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Carpet vs. LVP: Which Flooring Is Best? | Freedom Flooring

Written by Freedom Flooring and Design | Jul 30, 2025 6:21:38 PM

Choosing new flooring is one of the most impactful home upgrades you can make—but with so many options, knowing which material is best can be challenging. 

Today's most popular flooring choices are carpet and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Both are stylish, practical, and available in a wide range of colors and finishes. 

But when it comes to carpet vs. LVP, which is better for your home? That depends on your lifestyle, design goals, and how you use each room.

Let’s break down the pros, cons, and costs of carpet vs. LVP so you can choose the option that fits your vision, needs, and budget.

Let’s Compare Carpet vs. LVP

Here’s a side-by-side look at how carpet and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) stack up across the features that matter most:

Feature

Carpet

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

Comfort

Soft and warm underfoot—ideal for bedrooms and cozy spaces

Firm but stable feel; can be softened with underlayment or area rugs

Durability

Moderate durability; may wear faster in high-traffic areas

Highly durable and scratch-resistant; great for pets and kids

Water Resistance

Not recommended for moisture-prone areas

Excellent water resistance—perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements

Style Options

Wide variety of colors, textures, and pile types

Realistic wood and stone looks in a range of tones and plank sizes

Maintenance

Requires vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning

Easy to clean with regular sweeping and mopping

Lifespan

10–15 years with proper care

15–25 years, depending on product and wear layer thickness

Cost (Upfront & Long-Term)

Lower upfront cost, but may need to be replaced sooner

Higher upfront cost, but better long-term value and durability


Not sure which is right for you? At Freedom Flooring, we bring the showroom to your door so you can see carpet and LVP options in your own space, lighting, and layout.

Why Choose Carpet?

Great for: Cozy bedrooms, quiet living areas, and anyone prioritizing comfort.

Carpet is a timeless flooring choice for a reason. It offers warmth, softness, and a sense of coziness that’s hard to beat in areas where comfort underfoot matters most.

Pros of Carpet

  • Soft and warm underfoot – Ideal for spaces where you’re barefoot often, like bedrooms or nurseries
  • Excellent sound insulation – Helps reduce noise in busy households
  • Kid- and pet-friendly styles available – Choose stain-resistant and durable options from trusted brands like Mohawk
  • Wide range of styles – From plush neutrals to bold textures, you can find a carpet that complements your home’s aesthetic

 

Considerations

  • May stain or wear more easily in high-traffic areas
  • Requires more maintenance, including regular vacuuming and the occasional deep clean
  • Not ideal for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms or laundry rooms

Carpet is especially appealing if you want a soft, serene atmosphere, and with today’s performance fabrics, it’s more durable than ever.

 

Why Choose LVP?

Great for: Busy households, open floor plans, and high-traffic or moisture-prone areas.

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) has become one of the most popular flooring choices for good reason. It delivers the look of hardwood or stone with added durability, water resistance, and low maintenance—making it a smart solution for active homes.

Pros of Luxury Vinyl Plank

  • Extremely durable and water-resistant – Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and entryways
  • Easy to clean and maintain – Just sweep and mop to keep it looking great
  • Stylish and affordable – Mimics the appearance of real wood or stone at a fraction of the cost
  • Scratch- and dent-resistant – An excellent option for homes with kids, pets, or heavy foot traffic

Considerations

  • Firmer feel underfoot – Not as soft as carpet, though underlayment or area rugs can help
  • Slightly higher upfront cost – Compared to basic carpet, but long-term durability often makes up for it

If you want a sleek, modern look that can withstand real life, LVP is a durable, stylish choice that checks many boxes.

Carpet vs. LVP Cost Breakdown

Cost is often a deciding factor when choosing between carpet and luxury vinyl plank. But it’s not just about the upfront price; you need to consider long-term value.

Upfront Costs:

  • Carpet generally has a lower initial price point for materials and installation.
  • LVP costs more upfront but can vary depending on the brand, thickness, and wear layer.

Long-Term Value:

  • Carpets may need to be replaced sooner, especially in high-traffic areas, due to wear, stains, or matting.
  • LVP offers a longer lifespan and better durability, meaning fewer replacements and less maintenance over time.

Which Type of Flooring Matches Your Lifestyle?

Still deciding whether to go with carpet or LVP? Consider how you use your space and what matters most to you daily.

If You’re Focused on Style and Simplicity:

  • You want your flooring to feel cohesive, modern, and polished throughout your home.
  • You value a stress-free process with expert design guidance.
  • LVP might be the right choice for its clean, streamlined look and low maintenance—especially in large, open areas.
  • Carpet could also be a great option for select rooms, such as a bedroom or home office, where extra comfort and warmth are desired.

If You Need Durability for a Busy Household:

  • Your floors take a beating from kids, pets, or high foot traffic.
  • You need something tough, easy to clean, and built to last.
  • LVP is a strong contender—it easily resists scratches, dents, and spills.
  • Still want cozy spaces for downtime? Carpet makes a great addition to bedrooms, playrooms, or media rooms where sound absorption and softness matter.

No matter your priorities, there’s a flooring option that fits.

Freedom Flooring Is Here To Help You Pick the Perfect Floors

Choosing between carpet and LVP doesn’t have to be a guessing game. At Freedom Flooring, we make the process simple, convenient, and stress-free.

Here’s how we help:

  • Mobile Showroom: We bring flooring samples directly to your home so you can see how each option looks in your lighting, with your décor, and in your space.
  • Personalized Design Consultations: Our experts take the time to understand your lifestyle, design preferences, and budget, and help you confidently compare options.
  • Premium Mohawk Options: Whether you’re looking for luxury carpet or waterproof LVP, we offer stylish, durable flooring backed by Mohawk's industry-leading warranties. 
  • Seamless Installation: Our experienced team handles everything from start to finish, so there’s no juggling multiple contractors or dealing with unexpected delays.

Let’s Find the Right Flooring for Your Home

Both carpet and LVP offer style, comfort, and long-term value, but the best choice depends on your unique space and lifestyle. Whether you’re designing your dream home or upgrading rooms that see everyday wear and tear, Freedom Flooring is here to help you make a decision you’ll feel great about.

From your first consultation to the final installation, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Ready to compare carpet and LVP in your home? Book your in-home consultation today and let our mobile showroom come to you.