The flooring category has changed more in the past decade than almost any other part of home renovation. Luxury vinyl plank has gone from a budget substitute to a genuinely competitive option in many applications. But hardwood has not been replaced. This article explains how we think about the choice, based on the specific conditions of the homes we work in across the Portland metro area.

Where Each Product Belongs

Solid hardwood belongs on above-grade floors in climate-controlled spaces. It is sensitive to moisture and temperature swings, which makes it a poor choice for basements, bathrooms, or laundry rooms. Engineered hardwood, which uses a real wood veneer over a plywood core, handles moisture somewhat better and can go in some below-grade applications with proper moisture mitigation. Luxury vinyl plank is fully waterproof and handles temperature fluctuation well, making it the right choice for basements, mudrooms, and any space that sees regular water exposure.

Cost Comparison

Installed solid hardwood in Portland typically runs $8 to $12 per square foot depending on species, grade, and subfloor condition. Engineered hardwood runs $6.50 to $10 installed. Luxury vinyl plank runs $4.50 to $7.50 installed, including underlayment. The gap is meaningful on a 1,200 square foot project. That said, hardwood can be refinished three to five times over its life, which changes the long-term cost calculation. LVP cannot be refinished and will need to be replaced when it reaches the end of its useful life, typically 15 to 25 years depending on the product.

Subfloor Conditions Matter More Than the Product

The condition of the subfloor affects both product choice and installation cost. We include a moisture test and subfloor assessment in every flooring estimate. A subfloor with high moisture readings rules out solid hardwood regardless of preference. A subfloor with significant height variation requires leveling before any product goes down, which adds cost. In older Portland homes, we frequently find subfloors with multiple layers of previous flooring that need to be assessed before a recommendation can be made.

What We Bring to the Estimate

When we do a flooring estimate, we bring samples from both categories, including current stock from Pacific Hardwoods Northwest in Tualatin. We walk through the space, assess the subfloor, and give you a written comparison of both options with installed costs. We do not have a financial incentive to push one product over the other. The right answer depends on your space, your household, and your plans for the home.

If you are trying to decide between flooring options for a specific room, reach out and we will give you a straight comparison based on your actual conditions.