Luxury vinyl plank is the number one pick for pet owners. It is waterproof or highly water-resistant, so pet accidents are no big deal. A durable top layer helps resist scratches, while its softer feel is more comfortable for running feet and paws.
If you share your home with little ones and four-legged friends, you already know that floors suffer. Claws, toy cars and blocks, spills and snow and slush can stain the wrong floor in a few months. The good news: current floor materials are made to stand up to everyday chaos.
The number one selling point of luxury vinyl is its water resistance. Compared with traditional laminate, good vinyl flooring does not swell or cup after contact with water. This makes it an excellent choice for basements, laundry rooms and entryways.
Toughness is also a major advantage. Most vinyl planks feature a protective wear layer that protects against scuffs and scratches, marks and discoloration. Families with kids and pets value the low maintenance: regular sweeping and a damp mop keep it looking new.
Humidity is very important. During the heating season, the air inside can become very dry, leading to wood floors to contract and gaps to form. A whole-house humidifier to maintain indoor humidity around 35 to 50 percent protects your floors and your furniture.
Kitchens and bathrooms are the most demanding spaces in any home. They see water, steam, dropped dishes and frequent mopping. The flooring you choose in these spaces has to stay waterproof, hard-wearing and low maintenance while still offering style.
De-icing salt leaves a white film that can dull the protective layer of hardwood, laminate and vinyl. Clean residue quickly using a soft mop and a pH-neutral cleaner. Never use steam mops on hardwood and laminate.
What about hardwood in wet areas? Newer water-resistant laminates can be a good fit for kitchens, as long as spills are wiped up promptly. Engineered hardwood can also be used in kitchens with care, however in full bathrooms, waterproof vinyl or tile stay the recommended options.
Vinyl plank and vinyl tile have quickly become a top choice in wet areas. Waterproof cores guarantee that spills cannot harm the floor when wiped up quickly. Vinyl stays softer under bare feet than ceramic, which is much appreciated on cold Canadian mornings.
If you are considering luxury vinyl for your next project, it is worth taking time to compare thicknesses and see samples in person. You will find a great selection at vinyl plank flooring in Canada before making your final choice.
Can you still have hardwood? It is possible, though choose wisely. Harder species like oak, maple or hickory are more resistant, and wire-brushed textures or natural grain patterns hide minor marks much better than high-gloss finishes.
Quality laminate is another great option. The protective top layer is very resistant to scratches, sometimes even more than other floors. Select a laminate with a high AC rating plus water-resistant features for busy homes.
Winter in Canada can be beautiful, however it is rough on your floors. Snow, road salt, sand and low indoor humidity can dull your flooring if you are not careful. With the right routine, you can keep your floors beautiful all season long.
Porcelain tile stay a proven solution. Tile is nearly impervious to water, very durable and comes in countless patterns, including wood-look planks to concrete-style finishes. Select a slip-resistant finish for bathrooms, and add radiant heating for extra comfort.
To start, what exactly is underlayment? Underlayment is a layer of material placed between the subfloor and the flooring. Depending on the product, it may be made from cork and paired with a vapour barrier.
No matter what you choose, don’t overlook proper installation: caulking around the tub and toilet, correct transitions and solid subfloor preparation. Those small details make all the difference in how long your floor will last.
When shopping for new floors, most of the attention goes to the colour, style and the price per square foot. Yet what lies beneath your planks matters just as much. The right underlayment improves how the floor feels, sound and protection against moisture, while it helps your new floor last longer.
Laminate has evolved a lot. Premium laminate products use realistic printed designs and textures that follow the grain that look very realistic. The wear layer keeps it resistant to scratches, BOOkMaRKinGceNtRaLs.cOM and it is priced at a fraction of the cost of hardwood. Several laminates now include improved water resistance.
Everything starts at the entrance. Place a heavy-duty mat outside and an absorbent mat inside every entrance. This combination traps the majority of the dirt and salt before it reaches your flooring. Set up a boot tray so snowy boots don’t sit directly on the floor.
Underlayment also hides slight unevenness beneath the floor and adds some cushioning and warmth. Remember, however, it does not replace a flat subfloor: big height differences should be levelled beforehand.