Tile, LVP or Hardwood? How to Choose the Right Flooring for Each Room in Your Remodel

Confused about flooring options? Learn when to use tile, luxury vinyl plank, or hardwood in your renovation — with expert tips for Massachusetts homes.

When planning a home renovation in Massachusetts, choosing the right flooring is about more than just style — it’s about climate, functionality, and long-term durability. Harsh winters, humid summers, and older home structures all influence what works best underfoot.

At Artisans Homes & Renovations, we guide clients through this choice every day. Whether you're redoing a bathroom, kitchen, or entire floor, the wrong flooring can mean warping, cracking, or costly repairs down the line. In this article, we’ll compare tile, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), and hardwood — and help you choose the best option for each space in your home.

1. Tile: Best for Wet Areas and Long-Term Durability

Ideal for:

• Bathrooms

• Mudrooms

• Laundry rooms

• Entryways

Porcelain or ceramic tile is your go-to option for moisture-prone areas. It’s durable, easy to clean, and resists scratches — perfect for New England winters where snow, salt, and slush get tracked inside.

Pros:

• Completely waterproof

• Holds up to heavy use

• Large format options help modernize small spaces

• Compatible with radiant floor heating (great for MA winters)

Cons:

• Cold underfoot without heating

• Harder surface = less forgiving on knees or dropped items

• More expensive to install (labor-intensive)

💡 Pro Tip: Use a light-colored grout with stain-resistant sealer to reduce maintenance over time.

2. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): The Best Balance for Busy Households

Ideal for:

• Kitchens

• Basements

• Kids’ playrooms

• Open-plan living areas

LVP has become a favorite in Massachusetts remodels because it offers the look of wood with the water-resistance of tile, making it perfect for homes with pets, kids, or older foundations.

Pros:

• Waterproof and scratch-resistant

• Softer underfoot and quieter than tile

• Wide variety of wood and stone looks

• Can be installed over concrete (ideal for basements)

Cons:

• Doesn’t offer the same prestige or resale boost as real hardwood

• Can expand with temperature changes if not properly acclimated

• Not as eco-friendly as natural wood or tile

💡 Pro Tip: Choose a thick, rigid core LVP with underlayment built-in to improve comfort and acoustics.

3. Hardwood: Timeless Appeal, Best for Dry Living Spaces

Ideal for:

• Living rooms

• Bedrooms

• Hallways

• Dining rooms

Genuine hardwood remains unmatched in character, warmth, and resale appeal — especially in classic New England homes. But it’s not a “set it and forget it” choice. It requires maintenance and the right conditions to thrive.

Pros:

• Adds value and prestige to the home

• Can be refinished multiple times

• Warmer feel and timeless look

• Natural material with design flexibility

Cons:

• Susceptible to moisture damage and warping

• Scratches more easily than tile or LVP

• Expensive to install and finish

💡 In Massachusetts homes: Avoid hardwood in kitchens and basements due to seasonal humidity swings.

Room-by-Room Flooring Recommendation (Massachusetts Climate):

RoomBest OptionWhyBathroomTileWaterproof, durable, heat-friendlyKitchenLVPResists spills, looks like woodLiving RoomHardwoodHigh-end finish, warm underfootBasementLVPMoisture-resistant, stable over slabEntry/MudroomTileHandles snow, water, and sandBedroomHardwood or LVPCozy, quiet, and comfortable

Cost Comparison (Installed in Massachusetts, 2025)

MaterialAvg. Installed Cost / sq. ft.Maintenance LevelLifespanTile$12–$20Low30+ yearsLVP$6–$10Low15–25 yearsHardwood$14–$22Medium–High50+ years (refinishable)

💡 Remember: Basement and older homes often require subfloor prep, which adds to cost regardless of material.

Flooring isn’t just a surface — it’s a decision that affects your daily life, comfort, and home value for years to come. In Massachusetts, where weather swings and older home construction add unique challenges, choosing the right material means balancing durability, style, and practicality.

The key is to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Tile excels in wet areas, LVP offers flexibility for busy households, and hardwood brings timeless elegance where conditions allow. By selecting each material based on how a room functions — and how it responds to the local climate — you’ll ensure your renovation pays off in both performance and beauty.

Not sure which flooring is right for your home? Let Artisans Homes & Renovations guide you through the decision. With deep knowledge of Massachusetts homes and experience in remodeling for real life, we’ll help you choose flooring that works — and lasts.
Schedule a consultation today and start building a home that fits your feet and your future.