If you are planning to sell soon, or you just want to make your home more comfortable, new flooring is one of the smartest renovations available. The floor take up nearly the entire surface of your home, which means they have a huge impact on the overall look.
Tile is extremely durable, though it can feel cold underfoot unless combine it with radiant floor heating. Wall-to-wall carpet, meanwhile, feels warm but can trap moisture, so area rugs tend to be a more practical choice.
What about hardwood in wet areas? Water-resistant laminate are a valid option for kitchens, if water is cleaned up quickly. Engineered hardwood can also be used in kitchens if you are careful, however in bathrooms, tile and vinyl stay the recommended options.
Quality laminate makes a good contender. Its protective top layer is very resistant to scratches, sometimes more than other floors. Look for laminates with a high abrasion rating and water-resistant edges for the best performance.
Before choosing a floor, check for moisture of the concrete. A basic moisture test for example taping a square of plastic onto the slab for 24 to 48 hours can reveal any moisture problem. Fix drainage issues before you install new flooring.
LVP is usually the top option below grade. Several vinyl products are completely waterproof, meaning they will not swell or rot when humidity shows up. SPC and WPC planks can also bridge small irregularities in the slab.
Engineered wood is another option for those who want natural wood. Due to its cross-ply structure, it tolerates humidity changes better than solid hardwood, which is a poor choice in basements. Install it with a moisture barrier to protect it.
Porcelain tile remain a classic option. Tiles are virtually waterproof, very durable and comes in endless patterns, from wood-look planks and concrete-style finishes. Choose a textured or matte surface for bathrooms, and think about radiant heating for extra comfort.
Luxury vinyl are now a top choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Fully waterproof constructions ensure that standing water won’t damage your investment as long as you clean them up. LVP feels softer under bare feet than ceramic, which is a big bonus on cold Canadian mornings.
If you live with dogs, cats or young children, you already know that floors take a beating. Paws, toys, juice spills and wet paws quickly stain a delicate surface in no time. Fortunately: today’s flooring products are built to survive everyday chaos.
Flooring is one of the first things buyers notice. Dated carpet, damaged wood floors or chipped tile send a signal that the house requires repairs. On the other hand, beautiful updated floors can make a home feel clean and modern, and that may help it stand out.
Everything starts at the entrance. Place a heavy-duty mat outside and a soft absorbent mat inside each door. Using both catches much of the salt and grit before it can scratch your floors. Set up a boot rack to make sure dripping shoes never sit on the floor.
Hardwood floors continues to be one of the features many buyers look for. Engineered hardwood offers the same natural look and better stability across the seasons. For a smaller budget, quality laminate can deliver a comparable wood look at a lower cost.
Renovating a basement is a great way to add living space and resale value to your home. However lower levels come with specific problems: cold concrete, dampness plus lower temperatures. Choosing the wrong flooring may result in mildew, swelling and wasted money.
Indoor humidity also matters and is very important. During the heating season, the air inside can become very dry, causing wood floors to shrink and small gaps to form. A whole-house humidifier keeping humidity in a moderate range helps protect your floors as well as your health.
What about hardwood? It is possible, but choose wisely. Dense species like hickory and white oak are more resistant, and low-sheen finishes and natural grain patterns disguise small scratches better than glossy floors.
Road salt often leaves a white film that can dull the surface of hardwood, laminate and vinyl. Wipe up salty puddles as soon as possible with a slightly damp cloth and a floor-specific cleaner. Never use soaking the floor on wood and laminate.
Winter in Canada are beautiful, but it is hard on flooring. Slush, road salt, gravel and low indoor humidity can all damage your floors pop over to this site time. With some simple precautions, it is easy to keep your flooring in top shape through the winter.
Vinyl plank flooring is often the number one pick for pet owners. It is waterproof, meaning pet accidents become no big deal. A thick wear layer helps prevent scuffs, and the cushioned feel feels more comfortable for kids playing on the floor.
If you are considering luxury vinyl for your next project, it is worth taking time to compare collections and look at real samples. You can explore a great selection at vinyl plank flooring in Canada to find a style that matches your home.
