Hardwood vs Luxury Vinyl Plank

on the other hand, LVP has advanced significantly recently. LVP is known to have textures and patterns that look just like real wood. LVP can also be embossed in register, meaning that the texture follows the exact pattern of the real wood. LVP also is available in many more unique shade options than hardwood. So don’t worry if your teenage daughter wants to do black LVP in her room, we have that here!

Cost Analysis: What is your budget?

LVP costs a lot less than real hardwood. So if you are looking for a low cost budget option LVP is a great choice. LVP can be printed to mimic any kind of wood. So whether you go with a LVP that looks more exotic or conventional, you can be expecting to pay around the same price. So even if you have a more unique or eccentric style, fear not! There are hundreds of options to choose from that won’t break the bank.

Hardwood on the other hand can cost a pretty penny. Price depends on thickness, plank width, and other factors. Though hardwood does have the longest life span which makes it an ideal long term investment. Hardwood can be also refinished which makes it worth the price in the long run. Refinishing basically means sanding and then applying a new coat of stain, offering a brand new fresh finish to your floors.

Durability and Maintenance Face-off: Who does your home consist of?

Does your home consist of a few active kids as well as some animal friends? Then LVP might be the way to go. LVP is 100% waterproof, as well as scratch and dent resistant. There is no need to worry if your kids spill some lemonade on the floor while preparing for their lemonade stand or if your puppy has an accident during potty training. You can rest assured your floors will be just fine after a quick clean up.

In contrast, Hardwood is more prone to scratches, dents, or damage from moisture. Though dents, dings, and scratches do add character and a rustic appeal. There are also ways to choose a hardwood that might be a bit more scratch resistant than others. Generally a wood that scores higher on the Janka Hardness scale and a thicker wear layer are stronger. Also if you go with a Urethane with Aluminum Oxide finish it is considered more protected. Lastly, you can choose a distressed or wire brushed textured hardwood to more easily camouflage any scratches.(Garrison Collection, n.d.). Hardwood floors are known to last for years on end. Hardwood floors can also be refinished to help with scratches. Refinishing can be done approximately every 10 years. Engineered can be refinished 1-2 times, depending on the thickness, and Solid can be refinished multiple times. Comparable with LVP, once hardwood is damaged, it needs to be replaced.

Maintenance: How much effort do you want to put in?

LVP is a piece of cake to take care of. To clean you can sweep or vacuum any number of times, mop with a very small amount of warm water, and/or wash with a non-abrasive cleaner containing no minerals that doesn’t need to be rinsed. Also make sure to never pull hefty furniture and instead lift or use sliders. Super easy!

On the other hand hardwood is a bit more high maintenance. Dusting daily is recommended to help prevent scratches. Dusting removes dirt from the floor, so it isn’t dragged on the wood when people walk around. Using microfiber helps draw up more dust and allergens. You can also sweep or dry mop. If sweeping, make sure to use a broom with soft bristles. Vacuuming weekly with a hardwood safe vacuum is recommended to get all debris off the floor. You can do occasional mopping with a specific wood cleaner used to treat stains that is made specifically for your floors finish, be careful not to use water or steam on your floors as it can be dangerous to them!

Resale: Are you looking to resell your home one day?

f you are looking to resell, hardwood floors could be the winner! Hardwood can greatly increase the value of your home. According to remodeling expert Alex Biyevetskiynew, wood floors can raise the sales price of your home as much as 2.5% when done right! (Evans, 2017). Even if you aren't looking to resell then rest assured you will still benefit from some beautiful new hardwood floors. According to the National Association of Realtors Research Group 90% of people that have installed new wood flooring have a greater desire to be home since completing their project. (Yun et al., 2022)

On the contrary, there aren’t specific statistics showing ROI (Return On Investment) for LVP. USA Today says in a survey of 1558 people, 12.2% would choose LVP and 48% would choose hardwood. (Sandford, 2024). Although, in a starter home, buyers might look for an option like LVP, since it is resistant and is good for a home with kids and pets. Hardwood, especially expensive hardwood, might be less preferred because it is more likely to be damaged. When thinking of reselling, LVP is not as likely to be seen as an asset, but many potential buyers will be drawn to the advantages (Lincolnberg Master Builder, 2022).

Still not sure on whether to go with LVP or Hardwood?

Don’t worry, you are in great hands! Our team of professionals at David’s Flooring has years of experience in helping our customers choose the right flooring! Contact us and we will gladly help you choose the best fit for you. We offer free in-home estimates where we can bring you samples and do a consultation while answering all your questions. We cannot wait to help you find your dream floors!

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Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Flooring Options for Pacific Northwest Homes

By 7074934267 • August 21, 2025

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Flooring Options for Pacific Northwest Homes Flooring is more than just a design choice—it’s the foundation of your home. And here in the Pacific Northwest, homeowners from Seattle to Tacoma, Bellevue to Kent, and Renton to Kirkland are increasingly asking for eco-friendly flooring that reflects the region’s values of sustainability, health, and long-term durability. Why Sustainable Flooring Matters in the PNW Seattle and Tacoma homeowners face unique challenges: wet winters, shifting humidity levels, and long indoor seasons. Choosing sustainable flooring provides three big advantages: Environmental responsibility – Sourced from FSC-certified forests or reclaimed wood suppliers. Healthier indoor air quality – With low-VOC finishes and adhesives , essential in tightly sealed Seattle-area homes. Durability – Materials that handle moisture, temperature changes, and heavy daily use. When you partner with experienced Flooring Contractors in Seattle WA , you’ll get guidance on which materials truly fit your space—not just look good on a showroom floor. FSC-Certified & Reclaimed Hardwood Hardwood remains a top request for homeowners working with a Flooring Company in the PNW . But sustainable hardwood comes with two key distinctions: FSC-Certified Hardwood: Verified by the Forest Stewardship Council, ensuring responsible harvesting practices and forest regeneration. Reclaimed Hardwood: Salvaged from barns, mills, or historic Seattle and Tacoma homes—each board carries unique character, reduces waste, and avoids new harvesting. Why PNW Homeowners Love It: Adds value and timeless appeal to Bellevue, Kirkland, and Seattle homes. Can be refinished multiple times, extending lifespan for 50+ years. Works beautifully in modern condos or restored craftsman homes alike. Installation Tip: Certified Flooring Contractors follow NWFA guidelines, including subfloor moisture testing and acclimation—critical in our damp climate. Natural Linoleum: An Eco-Friendly Classic Not every homeowner wants hardwood. Many families visiting our Flooring store in Kent or Bellevue ask for durable, low-maintenance, eco-friendly alternatives. Natural linoleum is one of the best options. What It’s Made Of: Linseed oil, pine rosin, limestone, wood flour, and jute backing. 100% renewable and biodegradable. Why It’s Sustainable: Long lifespan (often 30–40 years). Naturally anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic—great for family homes in Kent and Renton. Certified low-VOC through programs like GREENGUARD Gold. Best Uses: Kitchens, mudrooms, and play spaces where durability and easy cleaning are essential. Many Kirkland homeowners love Marmoleum’s bold patterns for a modern design twist. Indoor Air Quality: A PNW Priority During long Seattle winters, families spend most of their time indoors. That makes indoor air quality one of the biggest considerations when choosing new flooring. When shopping at a our Flooring store in Bellevue or Kent, WA or hiring us as your trusted flooring contractor, ask about these certifications: FloorScore® – Ensures flooring materials release very low VOCs. GREENGUARD Gold – Even stricter standards, often used for schools and healthcare. Low-VOC adhesives and finishes – Often the “hidden” source of indoor pollution. By choosing certified products, homeowners in Tacoma, Renton, and Bellevue can breathe easier while protecting children and pets from unnecessary chemical exposure. Installation Best Practices in Seattle, Tacoma & Beyond Even the most eco-friendly floors can fail if installed incorrectly. That’s why working with professional Flooring Contractors is so important. Best Practices We Follow at David’s Flooring: Job-site readiness: HVAC running, space at service conditions. Moisture testing: Concrete vapor emission testing, wood subfloor checks. Acclimation: FSC hardwoods and natural linoleum conditioned to the home’s environment. Underlayment selection: Proper vapor barriers in basements, soundproofing in condos. Low-VOC adhesives and finishes: Protecting both installation crews and homeowners. For homes in Bellevue, Kirkland, or Renton, these steps ensure floors last for decades, not just years. Care & Maintenance for Sustainable Floors Keeping your eco-friendly floors beautiful is part of sustainability—longer lifespan equals less waste. Hardwood: Maintain humidity (30–50%), use area rugs, and refinish instead of replacing. Linoleum: Mop with mild, pH-neutral cleaners. Recoat with protective finishes every 10–15 years. Pro Tip: Homeowners in Seattle, Tacoma, and surrounding areas should place heavy-duty mats near entryways. This protects against the constant rain and grit that can damage even the toughest finishes. Avoiding Greenwashing: How to Spot True Eco-Friendly Flooring Many products are marketed as “green,” but only some meet rigorous standards. If you’re shopping at our Flooring Store in Bellevue or Kent , here’s what to check: FSC Certification for hardwood. FloorScore® or GREENGUARD Gold for low emissions. EPDs (Environmental Product Declarations) for transparency on environmental impact. Durability fit: Choose based on actual usage—families in Renton may need linoleum durability, while Kirkland luxury homes might prioritize reclaimed hardwood aesthetics. Frequently Asked Questions About Sustainable Flooring in the PNW 1. What eco-friendly flooring is best for Seattle’s wet climate? For Seattle and Tacoma homes, FSC-certified hardwood with proper sealing or natural linoleum is ideal. Both hold up well against moisture when installed by professional f looring contractors 2. Is reclaimed wood flooring popular in Bellevue and Kirkland? Yes! Homeowners working with us in Bellevue and Kirkland often choose reclaimed wood for its unique character and sustainability. It’s especially valued in luxury homes and remodels that highlight local history. 3. How can I make sure flooring from a Seattle flooring store is truly eco-friendly? Look for FSC certification for wood products, FloorScore® or GREENGUARD Gold for air quality, and ask your flooring contractor about adhesives and finishes to ensure they are low-VOC. 4. Does eco-friendly flooring cost more in Renton or Kent compared to traditional flooring? Not always. While reclaimed hardwood can be a premium option, linoleum and certain FSC hardwoods are competitively priced. Many homeowners in Kent and Renton find that long-term durability offsets the upfront investment. 5. Do eco-friendly floors last as long as traditional options? Absolutely. With proper installation and care, reclaimed hardwood can last 50+ years, and linoleum can last up to 40 years. The key is working with a local and trusted flooring contractor to ensure correct installation. Final Thoughts Sustainable flooring isn’t just a style—it’s a lifestyle. By choosing FSC-certified hardwood, reclaimed wood, or natural linoleum , Seattle and Tacoma homeowners can enjoy beautiful, durable floors while protecting indoor air quality and the environment. If you’re ready to take the next step, David’s Flooring is your trusted local partner. Whether you’re comparing products at our flooring stores in Kent or Bellevue, hiring Flooring Contractors in Tacoma WA , or browsing options in Bellevue, Kent, Renton, or Kirkland , we’ll help you find the perfect eco-friendly floor for your home. 👉 Contact us today for a free in-home estimate. We proudly serve Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, Kent, Renton, Kirkland, Redmond, Issaquah, Sammamish, Bothell, Shoreline, Lynnwood, Federal Way, Auburn, and the greater King and Pierce County areas with sustainable flooring solutions built for the Pacific Northwest.

Modern bathroom with glass shower enclosure, freestanding bathtub, double vanity with white quartz

Mold-Resistant Flooring Options for Damp Areas

By 7074934267 • August 12, 2025

Discover mold-resistant flooring options from David’s Flooring. Serving Kent, Seattle, Bellevue, Renton, Tacoma & Kirkland, WA. Free in-home estimates.