LVP vs Laminate vs Hardwood: Which Suits a Calgary Home?
Short answer: LVP is the safest choice for basements, kitchens and busy households. Hardwood is lovely where it can be kept stable. Laminate sits in between but dislikes water.
The short version
All three can look like wood. They behave very differently when it comes to water, temperature and repairs, and that is what should drive the decision in a Calgary house.
Moisture
LVP has a waterproof or highly water-resistant core, so spills, pet accidents and humidity are not a big concern. Laminate has a fibreboard core that can swell at the seams when it gets wet. Hardwood reacts to humidity changes as well as to direct water.
Dry winters and seasonal change
Calgary winters are dry indoors, and hardwood can shrink and open gaps between boards. LVP and laminate do not respond to humidity in the same way, although floating vinyl does expand and contract a little with temperature.
Wear and repair
- LVP: the wear layer resists scuffs, and damaged planks can often be replaced.
- Laminate: hard surface, but chips can show a lighter core and swollen edges are hard to fix.
- Hardwood: can be sanded and refinished several times, which LVP and laminate cannot.
Where each one fits
LVP suits basements, kitchens, bathrooms, entries and rental properties. Hardwood suits living areas where you want a floor that can be refinished over decades. Laminate can suit dry, low-traffic rooms where cost matters most.
