Does hardwood or tile add more home value?

Hardwood generally adds more resale value overall, with real estate agents consistently ranking it as the top flooring choice for home sales. Tile adds value in kitchens and bathrooms.

Can you put tile over hardwood floors?

It's not recommended. The wood subfloor expands and contracts with humidity changes, which can crack tile and grout. A proper cement board underlayment should be installed first.

Which is cheaper to maintain long-term?

Tile is cheaper to maintain day-to-day, needing only occasional grout sealing. Hardwood needs periodic refinishing ($3-$5/sq ft) every 7-10 years but can last a century with proper care.

flooring

Tile vs Hardwood Flooring: Complete Comparison Guide (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated June 19, 2026|Sources & methodology

Tile and hardwood are two of the most timeless flooring choices for homeowners. Tile excels in wet areas and offers virtually unlimited design options, while hardwood provides warmth, beauty, and proven resale value. Choosing between them depends on your budget, lifestyle, and which rooms you're flooring.

Tile

Hardwood

Key Takeaways

Tile and hardwood are two of the most timeless flooring choices for homeowners.
Tile excels in wet areas and offers virtually unlimited design options, while hardwood provides warmth, beauty, and proven resale value.
Choosing between them depends on your budget, lifestyle, and which rooms you're flooring.
Neither is universally better.
Tile dominates in wet and high-traffic utility areas.

Property	Tile	Hardwood
Price/Sq Ft Installed	$5-$15	$6-$18
Water Resistance	Excellent	Poor
Durability	Excellent - decades	Good - can be refinished
Comfort	Cold and hard	Warm and comfortable
Maintenance	Low - grout needs sealing	Moderate - refinish every 7-10 years
Resale Value	Good	Excellent
Lifespan	50-100 years	25-100 years with refinishing

Tile

Pros

Waterproof, Extremely durable, Low maintenance, Huge variety of styles and patterns

Cons

Cold and hard underfoot, Grout requires maintenance, Can crack from impacts, Professional installation recommended

Hardwood

Pros

Warm and comfortable underfoot, Excellent resale value, Can be refinished multiple times, Timeless natural beauty

Cons

Susceptible to water damage, Scratches and dents over time, Higher upfront cost, Not suitable for wet areas

Best Use Cases

Choose tile for bathrooms, kitchens, entryways, and laundry rooms. Choose hardwood for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and hallways where warmth and resale value matter.

Verdict

Neither is universally better. Tile dominates in wet and high-traffic utility areas. Hardwood wins in living spaces for beauty and comfort. Many homes benefit from using both strategically.