Picking a new floor is one of the most important decisions homeowners make during a remodeling project. Across Canada, the selection is particularly important because our floors must withstand cold, dry winters, humid summers, melting snow and de-icing salt carried in on every boot.
Natural hardwood is a timeless option. It adds warmth that no imitation fully matches, and it is often refinished many times during its lifespan. Being able to refinish it means a hardwood floor can last for decades. It usually increases resale value across Canada.
So, which one makes sense? If authentic material plus the ability to refinish are what you want, choose real wood. When cost, durability and low upkeep top your list, quality laminate is a smart choice.
Start at the door. Put a sturdy outdoor mat and a washable absorbent rug indoors the main entrances. Two mats stops much of the salt and grit before it can scratch the rest of the house. Add a boot tray to make sure snowy boots aren’t left on your flooring.
Engineered wood can also work for those who want real wood. Because of its cross-ply structure, engineered wood resists humidity changes better than solid hardwood, and solid wood should generally be avoided in basements. Always use an appropriate underlay to protect it.
Cost is also a key factor. Laminate provides convincing wood visuals at an affordable cost, and LVP blends affordability and great water resistance. Don’t forget to include the underlay, trims and moldings, and installation in your total cost.
Is hardwood an option? It is possible, though choose wisely. Dense species such as hickory, maple and oak resist dents better, while wire-brushed textures or distressed or hand-scraped textures disguise small scratches far better than high-gloss finishes.
Vinyl plank is often the go-to floor for lower levels. Most LVP collections are fully water-resistant, so they won’t swell or rot when a small leak appears. SPC and WPC planks also tolerate small irregularities in the concrete.
Quality laminate is also a strong option. Its protective top layer stays tough against scratches, often more than other floors. Select laminates with an AC4 or AC5 rating as well as water-resistant features for families with pets.
Before anything else, test for moisture in the slab. A basic moisture test for example taping a plastic sheet onto the slab for 24 to 48 hours will indicate any moisture problem. Address any leaks prior to installing any floor.
Turning a basement into living space is a great way to add living space and value in your house. But basements come with special challenges: concrete slabs, dampness and chilly surfaces. The wrong floor may result in mildew, swelling and expensive replacements.
If you share your home with little ones and four-legged friends, you already know that floors take a beating. Claws, toy cars and blocks, accidents and snow and slush quickly stain a poorly chosen floor in no time. Luckily: today’s floor materials are built to handle real life.
LVP is usually the number one pick for busy homes. It’s water-resistant, meaning pet accidents are no big deal. A thick wear layer will help resist scuffs, and the cushioned feel is quieter for kids playing on the floor.
Indoor humidity is also another key factor. When the furnace is running, indoor air often becomes very dry, which causes wood floors to contract and small gaps to form. Using a humidifier keeping indoor humidity at a stable level benefits your wood floors as well as your health.
In recent years, vinyl plank flooring has turned into one of the most popular flooring options across the country. There are good reasons for that: it looks like real wood, it stands up to spills, and it suits a wide range of budgets.
The first thing to do is to look at the way you live in each space. A mudroom requires something tough and easy to clean, while a master bedroom can prioritize softness and https://gratisafhalen.be/author/berniebrann/ style. Kitchens are best served by moisture-resistant materials like vinyl plank or porcelain tile.
Salt residue leaves a hazy residue that will dull the surface of most floors. Wipe up salty puddles quickly using a damp microfibre mop together with a cleaner made for your type of floor. Avoid excess water on wood-based floors.
Climate plays an important role. Solid hardwood expands and contracts as humidity rises and falls, so it performs best once it has acclimatized and a good humidifier in winter. Engineered wood provides the beauty of real wood with greater dimensional stability, which makes it a smart option across the country.
Porcelain tile is virtually waterproof, although it can feel cold unless you add in-floor heating. Wall-to-wall carpet, meanwhile, adds comfort yet may hold moisture, which is why area rugs tend to be a more practical choice.
Last but not least, make sure you bring samples home under your own lights. Finishes may appear completely different at home. If you want helpful advice and a wide selection of quality flooring products, take a look at this Canadian flooring store before you make your final decision.