Choosing the right floor is one of the most important decisions you will make during a renovation. Across Canada, the choice is particularly demanding because our floors have to withstand long winters, humid summers, melting snow and de-icing salt tracked in on every boot.
Buyers notice floors immediately. Old, stained carpet, scratched hardwood or mismatched flooring create a message suggesting that the house has been neglected. Meanwhile, beautiful updated floors helps make a house look bright and well-maintained, which may help it sell faster.
Vinyl plank is usually the go-to floor for lower levels. Most LVP collections are completely waterproof, meaning they will not be damaged if humidity happens. SPC and WPC vinyl can also hide minor nEWsGaRbAze.xYz imperfections in the slab.
When shopping for new floors, most of the attention goes to colour, the style and the price per square foot. However what you put under your planks is just as important. A good underlayment can make a big difference in comfort, noise levels and protection against moisture, while can help your new floor perform better.
One of its main jobs is to provide noise control. Laminate and click vinyl can sound hollow if installed directly on the subfloor. A good acoustic underlay dampens footstep noise, which is especially important in apartments and condos where building rules frequently require minimum sound ratings.
The number one selling point of vinyl plank is its resistance to moisture. In contrast to solid hardwood, a well-made LVP does not swell or cup because of water. That makes it an excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms and basements.
First of all, what exactly is underlayment? It’s a layer of material installed between the subfloor and the flooring. Depending on the product, it can be made of felt and combined with a vapour barrier.
Porcelain tile is virtually waterproof, though it feels chilly if you do not install in-floor heating. Wall-to-wall carpet, on the other hand, feels warm yet can absorb humidity, so area rugs are often a better solution.
Real wood is a feature buyers ask for most. Engineered hardwood delivers that same premium look with more flexibility across the seasons. If you need to control costs, LVP or laminate is able to deliver an equally attractive wood look for less.
If you are thinking of selling in the near future, or you simply want to refresh your living space, updating your floors is one of the best renovations to consider. Floors cover almost every square foot of a house, which means they have a major impact on how buyers feel.
In recent years, vinyl plank flooring has grown into one of the best-selling types of flooring in Canada. The reasons are easy to understand: it delivers a beautiful wood look, it handles water, and it suits almost any budget.
If you are shopping for LVP for your renovation, it is worth taking time to compare thicknesses and look at real samples. You will find many styles at this Canadian flooring retailer before making your final choice.
Humidity is also very important. During the heating season, the air in your home gets very dry, causing natural wood to shrink and gaps to appear. A whole-house humidifier to maintain indoor humidity at a stable level helps protect your wood floors as well as your comfort.
Durability is one more strong point. Most vinyl planks include a wear layer on top that protects against scratches, marks and fading. Families with kids and pets love how little care it needs: a quick sweep and a light mop are all it takes.
Underlayment also compensates for minor imperfections in the subfloor and adds some cushioning and warmth. Remember, however, it is not a substitute for proper subfloor preparation: big height differences should be levelled beforehand.
The first step is to look at the purpose of each room. A mudroom calls for something tough and easy to clean, whereas a bedroom can prioritize comfort and warmth. Kitchens benefit from moisture-resistant materials such as vinyl plank or porcelain tile.
Renovating a basement is an excellent way to gain extra square footage and comfort to your home. However lower levels come with specific problems: concrete slabs, humidity plus chilly surfaces. The wrong floor may result in mildew, swelling and expensive replacements.
The Canadian climate plays a major role. Traditional solid wood shrinks and swells with changes in humidity, so it should be installed once it has acclimatized and controlled humidity. Engineered hardwood provides the same natural look with improved resistance to movement, making it a favourite across the country.
Cost remains a major consideration. Today’s laminate offers a natural-looking finish at a lower price, and luxury vinyl blends affordability with excellent water resistance. Remember to factor in underlayment, baseboards, and labour in your estimate.
Comfort underfoot is also important, especially in Canadian winters. Luxury vinyl is warmer under your feet compared to porcelain or stone, and several collections come with a built-in underlay that reduces noise.