Table of Contents
- Introduction: Flooring as the Foundation of Every Toronto Home
- Understanding Hardwood Flooring
- Understanding Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring
- Comparing Appearance and Aesthetics
- Durability and Maintenance: How They Hold Up in Toronto’s Climate
- Comfort and Acoustics
- Installation Process and Timeline
- Water Resistance and Moisture Control
- Cost Comparison: Hardwood vs LVP in Toronto
- Environmental Impact and Sustainability
- Best Rooms for Each Flooring Type
- Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
- Real Estate Value: Which Adds More ROI in Toronto?
- Combining Both: Mixed Flooring Design Ideas
- Choosing the Right Contractor
- Why Toronto Homeowners Trust David Reno
- Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Floor for Your Home
1. Introduction: Flooring as the Foundation of Every Toronto Home
The flooring you choose sets the tone for your entire home — influencing comfort, aesthetics, and property value. In cities like Toronto, Vaughan, and Markham, homeowners are increasingly weighing the benefits of hardwood versus luxury vinyl plank (LVP) when planning their home renovations.
Each material has its strengths: hardwood brings natural beauty and longevity, while LVP offers modern durability and moisture resistance at a lower cost. Understanding these differences helps you make a decision that aligns with your lifestyle, budget, and the unique climate challenges of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
At David Reno, our flooring experts have guided countless Toronto homeowners through this decision, ensuring each renovation blends timeless appeal with practical performance.
2. Understanding Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring is a classic and timeless option that has graced Toronto homes for generations. It’s made from solid pieces of wood — typically oak, maple, cherry, or walnut — that can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifespan.
Benefits of Hardwood Flooring:
- Natural beauty: Each plank showcases unique grain patterns and textures.
- Longevity: Can last 50+ years with proper maintenance.
- Refinishing potential: Instead of replacement, hardwood can be renewed through sanding and re-staining.
- Increased property value: Highly desirable among buyers in areas like North York, Mississauga, and Vaughan.
Drawbacks:
- Sensitive to moisture and humidity, which can cause warping.
- Higher installation cost compared to synthetic flooring.
- Requires regular maintenance like refinishing and polishing.
Despite these drawbacks, many Toronto homeowners still prefer hardwood for its warmth, timeless charm, and ability to elevate luxury interiors.
3. Understanding Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring has evolved dramatically over the past decade. Today’s LVP options closely mimic the look and feel of hardwood — complete with textured surfaces and realistic wood grains — but are made of multiple durable synthetic layers.
Benefits of LVP Flooring:
- Waterproof and moisture-resistant, perfect for basements and kitchens.
- Affordable: Costs significantly less than hardwood in both materials and installation.
- Durability: Resistant to scratches, dents, and daily wear.
- Low maintenance: No need for refinishing or polishing.
- Variety: Available in countless designs, from oak and maple imitations to contemporary greys.
Drawbacks:
- Cannot be refinished — must be replaced when damaged.
- Slightly less natural feel underfoot.
- May not add as much resale value as true hardwood.
For homes in Toronto’s humid summers and freezing winters, LVP provides a practical alternative that withstands moisture and temperature changes better than traditional wood.
4. Comparing Appearance and Aesthetics
Hardwood is unmatched in authenticity. Its natural imperfections, depth, and luster evolve beautifully over time. In upscale areas like Rosedale or Forest Hill, hardwood is often considered a mark of craftsmanship and prestige.
LVP, however, offers surprising realism. Advanced printing technologies allow vinyl to mimic high-end hardwood designs, from rustic oak to sleek walnut. For homeowners seeking flexibility, LVP offers consistent texture and color at a lower price point — ideal for modern condos or rental properties across the GTA.
5. Durability and Maintenance: How They Hold Up in Toronto’s Climate
Toronto’s climate — with humid summers, dry winters, and drastic temperature swings — can take a toll on flooring.
- Hardwood can expand and contract with humidity changes, potentially leading to gaps or warping if not properly installed or humidified.
- LVP, on the other hand, is dimensionally stable, meaning it resists swelling and shrinking. It’s also scratch-resistant, making it ideal for homes with kids or pets.
For busy families or rental units in Scarborough or Richmond Hill, LVP offers a worry-free flooring solution. For luxury homeowners seeking authenticity and long-term investment, hardwood remains the top contender.
6. Comfort and Acoustics
Hardwood floors provide a solid, natural underfoot feel that adds warmth and resonance. It’s ideal for living rooms and bedrooms where comfort and acoustics matter.
LVP is slightly softer, especially when installed with a foam underlayment. It reduces noise transfer between floors — a great advantage in multi-level Toronto homes or condos.
If you prioritize quiet, cushioned walking surfaces, LVP might edge out hardwood in comfort.
7. Installation Process and Timeline
- Hardwood Installation:
Requires subfloor preparation, nail-down or glue-down installation, and time for acclimatization. It’s best handled by professional contractors like David Reno, as incorrect installation can lead to cupping or gapping. - LVP Installation:
Quick and cost-effective. Many LVP products feature click-lock systems, allowing floating installations over existing floors. Projects can often be completed within a few days — minimizing downtime during your home renovation.
For homeowners in Markham or Vaughan seeking fast turnarounds, LVP offers an efficient solution without compromising aesthetics.
8. Water Resistance and Moisture Control
Hardwood and moisture are not best friends. While sealed hardwood can resist light spills, it’s not suitable for bathrooms or basements. Prolonged exposure can lead to swelling, staining, or mold issues.
LVP excels in this category. It’s 100% waterproof, making it the preferred choice for:
- Basements prone to dampness
- Bathrooms and kitchens
- Mudrooms or entryways where snow and slush are common
If your Toronto home renovation includes moisture-prone areas, LVP is the clear winner.
9. Cost Comparison: Hardwood vs LVP in Toronto
Let’s look at the average 2025 flooring costs for Toronto homeowners:
| Flooring Type | Material Cost (per sq. ft.) | Installation Cost (per sq. ft.) | Total Estimated Cost (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Hardwood | $7 – $12 | $4 – $8 | $11 – $20 |
| Engineered Hardwood | $6 – $10 | $3 – $6 | $9 – $16 |
| Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) | $3 – $6 | $2 – $4 | $5 – $10 |
While hardwood can easily double the cost of LVP, its longevity and resale value often justify the investment in high-end homes.
For budget-conscious renovations or rental units in Scarborough or Mississauga, LVP delivers impressive aesthetics without breaking the bank.
10. Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Eco-conscious homeowners increasingly ask: Which flooring is more sustainable?
- Hardwood: When sourced responsibly (FSC-certified), it’s renewable and biodegradable. However, it does require trees to be harvested.
- LVP: Made from PVC materials, it’s less eco-friendly to produce but can last decades, reducing waste.
At David Reno, we guide clients toward sustainable choices — from reclaimed hardwood to low-VOC vinyl products that balance beauty and environmental responsibility.
11. Best Rooms for Each Flooring Type
| Room | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Living Room | Hardwood | Warmth, elegance, resale appeal |
| Kitchen | LVP | Waterproof and easy to clean |
| Bathroom | LVP | Full water resistance |
| Basement | LVP | Moisture-safe and affordable |
| Bedroom | Hardwood | Comfort and timeless beauty |
| Entryway | LVP | Handles snow and slush better |
12. Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
- Ignoring subfloor conditions before installation.
- Choosing the wrong flooring for high-moisture areas.
- Failing to acclimate hardwood before installation.
- Overlooking professional installation — especially for hardwood.
- Using harsh cleaning chemicals that damage floor finishes.
Hiring experienced Toronto contractors like David Reno prevents costly flooring issues down the line.
13. Real Estate Value: Which Adds More ROI in Toronto?
Hardwood remains a top ROI renovation feature in Toronto real estate. According to recent market reports, homes with hardwood floors can sell for 3–5% more than similar properties with vinyl or laminate.
That said, modern LVP is increasingly popular among younger buyers seeking low-maintenance living. For rental properties or income suites, it’s the more economical, durable choice.
Ultimately, the best ROI comes from matching your flooring choice to your property type and market demographic.
14. Combining Both: Mixed Flooring Design Ideas
Who says you must choose just one? Many homeowners now combine both materials for a cohesive yet functional design:
- Hardwood in living and dining areas for sophistication
- LVP in bathrooms, laundry, and basements for practicality
- Seamless transitions between textures for visual flow
This hybrid approach maximizes aesthetics and performance while optimizing your renovation budget.
15. Choosing the Right Contractor
Flooring success starts with expert installation. Even premium materials can fail if not handled correctly.
When selecting a Toronto contractor, look for:
- Proven experience with both hardwood and LVP
- Moisture and subfloor assessment services
- Transparent cost breakdowns
- Warrantied installation
David Reno offers all of the above — ensuring each flooring project meets Toronto building standards and aesthetic expectations.
16. Why Toronto Homeowners Trust David Reno
As one of Toronto’s most reputable renovation companies, David Reno provides full-service solutions, including:
- Flooring installation (hardwood, LVP, tile, and more)
- Kitchen and bathroom renovations
- Basement finishing
- Custom home builds and additions
- Open-concept remodeling
- Roofing, siding, and landscaping
Serving Toronto, Vaughan, Markham, Mississauga, Scarborough, North York, and Richmond Hill, our mission is to blend craftsmanship with modern innovation — delivering results that last for generations.
17. Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Floor for Your Home
When it comes to flooring, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Hardwood offers timeless luxury and long-term value, while LVP provides unmatched practicality and resilience for Toronto’s unpredictable climate.
Your choice depends on lifestyle, location, and renovation goals — but with the right guidance, both options can transform your home into a space that’s stylish, comfortable, and built to last.
If you’re ready to upgrade your floors, contact David Reno today for a personalized consultation and discover which flooring option will make your Toronto home shine year-round.