Luxury vinyl offers several advantages over hardwood in coastal environments, primarily moisture resistance and dimensional stability. While hardwood can warp, cup, or gap due to humidity changes, luxury vinyl maintains consistent appearance and performance.
Maintenance is dramatically easier with vinyl. Hardwood requires periodic refinishing, careful cleaning to avoid water damage, and immediate attention to spills. Luxury vinyl handles moisture, requires only basic cleaning, and never needs refinishing.
Cost is typically lower both upfront and long-term. Quality luxury vinyl costs $3-8 per square foot installed versus $8-15+ for comparable hardwood. Over time, maintenance savings add up significantly. The trade-off is resale value—hardwood may add more to home value, though luxury vinyl’s practical benefits increasingly appeal to buyers.