Houses across Canada go through big humidity changes every year. In the cold months, our heaters pull moisture from indoor air; in summer, humidity climb quickly. For wood flooring, this cycle often leads to gapping, warping and squeaks.
Last but not least, always look at samples under your own lights. Colours may appear quite different at home. For expert advice and a wide selection of hardwood, laminate and vinyl, check out canadafloorsdepot.com to find the floor that fits your home.
One of its main jobs is to provide acoustic insulation. Laminate and click vinyl may sound hollow without proper underlayment. A quality underlayment absorbs footstep noise, something that is essential in multi-storey homes in which condo boards may set minimum sound ratings.
Can you still have hardwood? Absolutely, but be selective. Harder woods like oak, maple or hickory resist dents better, and low-sheen finishes and natural grain patterns hide everyday wear better than high-gloss finishes.
If you live with pets and kids, you already know that floors suffer. Paws, toys, spills and snow and slush will wear down the wrong floor in a few months. The good news: current flooring products are made to survive real life.
Choosing the right floor is among the most significant decisions you will make during a renovation. Across Canada, the selection is particularly important because our floors must survive cold, dry winters, warm and humid summers, snow and road salt carried in at the door.
The kitchen and the bathroom rank among the busiest rooms in the house. They see splashes, moisture, heavy foot traffic and constant cleaning. The floor you install here must be waterproof, tough and low maintenance while still offering good looks.
High-quality laminate makes a good contender. Its protective top layer is tough against scratches, often more than other floors. Select products with a high AC rating plus water-resistant features for families with pets.
A good underlay also hides minor imperfections in the subfloor and gives some cushioning and warmth. Keep in mind, though, it cannot replace proper subfloor preparation: large dips and bumps should be fixed beforehand.
When shopping, check the veneer thickness. A thicker top layer allows sand it down the road, increasing its lifespan. Don’t forget to maintain humidity between roughly 35 and 55 percent with a humidifier in winter.
Winter in Canada can be picturesque, however winter is tough on floors. Melting snow, road salt, gravel and dry indoor air will wear out your flooring if left unchecked. With a few simple habits, you can keep your floors in top shape all season long.
What you get is flooring that feels identical to traditional wood while stays more stable through the seasons. Since it moves less, engineered hardwood can be used in places in which solid hardwood is not recommended, including basements and over concrete slabs.
Moisture levels is also critical. When the furnace is running, the air inside can become very dry, causing hardwood to contract and cracks to open. A humidifier to maintain indoor iSTAnBulClaSSE.NeT humidity in a moderate range benefits your floors as well as your health.
Climate has a big role. Natural hardwood moves with changes in humidity, so it should be installed after proper acclimatization and controlled humidity. Engineered hardwood gives you the same natural look with improved stability, which makes it a favourite for Canadian homes.
Your starting point is to think about the purpose of each room. A mudroom needs something tough and easy to clean, while a bedroom can focus more on softness and style. Wet areas work best with water-resistant materials like LVP or porcelain tile.
When shopping for new floors, most of the attention goes to the colour, style and the price per square foot. However what you put under the boards plays an equally important role. A good underlayment can improve comfort, sound and protection against moisture, and it helps your flooring perform better.
Can you use laminate in wet areas? Water-resistant laminate can work well in kitchens, if moisture is dealt with promptly. Wood may also work in kitchens with care, however in full bathrooms, tile and vinyl remain the safer choices.
Salt residue often leaves a hazy residue that can dull the protective layer of hardwood, laminate and vinyl. Wipe up salt marks as soon as possible with a soft mop together with a floor-specific cleaner. Stay away from steam mops on wood and laminate.
Luxury vinyl plank and tile are now a top choice in wet areas. Fully waterproof constructions guarantee that splashes cannot harm the planks when wiped up quickly. Vinyl is also more comfortable underfoot than tile, something a real plus in the cold season.
Everything starts at the entrance. Put a rough outdoor mat plus an absorbent mat inside the main entrances. This combination stops the majority of the snow and grit before it reaches the rest of the house. Set up a boot tray to make sure wet boots aren’t left on your flooring.
