available.

Water and Moisture Resistance

Water resistance is a big deal, especially if you’re updating areas like the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. Not all flooring materials handle moisture the same way.

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is fully waterproof. You can mop it regularly without worrying about swelling or warping, and it can handle spills, steam, and even standing water for short periods. That’s what makes it one of the best flooring options for high-traffic areas and moisture-prone spaces. If you're looking for low-maintenance flooring that stands up to daily messes, LVP is a top contender.

Hardwood flooring is more sensitive. While engineered hardwood offers better moisture resistance than solid hardwood, neither is waterproof. Even small spills can damage the wood if not cleaned up quickly. Over time, repeated exposure to moisture can lead to stains, warping, or gaps between planks. That’s why hardwood is typically not recommended for bathrooms or laundry rooms.

If you're planning a remodel in a room where water is a factor, luxury vinyl flooring offers far more peace of mind. It’s built to take the splash.

Long-Term Maintenance and Lifespan

Over time, every type of flooring shows signs of wear. The question is how much effort it takes to keep it looking good year after year.

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is a low-maintenance flooring option that doesn’t require refinishing. If a plank ever gets damaged, you can simply replace that piece instead of redoing the entire floor. There’s no need for sanding, sealing, or waxing. This makes LVP especially convenient in high-traffic areas where accidents or wear are more likely.

Hardwood flooring requires a different approach. Even though hardwood is incredibly durable, it needs regular upkeep to maintain its look over time. Depending on the type of wood and the thickness of the wear layer, hardwood may need to be refinished every 7 to 10 years. That process involves sanding down the surface and applying a new protective finish, adding both time and cost to your flooring investment.

Well-maintained hardwood can last for decades, even a lifetime. But it does require more effort to stay in top shape. Vinyl plank may not last quite as long, but it keeps its appearance with far less maintenance.

Cost of Maintenance Over Time

When comparing flooring options, it’s important to think beyond the upfront price. Long-term maintenance costs can make a big difference in the total investment.

Luxury vinyl plank flooring keeps things simple. There’s no need for professional refinishing, specialized cleaning products, or routine sealing. A basic cleaning solution and a mop are usually all you need. And if one area gets damaged, replacing a plank is quick and affordable. Over time, this low-maintenance approach adds up to real savings, especially in homes with heavy foot traffic.

Hardwood flooring can be more expensive to maintain. While it's a durable flooring option, it requires refinishing every few years depending on wear. That process can cost anywhere from $3 to $8 per square foot, plus the time and effort to move furniture and wait for the finish to cure. Add in the need for wood-safe cleaning products, and the upkeep starts to feel like a bigger commitment.

If you're looking for a flooring solution that keeps maintenance costs low without sacrificing durability or style, luxury vinyl plank is one of the best flooring options to consider.

FAQs About Vinyl and Hardwood Floor Maintenance

Is luxury vinyl plank more durable than hardwood?

Yes. LVP handles scratches, stains, and moisture better than most hardwood, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

What is the best low-maintenance flooring?

Luxury vinyl plank. It’s waterproof, easy to clean with a mop, and doesn’t require refinishing, perfect for busy homes.

Does luxury vinyl plank scratch easily?

Not easily. LVP resists scratches well, especially with a thick wear layer. It’s tougher than softer wood and holds up to pets and foot traffic.

What are the disadvantages of luxury vinyl plank?

It can’t be refinished, so damaged planks must be replaced. Some budget options wear faster, and it doesn’t feel quite like real wood.

Final Say

Choosing between luxury vinyl plank and hardwood flooring comes down to how much time and effort you want to spend on upkeep.

Luxury vinyl plank is one of the easiest flooring options to clean and maintain. It’s waterproof, durable, and holds up well in high-traffic areas without needing refinishing. If your goal is to simplify your cleaning routine and reduce long-term maintenance, LVP is a practical and stylish solution.

Hardwood flooring brings unmatched warmth and character, but it does take more care. It can scratch, it doesn’t love moisture, and it may need to be refinished every few years. For homeowners who are comfortable with a bit more maintenance, hardwood remains a beautiful long-term investment.

If easy maintenance is your top priority, luxury vinyl plank flooring is the better fit. It offers long-lasting durability with less hassle, making it one of the best low-maintenance flooring options available today.

Need help choosing the right flooring for your space? Visit your local Carpet Exchange or explore our flooring options online to find low-maintenance styles that match your lifestyle and your look.

We make it easy to clean, easy to live with, and easy to love.