Selecting new flooring is one of the biggest decisions you will make during a remodeling project. Here in Canada, the decision is even more critical because our homes need to handle cold, dry winters, muggy summers, slush and salt tracked in at the door.
De-icing salt often leaves a white film that will damage the finish of hardwood, laminate and vinyl. Remove residue as soon as possible with a slightly damp cloth together with a floor-specific cleaner. Never use excess water on hardwood and laminate.
The first thing to do is to think about how each room is used. A mudroom requires something tough and easy to clean, while a master bedroom may prioritize warmth underfoot. Kitchens and bathrooms work best with moisture-resistant options such as vinyl plank or tile.
Its first role is noise control. Floors that are not glued down may sound noisy if installed directly on the subfloor. A quality underlayment reduces that hollow sound, something that is especially important in multi-storey homes in which building rules may demand a minimum IIC or STC rating.
Your budget is also a major consideration. Laminate offers a realistic wood look at a lower price, and luxury vinyl blends value and excellent water resistance. Don’t forget to include the underlay, transitions, and installation in your total cost.
Seasonal change also plays a big role. Traditional solid wood shrinks and swells as humidity rises and falls, so it is best installed with proper acclimatization and a good humidifier in winter. Engineered wood gives you the same natural look but with much better resistance to movement, making it a favourite for Canadian homes.
When shopping for new floors, they tend to focus on the colour, the style and the price per square foot. But what lies beneath the floor matters just as much. The right underlayment can make a big difference in how the floor feels, noise levels and protection against moisture, while it helps your new floor stay beautiful for years.
The cold season in Canada are picturesque, but winter is hard on flooring. Snow, road salt, sand and dry indoor air can damage even the best floors if you are not careful. With the right routine, you can keep your flooring in top shape all season long.
Underlayment also compensates for slight unevenness in the subfloor and adds a bit of softness underfoot. Note, however, that cannot replace levelling the subfloor: big height differences should be corrected beforehand.
Modern laminate has improved a lot. High-quality laminate products feature high-definition images and embossed textures that feel very natural. The protective surface makes it resistant to daily wear, and it is priced at a fraction of the cost of hardwood. A growing number of collections even provide improved water resistance.
When it comes to a classic wood look, two materials typically come up first: laminate flooring and natural hardwood. Both are attractive, yet they differ a lot when it comes to cost, durability and maintenance.
The first line of defence is the entrance. Put a heavy-duty mat outside and a soft absorbent mat inside each door. Two mats traps the majority of the dirt and salt before it gets to the rest of the house. Set up a boot rack to make sure wet boots aren’t left directly on the floor.
One important note: many vinyl and laminate products include a built-in underlay. If so, adding another underlay may lead to movement and cancel your warranty. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Natural hardwood remains the classic choice. It adds natural character that many buyers love, and it is often sanded and refinished several times during its lifespan. Being able to refinish it means a hardwood floor can last for decades. It usually increases resale value in many markets.
Luxury vinyl have quickly become a top choice for both rooms. Waterproof cores mean that splashes will not ruin the planks if cleaned up promptly. LVP is also warmer under bare feet than tile, which is a real plus during winter.
Before you buy, always look at samples in your own lighting. Finishes can look at here very different at home. If you want helpful advice and a large selection of floors for every room, visit this Canadian flooring store to find the floor that fits your home.
Over the past few years, vinyl plank flooring has grown into one of the most requested flooring options across the country. It is easy to see why: it looks great, it stands up to spills, and it fits almost any budget.
Moisture levels is very important. During the heating season, the air inside can become very dry, causing natural wood to shrink and cracks to open. Using a humidifier that keeps indoor humidity at a stable level protects your wood floors and your furniture.
And what about laminate in wet areas? Some modern laminates are a valid option in kitchens, provided that spills are wiped up promptly. Wood can also work in a kitchen with care, but in bathrooms with a shower or tub, tile and vinyl are the safer choices.