Hard Surface Flooring FAQs: What Homeowners Really Want To Know

Choosing new floors can feel like learning a new language. Hardwood, laminate, LVP, engineered this, resilient that … it’s a lot! We’ve rounded up answers to some of the most common hard surface flooring FAQs about hard surface flooring. Think of this as your no-stress guide to picking the right floors for your home, family, and pets.

What's the difference between hardwood, laminate, LVT, LVP, and hybrid resilient?

• Hardwood = the real deal. It’s beautiful but can be much more sensitive to moisture.
• Engineered Hardwood = a real hardwood surface over a sturdy multi-ply core, making it more stable and durable. Laminate = a high-density core topped with a wood-look image and a tough wear layer. Bonus: it provides the ultimate scratch resistance.
• LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) or LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) = waterproof vinyl that mimics wood or stone. Great for busy households.
• Hybrid Resilient = layered flooring combining the best of laminate and vinyl for ultimate durability and waterproofing.

Solid vs. engineered hardwood — what’s the deal?

Solid hardwood is one solid plank of wood — you can sand and refinish it many times. Engineered hardwood has a real-wood top layer over a stable core for durability. It also allows for use in basements or over concrete subfloors. Engineered wood can’t be refinished as many times as solid hardwood, but it’s more versatile and offers higher performance.

Is LVT good for bathrooms and laundry rooms?

Yes! Many luxury vinyl products are waterproof, making them perfect for splash-happy spaces. It’s also a low-maintenance flooring, making cleanup a breeze. Look for options with lifetime surface and subfloor warranties for the ultimate in waterproof flooring.

What makes a vinyl or laminate foor look like real wood?

These three design elements can make vinyl or laminate almost indistinguishable from the real thing.

• EIR (Embossed in Register) — texture matches the grain patterns you see
• Bevels — tiny grooves at the edges can mimic real wood planks
• Matte Finishes — less shine, more natural vibes

What is the best flooring for pets and kids

You need something that can handle claws, spills, and toys. Laminate is great for scratch resistance, while waterproof vinyl stands strongest against accidents. Textured, matte finishes help disguise everyday messes until cleanup time.

Which floors are most scratch and dent resistant?

Laminate wins for scratch resistance, and premium products are also dent resistant. Some premium LVT is designed for enhanced scratch and dent resistance. A dense engineered hardwood in a harder species like oak or hickory will hold up better than softer woods.
 

What works best in basements?

Skip solid hardwood — too risky with all the moisture. Instead, choose waterproof vinyl or engineered hardwood with the right moisture barrier.

Do plank thickness and core density matter?

Yep! Thicker planks correlate to flooring durability, plus they feel sturdier underfoot. Denser cores help resist dents and moisture. For engineered hardwood, a thicker top layer also means you may be able to refinish it down the road.

Can you refinish engineered hardwood?

Sometimes. It depends on the thickness of the veneer (the real-wood top layer). A thick veneer may allow for a couple of sandings. A thin one? Probably not.

What does FloorScore® Certified mean?

It’s all about air quality. FloorScore® certification means the product has been tested for low-VOC emissions, making it a healthier choice for your home.

The Bottom Line

Flooring doesn’t have to be confusing. Think about what matters most to you — waterproofing, scratch resistance, refinishing, or air quality — and match the product to your lifestyle. With the right pick, you’ll spend less time stressing over spills and scratches and more time enjoying your beautiful new floors.

To explore high-performance hard surface flooring options from Mohawk, find a retailer near you.