When people shop for flooring, most of the attention goes to colour, the style and the price per square foot. Yet what you put under the boards plays an equally important role. The right underlayment can improve how the floor feels, similar internet page sound and protection against moisture, and can help your new floor stay beautiful for years.
Ultimately, which one makes sense? When the real thing and the ability to refinish are your priority, choose real wood. When budget, scratch resistance and easy maintenance are more important, laminate is hard to beat.
Luxury vinyl have quickly become the most popular choice in wet areas. Fully waterproof constructions ensure that splashes cannot harm your investment if cleaned up promptly. Vinyl stays more comfortable under bare feet than tile, which is much appreciated on cold Canadian mornings.
Engineered wood is another option for those who want real wood. Because of its layered construction, engineered wood resists moisture swings much better than solid hardwood, which should generally be avoided in basements. Always use an appropriate underlay for long-term performance.
Today’s laminate flooring has come a long way dramatically. Premium laminate feature realistic printed designs and textured surfaces that appear very realistic. Its wear layer keeps it resistant to scuffs and scratches, and it is priced at a fraction of the cost of hardwood. A growing number of collections also offer better moisture protection.
If you share your home with pets and kids, you have probably learned how quickly floors take a beating. Pet nails, toys, accidents and wet paws will stain a delicate surface in a few months. Fortunately: current floor options are built to survive busy family life.
LVP is often the go-to floor for basements. Several LVP collections are completely water-resistant, meaning they won’t swell or rot when moisture shows up. Rigid-core vinyl also hide minor imperfections in the concrete.
Vinyl plank flooring is often at the top of the list for busy homes. It is waterproof or highly water-resistant, so spilled drinks are no big deal. A durable top layer helps prevent scuffs, while its softer feel feels quieter than tile.
Choosing a new floor is among the most significant decisions you will make during a renovation. Here in Canada, the decision is even more demanding because our floors need to handle long winters, muggy summers, melting snow and de-icing salt tracked in on every boot.
When it comes to a classic wood look, two options usually lead the conversation: laminate flooring and real hardwood. Both are stunning, but they have important differences when it comes to price, performance and lifespan.
Climate plays a major role. Solid hardwood shrinks and swells with changes in humidity, so it performs best once it has acclimatized and a stable indoor environment. Engineered wood gives you an authentic wood surface but with greater resistance to movement, which makes it a smart option across the country.
A good underlay also compensates for small irregularities in the base while provides a bit of cushioning and warmth. Remember, though, it does not replace levelling the subfloor: large dips and bumps must be corrected first.
Quality laminate makes a good contender. Its tough wear layer is highly resistant to scratches, often better than other floors. Select a laminate with a high abrasion rating as well as good moisture protection for families with pets.
Natural hardwood remains the traditional favourite. It offers authentic grain that many buyers love, and it can be sanded and refinished several times during its lifespan. Being able to refinish it allows quality hardwood can last for generations. It usually boosts buyer appeal across Canada.
Your starting point is to look at how each room is used. A high-traffic hallway requires a hard-wearing floor that cleans up in seconds, while a master bedroom may prioritize softness and style. Kitchens and bathrooms benefit from moisture-resistant options such as LVP or porcelain tile.
Can you still have hardwood? Yes, but make careful choices. Harder woods like oak, maple or hickory resist dents better, while wire-brushed textures and distressed or hand-scraped textures hide everyday wear far better than a shiny finish.
Before choosing a floor, test the moisture level in your basement. A basic moisture test for example taping a square of plastic onto the slab for 24 to 48 hours can show any moisture problem. Solve water problems before installing new flooring.
Last but not least, always look at samples in the actual room. Finishes can look completely different than they do in a showroom. If you are looking for expert advice and a wide selection of floors for every room, visit Canada Floors Depot to find the floor that fits your home.
Ceramic and porcelain tile remains virtually waterproof, but it can feel cold if you do not install in-floor heating. Carpet, meanwhile, is cozy yet may hold moisture, so carpet tiles are often a better solution.