Quality laminate is another great option. Its protective top layer is tough against scuffs and scratches, in many cases better than other floors. Select laminates with a high AC rating as well as water-resistant edges for busy homes.
LVP is usually the best choice for lower levels. Most LVP collections are fully water-resistant, meaning they won’t swell or rot if a small leak appears. Rigid core planks also bridge small irregularities in the subfloor.
If you live with dogs, cats or young children, you already know how quickly floors suffer. Paws, toys, juice spills and snow and slush will wear down the wrong floor in a few months. The good news: today’s flooring options are built to handle everyday chaos.
Is hardwood an option? Yes, but make careful choices. Harder species like oak, maple or hickory hold up better, while matte finishes or textured surfaces disguise minor marks better than a shiny finish.
De-icing salt often leaves a hazy residue which may etch the surface of hardwood, laminate and vinyl. Wipe up salty puddles quickly using a damp microfibre mop and a cleaner made for your type of floor. Stay away from soaking the floor on wood and laminate.
Winter in Canada is picturesque, however they are rough on your floors. Slush, calcium chloride, grit and low indoor humidity can all damage your floors over time. With a few simple habits, it is easy to keep your floors in top shape through the winter.
Turning a basement into living space is one of the best ways to increase the usable space and value to your home. Yet below-grade spaces present unique challenges: concrete slabs, moisture and lower temperatures. Choosing the wrong flooring often causes mold, swelling and wasted money.
Tile are still a timeless choice. Tile is extremely water-resistant, long-lasting and comes in countless patterns, from wood-effect tiles and marble and stone looks. Look for a slip-resistant finish for safety, and think about heated floors for winter comfort.
The first line of defence is the entrance. Put a rough outdoor mat plus an absorbent mat inside the main entrances. This combination stops much of the dirt and salt before it reaches the rest of the house. Set up a boot rack to make sure dripping shoes aren’t left directly on the floor.
Engineered hardwood is another option for those who want real wood. Thanks to its stable core, engineered wood resists humidity changes far better than solid wood, and solid wood is a poor choice in basements. Use a proper vapour barrier for long-term performance.
Kitchens and washrooms are the busiest rooms in the house. They deal with splashes, steam, dropped dishes and daily cleaning. The flooring you choose for these rooms must stay moisture-resistant, tough and easy to clean while still offering style.
If you plan to put your house on the market in the near future, or even if you just want to refresh your living space, updating your floors ranks among the smartest investments available. Your floors take up nearly the entire surface in every room, so they have a major impact on first impressions.
Vinyl plank flooring is usually at the top of the list for pet owners. It’s waterproof, so spilled drinks become easy to clean up. A thick wear layer will help reduce scratches from claws, and its softer feel is less noisy than tile.
Moisture levels is another key factor. During the heating season, the air in your home can become extremely dry, causing hardwood to contract and small gaps to form. A whole-house humidifier to maintain humidity in a moderate range protects your floors as well as your furniture.
What about laminate in wet areas? Some modern laminates are a valid option in kitchens, if moisture is dealt with promptly. Wood can also be used in kitchens with caution, however in bathrooms with a shower or tub, vinyl or tile are the recommended options.
Before choosing a floor, evaluate the moisture level of the concrete. A simple test for example taping a plastic sheet onto the slab for 24 to 48 hours can reveal any moisture problem. Solve any leaks before installing new flooring.
Ceramic and porcelain tile is virtually waterproof, though it tends to feel cold underfoot if you do not install a heated floor system. Carpet, meanwhile, feels warm but may hold moisture, so rugs over a hard floor are often a more practical choice.
Modern laminate has improved dramatically. Premium laminate feature realistic printed designs and textured surfaces that appear very realistic. Its tough top layer keeps it very resistant to daily wear, and it is priced less. Several laminates even provide better moisture protection.
A cohesive look matters too. A patchwork of different floors in connected spaces can make a home feel smaller. Installing one continuous floor across the main floor creates a clean, open feel that buyers appreciate.
Buyers notice floors immediately. Worn carpet, PuNbB.sKYNeTtechNOLoGiES.uS scuffed floors or mismatched flooring create a message that the property requires repairs. On the other hand, fresh, modern flooring makes a house feel clean and modern, which can help attract more buyers.