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Moisture levels is another key factor. In winter, indoor air gets too dry, causing hardwood to shrink and small gaps to form. A humidifier that keeps humidity at a stable level protects your floors and your furniture.
Can you still have hardwood? It is possible, but make careful choices. Dense species like oak, maple or hickory are more resistant, while wire-brushed textures and natural grain patterns disguise minor marks better than high-gloss finishes.
Vinyl plank flooring is the number one pick for busy homes. It is waterproof or highly water-resistant, meaning spilled drinks are no big deal. A thick wear layer will help prevent scratches, and the cushioned feel feels less noisy for kids playing on the floor.
Houses across Canada experience significant seasonal swings every year. In winter, heating systems dehydrate the air; in the warm months, moisture levels climb quickly. For wood flooring, that constant movement may cause cracks, warping and movement.
Moisture control is also a critical function, especially over concrete. Concrete may release humidity over time, and an underlay with a built-in vapour barrier helps protect wood-based floors from warping.
Renovating a basement is an excellent way to gain extra square footage and resale value in your house. However below-grade spaces come with special challenges: cold concrete, moisture plus lower temperatures. The wrong floor often causes mold, swelling and wasted money.
Before anything else, test the humidity of the concrete. A simple test such as taping a square of plastic to the floor for a day or two will indicate if moisture is rising. Fix any leaks before you install new flooring.
That is exactly where engineered wood makes a difference. Rather than using a single solid piece of wood, an engineered plank is made of multiple layers: a genuine wood veneer bonded to a stable core. The cross-layered construction reduces seasonal movement.
When planning a flooring project, they usually focus on the colour, the style and the price per square foot. Yet what goes under your planks is just as important. The right underlayment can make a big difference in comfort, sound and protection against moisture, while can help your new floor stay beautiful for years.
The result is a floor that feels exactly like real hardwood while stays more stable through the seasons. Since it moves less, engineered hardwood is often suitable in areas where solid hardwood is a risk, such as lower levels and over concrete slabs.
Everything starts at the entrance. Put a heavy-duty mat outside and a soft absorbent mat inside the main entrances. Two mats catches much of the salt and grit before it gets to the rest of the house. Add a boot rack so dripping shoes don't sit directly on the floor.
High-quality laminate is also a good contender. The hard melamine surface is very resistant to scuffs and scratches, often better than vinyl. Choose products with a high abrasion rating as well as water-resistant features for the best performance.
Modern laminate has evolved dramatically. High-quality laminate feature high-definition images and textures that follow the grain that look remarkably natural. Its wear layer keeps it resistant to scuffs and scratches, and it is priced lower. Several newer products now include water-resistant cores.
Installation tends to be easier. Based on the product, it can be installed as a floating floor, glued down and also nailed. That flexibility makes it a top choice for renovators and Games2Jolly.com DIYers across the country.
Natural hardwood is the traditional favourite. It brings natural character that no imitation fully matches, and it may be sanded and refinished more than once over the decades. Being able to refinish it allows a hardwood floor will last a very long time. Hardwood also adds the value of a home across Canada.
Salt residue can leave white marks that can dull the finish of your floor. Wipe up salt marks promptly using a slightly damp cloth together with a cleaner made for your type of floor. Stay away from excess water on wood and laminate.
Winter in Canada can be picturesque, however it is hard on flooring. Slush, road salt, sand and dry heated air will damage your floors if left unchecked. With a few simple habits, you can keep your floors beautiful through the winter.
Before buying, pay attention to the thickness of the wear layer. A deeper wear layer lets you sand it in the future, adding to its lifespan. Remember to keep indoor humidity in a stable range with a humidifier in winter.
Engineered hardwood can also work for those who want a genuine wood surface. Due to its cross-ply structure, engineered wood resists moisture swings far better than solid wood, which is a poor choice on concrete. Install it with an appropriate underlay for the best results.
If you live with pets and kids, you have probably learned that floors can get damaged. Pet nails, toys, spills and wet paws quickly stain a delicate surface in a few months. Luckily: today's flooring options are designed to handle everyday chaos.