So, which one should you choose? If the real thing plus the ability to refinish are what you want, consider engineered or solid hardwood. When cost, scratch resistance and easy maintenance top your list, laminate is hard to beat.
Homes in Canada go through significant seasonal swings every year. During winter, furnaces dehydrate indoor air; during summer, humidity climb quickly. For wood floors, that constant movement can cause gapping, cupping and movement.
A cohesive look also counts. A mix of flooring types throughout the house often makes rooms feel disjointed. Running the same floor across the main floor creates a clean, open feel that feels more modern.
Road salt leaves white marks which may damage the protective layer of hardwood, laminate and vinyl. Clean salt marks promptly with a damp microfibre mop together with a cleaner made for your type of floor. Stay away from steam mops on hardwood and laminate.
That is exactly where engineered wood makes a difference. Rather than being made from one solid board, an engineered plank consists of cross-layered plies: a top layer of real wood on top of a stable core. The cross-layered construction limits seasonal movement.
Ceramic and porcelain tile is virtually waterproof, although it tends to feel chilly unless combine it with in-floor heating. Wall-to-wall carpet, meanwhile, adds comfort yet can trap moisture, so rugs over a hard floor are often a safer bet.
Buyers notice floors right away. Worn carpet, damaged wood floors or chipped tile give the impression that the property has been neglected. Meanwhile, new, consistent flooring helps make a property feel bright and well-maintained, which may help it stand out.
Luxury vinyl plank is usually the go-to floor below grade. Many LVP collections are completely water-resistant, meaning they will not be damaged when humidity appears. SPC and WPC planks also hide minor imperfections in the slab.
Real hardwood remains the classic choice. It brings warmth that no imitation fully matches, and it is often refinished many times during its lifespan. That ability allows a hardwood floor to last a very long time. It also adds resale value in most cities.
Humidity is also critical. In winter, indoor air can become too dry, Afghanglobalconnect.com causing hardwood to shrink and cracks to form. Using a humidifier that keeps humidity in a moderate range benefits your wood floors and your furniture.
Before buying, pay attention to the veneer thickness. A heavier top layer means you can refinish the floor in the future, extending the life of your floor. Don’t forget to control humidity at a steady level for best results.
Canadian winters can be beautiful, yet they are hard on flooring. Slush, calcium chloride, sand and dry indoor air will dull even the best floors if left unchecked. With some simple precautions, it is easy to keep your flooring beautiful through the winter.
Turning a basement into living space is an excellent way to increase the usable space and value to your home. However lower levels bring special challenges: cold concrete, moisture and lower temperatures. A poor flooring choice often causes mildew, swelling and wasted money.
Laminate has evolved significantly. Good laminate feature realistic printed designs and textured surfaces that appear very realistic. The wear layer makes it very resistant to scratches, and it is priced at a fraction of the cost of hardwood. Many collections now include better moisture protection.
Hardwood continues to be one of the features buyers ask for most. Engineered hardwood gives you the same natural look and greater stability in Canadian conditions. If your budget is tighter, luxury vinyl plank is able to create an equally attractive wood look at a fraction of the price.
If you plan to put your house on the market in the near future, or you are looking to make your home more comfortable, updating your floors is easily one of the best investments available. Floors take up nearly the entire surface of your home, which means they have a huge impact on the overall look.
The number one selling point of LVP is that many products are waterproof. Unlike natural wood, a quality vinyl plank does not swell or cup after contact with spills. It is therefore an ideal option for basements, laundry rooms and entryways.
Start at the door. Put a sturdy outdoor mat and a soft absorbent mat inside the main entrances. Using both stops much of the snow and grit before it can scratch your floors. Add a waterproof tray to make sure wet boots never sit on your flooring.
Engineered wood can also work for those who want real wood. Due to its stable core, it handles humidity changes much better than solid wood, and solid wood should generally be avoided on concrete. Use an appropriate underlay to protect it.
Durability is also a strong point. The best vinyl planks come with a wear layer on top designed to resist everyday wear, stains and UV fading. Families with kids and pets appreciate the low maintenance: regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping are all it takes.