Hardwood vs. Vinyl in NYC Apartments: A Real Comparison
Published on May 8, 2026
Our Story: From Distribution to Direct-to-Consumer
Our founders worked in flooring distribution for over a decade. They saw firsthand how major manufacturers would clear out “closeout lots” — perfect, premium runs of hardwood, vinyl, and tile that were simply discontinued or overproduced. These lots were sold for pennies on the dollar, but everyday buyers never saw the savings.
We opened Elegant Floors in Brooklyn to change that. We buy these premium closeout lots directly and pass the savings on to you. Our shop-and-install model means we don’t just sell you the materials; our expert team handles the entire installation process, from navigating strict Manhattan co-op boards to leveling prewar subfloors in Park Slope brownstones
Why "Closeout" Doesn't Mean "Second-Rate"
A common misconception is that closeout flooring is defective. In reality, closeout simply means a manufacturer is making room for next year’s styles. You get the exact same premium European oak, luxury waterproof vinyl, or Italian porcelain tile, just without the luxury retail markup.
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