Pros & Cons of Luxury Vinyl and Hardwood

Posted by MariRuth Runyon on 21st Jun 2022

With the rise in luxury vinyl prices, hardwood is becoming more popular as the price points are closer. Before comparing these two products seemed so simple. Luxury vinyl was the affordable option, and hardwood was for higher-end needs. Nowadays, technology has advanced to where vinyl looks and feels nearly identical to hardwood. So in today’s market, what are the pros and cons of luxury vinyl and hardwood? At Georgia Carpet Industries, we want to ensure you have all the updated information you need to decide for your floors.

Starting with luxury vinyl, the main pro is that it’s easy to install. Most vinyl planks click together, so those who prefer the DIY route can quickly lay down their floors. Vinyl is also easier to clean and maintain. Depending on the brand/type of vinyl you purchase, it could have waterproof capabilities, making it an excellent choice for splash zones like bathrooms and kitchens. One major con about vinyl flooring is that the value-added to your space is much less than hardwood floors at current prices. If you are paying within the same price range for both products, buying the hardwood will increase the overall value of your home. Those who plan on selling their homes will have a higher return on investment with hardwood flooring.

While vinyl is visually close to hardwood, nothing can quite compare to hardwood’s natural graining and shades. Hardwood is also highly durable if maintained properly. Staining and refinishing are possible, unlike with vinyl, if you ever want to update your floors. Another pro of hardwood is its cost-effectiveness. These floors are built to last, and you end up paying less in the long run for repairs and maintenance. The main downside of hardwood flooring is its lack of humidity and water resistance. This limits which levels you can install and where you can put it. Spaces like bathrooms and kitchens risk more damage. Installation fees are also higher for hardwood.

In recent years, the gap between hardwood and vinyl has been decreasing. Vinyl is looking more like hardwood with the help of advanced technology, and hardwood is being produced to have closer durability to vinyl. Their price points are also closer now than ever before. Deciding between the two can be more difficult. Your main dealbreaker will mostly depend on the price and what you need for your home. Maybe you are working on a smaller budget and know you will have heavy traffic, or perhaps you are looking to invest more in your home. Either way, Georgia Carpet has all your needs covered. Make sure to check out our engineered and solid hardwood flooring along with our endless vinyl options today!

Shaw Residential Carpet FAQs

What makes Shaw residential carpet a good choice for my home?

Shaw is widely regarded as a high-quality carpet manufacturer. Their residential carpets offer a broad selection of styles, textures, and colors, from cozy plush carpets to durable loop and twist styles, which makes it easier to match the carpet to your home’s needs and decor. Additionally, many Shaw carpets include features such as stain-resistance, wear resistance, and pet- or family-friendly options, which make them suitable for everyday living spaces.

How do I maintain and clean Shaw carpet to keep it looking good?

Regular maintenance, like vacuuming and keeping dirt out with entry mats, helps prevent soil and grit from embedding in carpet fibers, which prolongs life and appearance. For spills and stains, act quickly and follow proper stain-removal guidelines. Many Shaw products are engineered to resist stains, but timely care will help maintain that benefit over time. Always review the specific care instructions included in your warranty, as different carpet collections may have slightly different care requirements.

Are there carpet styles that are better for households with pets or children?

Yes. If you have pets, kids, or high foot traffic, choose carpets with stain-resistant fibers, tightly woven construction, and darker or multicolor patterns that are better at hiding wear, dirt, or stains. Certain Shaw collections are particularly well-suited for these conditions. You may want to ask for our recommendations based on your household lifestyle (e.g. pets, kids, frequent guests, etc.).

How long should I expect my carpet to last? When should I consider replacing it?

With proper installation, good padding, and routine maintenance, high-quality residential carpet from Shaw can last many years, often a decade or more depending on use, before deterioration signs of use really begin to show. However, heavy daily traffic, pets, frequent spills, or neglecting cleaning may cause wear, matting, or color fading sooner. It’s wise to inspect carpets periodically: once you notice thinning, persistent stains, or uneven wear, it may be time to replace or re-carpet.

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