General Flooring
Hardwood vs. RevWood: A Flooring Expert Breaks Down the Best Choice for Your Indianapolis Home
| Jul 30, 2025
Side-by-side comparison of RevWood and hardwood flooring in a living room, showing color and texture differences by Best Flooring Indianapolis.
Hardwood vs. RevWood: A Flooring Expert Breaks Down the Best Choice for Your Indianapolis Home
If you're shopping for new floors, there's a good chance hardwood flooring and innovative alternatives like RevWood are part of your consideration. Both offer stunning looks, long-term value, and the potential to completely transform your space. But they each bring something different to the table, and understanding those differences is the key to choosing what works best for your lifestyle, your home, and your budget.
In this guide, we're diving into what makes hardwood and RevWood unique, outlining the pros and cons of each, and helping you understand which one might be the best fit. Whether you're designing your forever home or simply refreshing your floors, Best Flooring Outlet is here to help you make the right choice.
What is RevWood and How Does it Compare to Hardwood?
RevWood is a high-performance laminate flooring created by Mohawk that offers the natural beauty of wood with added durability and water resistance. Unlike hardwood, which is made from real wood species, RevWood is constructed from compressed wood fiber boards topped with a high-resolution wood image and a wear-resistant finish.
RevWood is often considered the go-to choice for families who want the warmth of hardwood without the higher cost or long-term maintenance. Proudly made in the USA, it reflects the best of American innovation and is a popular flooring solution for busy households that don’t want to compromise on appearance or performance.
You can learn more about the RevWood Premium Laminated Wood product line here.
The Beauty of Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood floors bring a timeless, organic warmth that’s hard to replicate. Every plank is unique, showcasing natural grain patterns and variations that add richness and character to your space. Hardwood flooring has long been associated with luxury and lasting value.
Advantages of Hardwood:
- Natural material with high resale value
- Can be sanded and refinished multiple times
- Adds depth and warmth to any style of home
- Works well in formal spaces and master bedrooms
What to Know:
- Sensitive to humidity and temperature changes
- More prone to scratches, dents, and stains
- Requires regular care and occasional refinishing
- Higher upfront cost for materials and installation
For more information on what to expect, explore our hardwood flooring services.
Why RevWood Might Be the Best Fit for Your Home
RevWood is designed to provide the look of real wood with outstanding everyday performance. Because it’s water-resistant and highly durable, it’s ideal for families with children, pets, or active lifestyles. It also tends to be more affordable, making it a great solution for budget-conscious remodels.
Advantages of RevWood:
- Waterproof or water-resistant (varies by style)
- Scratch- and dent-resistant surface
- No waxing, polishing, or refinishing required
- Typically more affordable than hardwood
- Quick installation with click-lock systems
What to Know:
- Cannot be refinished once worn
- Texture and feel are synthetic, though very realistic
- May not increase resale value as much as solid hardwood
RevWood vs. Hardwood: Side-by-Side Comparison
|
Feature |
Hardwood Flooring |
RevWood Flooring |
|
Material |
Solid or engineered wood |
Laminated wood (fiber core) |
|
Appearance |
Authentic and natural |
Highly realistic wood-look |
|
Water Resistance |
Low to moderate |
High (some styles waterproof) |
|
Scratch Resistance |
Moderate |
High |
|
Maintenance |
Needs refinishing, polishing |
Easy care, no refinishing |
|
Cost |
Higher |
More affordable |
|
Installation |
Nail, glue, or float |
Click-lock (DIY-friendly) |
|
Best For |
Living rooms, bedrooms, resale |
Kitchens, basements, homes with pets |
How to Choose the Right Flooring for Your Lifestyle
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best flooring for your home depends on how you live and what you prioritize.
- Do you want natural materials and long-term investment value? Hardwood may be the way to go.
- Do you need performance flooring that stands up to kids, pets, and spills? RevWood is likely your better option.
- Working with a tighter budget? RevWood often provides similar visual appeal at a lower cost.
- Renovating a rental or finishing a basement? RevWood’s moisture resistance makes it a practical choice.
Our team at Best Flooring Outlet offers professional flooring installation services in Indianapolis, IN, and we’re happy to walk you through every step, from material selection to installation planning.
Request a free estimate to get personalized recommendations based on your space and lifestyle.
Common Questions about Hardwood and RevWood
Does RevWood require any sealing or special upkeep over time?
No sealing or special treatment is needed. RevWood’s surface is designed to resist moisture, scratches, and stains with minimal maintenance. Just keep it clean and dry to preserve its appearance.
Can RevWood be installed in bathrooms or laundry rooms?
Yes, many RevWood collections are water-resistant or waterproof, making them suitable for moisture-prone areas. Always follow manufacturer installation guidelines to ensure long-term performance in wet environments.
Can I refinish RevWood like I can with hardwood?
No, RevWood cannot be sanded or refinished once worn. In contrast, most solid hardwood and some engineered wood can be refinished multiple times to restore their appearance.
Is RevWood easier to install than hardwood?
Yes, RevWood features a user-friendly click-lock system that’s ideal for floating installations and even DIY projects. Hardwood usually requires professional installation with glue, nails, or staples.
Which is better for homes with pets and kids?
RevWood is often the better choice for busy households, thanks to its resistance to scratches, dents, and spills. Hardwood is more vulnerable to everyday wear and tear unless regularly maintained.
What’s the best way to clean hardwood floors?
Use a microfiber mop and a hardwood-specific cleaner to avoid residue or damage. Avoid excessive moisture, steam mops, or harsh chemicals that can warp or dull the finish.
How should I clean RevWood flooring?
Sweep or vacuum regularly and use a damp microfiber mop with a mild, laminate-approved cleaner. Never use waxes, polishes, or overly wet mops on RevWood floors.
Discover the Best Flooring Options for Your Home
At the end of the day, both hardwood and RevWood have their strengths. Hardwood delivers timeless beauty and long-term value, while RevWood offers tough, family-friendly durability with the same gorgeous visual appeal. The best choice depends on your needs, your goals, and the rooms you’re upgrading.
At Best Flooring Outlet, we make it easy to compare options side by side, understand your investment, and choose a floor that fits your life. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or a quick refresh, our knowledgeable team is here to help.
We proudly offer professional flooring installation services in Indianapolis, IN, and surrounding areas like Carmel, Fishers, Greenwood, Mooresville, Westfield, and beyond.
Request a free estimate today to get started.