Tile Flooring vs. LVP: Which Is Better for Olympia Homes?

If you're deciding between tile or LVP for your Olympia flooring installation, you're not alone. These two materials are top choices for local homeowners—and for good reason. Both are durable, water-resistant, and stylish, but they perform differently depending on your lifestyle, home layout, and budget.

At Mountain Peak Construction, we’ve installed hundreds of floors in Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater. Here's our expert breakdown of how tile and LVP compare so you can make the right call for your space.

What Is Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)?

LVP is a synthetic flooring that mimics hardwood, stone, or tile—but at a lower cost and with less maintenance. It’s made of several layers that include a wear layer, printed design, and waterproof core.

Popular in Olympia homes for:

• Kitchens

• Bathrooms

• Basements

• High-traffic areas

What Is Tile Flooring?

Tile is a classic option made from ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone. It’s fired at high temperatures, making it extremely durable and long-lasting. It’s ideal for moisture-prone areas or rooms where you want a sleek, high-end feel.

Common in:

• Bathrooms

• Entryways

• Kitchens

• Laundry rooms

Pros and Cons: LVP vs. Tile

Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you weigh the options:

Feature	Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)	Tile Flooring
Cost	Lower material & labor cost	Higher material & install cost
Water Resistance	100% waterproof	100% waterproof (especially porcelain)
Comfort	Warmer & softer underfoot	Harder & colder
Style Variety	Imitates wood, tile, and stone	Natural and designer looks
Durability	Highly durable	Extremely durable, can last decades
Installation Time	Faster install	Requires more prep & setting
Maintenance	Easy—just sweep & mop	Grout lines require more cleaning
Resale Value	Good	Excellent, especially for porcelain & stone

Olympia Climate Tip: Moisture Matters

Western Washington’s wet climate makes moisture resistance a must. Both tile and LVP perform well in damp environments, but LVP is less cold underfoot—a plus in Olympia winters—while tile handles radiant heat systems better.

Design Trends in Olympia Homes

We’re seeing some creative uses of both materials in local remodels:

• LVP with wood texture in kitchens and hallways

• Hexagon or large-format tile in bathrooms

• Mix-and-match: LVP in living areas, tile in bathrooms and laundry rooms

• Matte finishes and earth tones in both materials

If you're aiming for a cohesive design, we can help select materials that flow seamlessly from one room to the next—even when combining tile and LVP.

Pro Tip: Don’t Skip the Subfloor

Whether you're installing tile or LVP, the quality of your subfloor matters. We prep and level floors to prevent cracking, squeaking, or gapping later on. In older Olympia homes, this often means correcting sloping or squeaky floors first—especially before laying tile.

Cost Breakdown

Here's what you can generally expect for a professionally installed floor in Olympia:

Material	Price Range (Installed)
LVP	$6–$9 per sq. ft.
Tile	$10–$20+ per sq. ft. (varies by type and layout)

Remember to factor in demo costs if you’re removing old flooring, and 10% material overage to ensure proper coverage.

For example, a 1,000 sq. ft. floor might cost:

• LVP: ~$7,500 installed

• Tile: ~$14,000 installed

Check out our flooring services for more details and to request a custom estimate.

What About Pets and Kids?

Both LVP and tile are great for active households. However:

• LVP has better impact resistance (less likely to crack)

• Tile is scratch-resistant but can be slippery when wet

• LVP is quieter—especially important in multi-level homes

Final Thoughts: What’s Best for You?

If you're still torn, here’s a quick summary:

• Choose LVP if you want warmth, easy maintenance, and a quicker install.

• Choose tile if you want premium durability, radiant heat compatibility, and a long-term investment.

Better yet? Let’s talk through your space and help you pick the right fit. We’re local pros who understand Olympia’s unique needs, from climate to code compliance.