Solid hardwood floors have an extensive history steeped in condition and luxury that dates back hundreds of years. The posh plank flooring continues to exist one of the most revered and sought-after interior features for homeowners and designers today — and for proficient reason. Hardwood flooring provides homeowners with countless versatility, longevity and unmatched resale appeal.

So, what's the catch? Well, while hardwood floors practice offering lots of advantages, they also come consummate with a hefty list of cons to consider.

Hardwood Flooring Cons

Hardwoods are synonymous with luxury because — y'all guessed information technology — they're expensive. The average materials lone beginning effectually $iv per foursquare foot, and that number climbs when y'all factor in labor costs. Solid hardwood flooring is difficult to install and ordinarily involves professional outsourcing because the planks must be installed on a subfloor and ofttimes crave staples, nails or total-spread adhesive to secure in place.

Other issues to keep in mind? Hardwoods are susceptible to scratching and scuffing in loftier-traffic areas (or homes with pets and kids!) and are vulnerable to h2o harm and the warping, creaking and leaking that comes with information technology. Wood floors crave vigilant intendance to maintain appearances and will require repair and refinishing over the years.

Hither'south the expert news: If you're in love with the look of solid hardwood floor simply aren't emotionally or fiscally prepared to commit to the expensive, long-term human relationship outlined above, you lot're in luck.

A Quick Guide to Vinyl Plank Flooring

Photo By: Flynnside Out Productions

Vinyl plank floors are a mod phenomenon that provide homeowners the luxurious wait and longevity of hardwood floors without the warping, water damage, staining or scratching involved with their natural analogue. Plus, vinyl plank flooring is typically a fraction of the cost for materials, and some varieties cut out labor costs all together with DIY-friendly, click-and-lock installation.

There are three master types of vinyl plank floor: luxury vinyl plank flooring, rigid cadre vinyl plank flooring and waterproof vinyl plank flooring. Each of these options has like characteristics, merely some may be better equipped for your home than others based on your needs.

  • Luxury Vinyl Plank Floor (LVP)
    Luxury vinyl plank flooring — or LVP — is a fan favorite for its convincing wood-like looks, high-quality construction and comfort underfoot. LVP flooring is crafted with four layers including a waterproof, PVC vinyl cadre and a scratch- and stain-resistant acme layer perfect for pets and kids.
  • Rigid Core Vinyl Plank Flooring
    Rigid core vinyl plank floor is equipped with a dumbo composite cadre that's engineered for both longevity and durability in high-traffic areas. The planks are bachelor in a variety of core materials, but the near common are SPC (stone plastic composite), WPC (wood plastic composite) or a hybrid variation. Rigid core floors are platonic for busy hallways and anywhere with heavy foot traffic. The life-proof planks are also waterproof and serve as a fail-proof floor solution for open up floor programme designs.
  • Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring (WPC)
    Waterproof vinyl plank floor — or WPC — is similar to rigid core and luxury plank floorings but distinct in their advanced, 100-percent waterproof engineering science. The waterproof planks are constructed with four layers and contain a waterproof core built to withstand spills and splashes. Put WPC vinyl floors at the height of your must-have list for your kitchen, bathroom and utility flooring makeovers.

Feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to begin when it comes to picking the vinyl plank flooring best for yous? We've got you covered. Keep scrolling to check out our picks for vinyl plank flooring based on your needs.

Best for Pets + Kids

Information technology's important to invest wisely when selecting floors for a home blessed with active kids and pets. These vinyl plank floor picks are built to withstand all the action in high-traffic areas and lively households with textured finishes, sound-minimizing cores and scuff-proof design.

All-time for Kitchens + Bathrooms

Never cry over spilled milk once again! Make a splash in your kitchen or bathroom with these striking waterproof vinyl plank designs. The realistic wood finishes yield archetype appeal and promise to elevate your kitchen or bathroom design from underfoot.

Easiest DIY Installation

Scroll upward your sleeves, throw on some work gloves and transform your home over a weekend with like shooting fish in a barrel click-and-lock vinyl plank flooring. The unique click design allows for quick and seamless DIY installation atop any existing flat subfloors including granite, tile, laminate and cement.

All-time for Scratch + Stain Resistance

Scuffs, scratches and stains will be a thing of a by with these ultra-durable plank flooring picks. Each of the vinyl plank floors is equipped with stiff cores to withstand foot traffic and life-proof surfaces that will continue to shine fifty-fifty in life'south messiest moments. These floors fit the beak for both action-packed utility spaces and elegant entryways.

Most Convincing Forest Finish

Achieve a natural forest look in your cottage, farmhouse or country dwelling with these wow-worthy rustic planks. Their weathered finish and textured top layer come together to create a convincing gull to mannerly reclaimed wood without the instability that comes with the real thing.