Are Hardwood Floors Right For Me?
When it comes to flooring, everyone’s ideal seems to be hardwood. And there is no denying that there is just something about the look and feel of real hardwood floors. There are many advantages to hardwood and just as many disadvantages. Before investing in hardwood floors in your home, read on about some of the lesser-known downsides and how LVP (or even carpet) might better fit your needs.
Cost
By far, the biggest drawback of hardwood flooring is the cost. Recent estimates of hardwood floors put the cost at $6-$18 per square foot. Comparatively, luxury vinyl plank or carpet can cost just a fraction of that.
But before you get your checkbook out, there are some other expenses to consider.
Before installing hardwood flooring, you’ll have to remove existing flooring and even repair your subfloor’s irregularities. Ensuring this is done correctly will add time and expense to your flooring project. Typically, hardwood floor installation can add another $3-22 per square foot to your costs.
Alternatively, LVP can be installed over your existing flooring, saving you time and money. Overall, many experts and DIYers agree that LVP is easier to install. So, if you’re hoping to get it done yourself, LVP might be a better option for you.
Maintenance and Repair
Before installing any flooring, you should look ahead and understand what kind of maintenance and upkeep your floors will require. Choosing hardwood is a commitment as many types of wood need special cleaning products or techniques to keep it in tip-top shape. Conversely, LVP is low maintenance. It can be cleaned with almost any floor cleaner; spills clean up easily, and it is generally easy to keep your floors looking great.
Repairing damage to your floor can also be a consideration. Replacing individual boards can be a big project. And sanding, filling, and repairing an entire room of hardwood flooring could be a huge project and a significant expense.
Repairing damage to an LVP floor can be much easier. Planks can be cut out and replaced with little disruption to the floor itself.
Both hardwood and LVP are durable, so this won’t be an everyday occurrence, but knowing how to maintain and repair should be well-understood before you commit.
Watch out for “Over Improvement”
“Over Improvement” happens when homeowners pick upgraded improvements and finishes for a home that are a little above the home’s value. Think of a mid-value home with a $500,000 home theater in the basement or a townhouse with a 5-car garage. And while those finishes are very nice, they are out of place.
Similarly, hardwood flooring might be your first choice (if cost and maintenance weren’t a consideration). Still, homeowners should also be mindful of what is best for the property’s long-term value, especially if they don’t plan to stay in the home long-term. Noted home improvement expert Bob Villa recommends opting for affordable options with a high-end look to satisfy your wants and to avoid over improvement of your home.
Bottom line: when choosing the right flooring for your home, do your homework first. Don’t fall in love with something that is not right for your home or your budget. And if you need help finding the perfect fit, Sloane’s Carpet Secret would love to help. Shop online anytime or make an appointment with a flooring expert.