| Core Material |
High-density fiberboard (HDF) |
Limestone + PVC composite core |
100% natural hardwood |
Plywood or multi-layer wood core with real wood top |
Rigid SPC or WPC core + real wood veneer |
| Surface Layer |
Printed design layer + wear layer |
Vinyl wear layer with printed design |
Solid hardwood surface |
Real hardwood veneer |
Real hardwood veneer |
| Water Resistance |
Moderate — not fully waterproof |
100% waterproof |
Poor — water-sensitive |
Moderate; better than solid (but not fully waterproof) |
Waterproof or highly water-resistant |
| Durability |
Good for moderate traffic |
Very high — scratch & dent resistant |
Very durable; can be refinished many times |
Durable; can be refinished 1–2 times |
High; excellent dimensional stability |
| Appearance |
Realistic printed wood look |
Very realistic wood & stone visuals |
Natural, authentic wood grain |
Real wood look & feel |
Real wood surface with SPC core stability |
| Comfort & Warmth |
Slightly hard underfoot |
Firm; can feel cool |
Warm, natural feel |
Warmer than SPC |
Warmer and more comfortable than SPC |
| Sound Insulation |
Moderate |
Low without underlayment |
Good |
Good |
Very good |
| Installation |
Floating click system |
Floating click system |
Nail or glue down |
Floating, nail, or glue down |
Floating click system |
| Maintenance |
Easy (sweep & damp mop) |
Very easy |
Requires care; periodic refinishing |
Moderate |
Easy |
| Lifespan (typical) |
10–20 years |
20–30 years |
40–100+ years |
25–40 years |
25–40 years |
| Refinishing |
No |
No |
Yes — many times |
Limited (1–2 times) |
Limited or none |
| Ideal For |
Rental, Apartments, ADU |
Single Family Home, Investment Properties |
Luxury Homes |
Single Family Home, Premium House |
Single Family Home, Premium House |
| Cost Range (relative) |
$ |
$$ |
$$$$ |
$$$ |
$$$ |
