In the end, which one should you choose? When the real thing and refinishing potential are your priority, go with engineered or solid hardwood. When cost, durability and simple care come first, quality laminate makes a lot of sense.

Salt residue can leave white marks that will dull the protective layer of your floor. Wipe up salt marks promptly using a damp microfibre mop and a cleaner made for your type of floor. Avoid steam mops on hardwood and laminate.

Underlayment also hides slight unevenness in the base while provides some softness underfoot. Keep in mind, though, it does not replace proper subfloor preparation: large dips and bumps should be corrected beforehand.

The cold season in Canada can be beautiful, but it is rough on your floors. Snow, de-icing salt, gravel and low indoor humidity can all wear out your flooring if left unchecked. With some simple precautions, it is easy to keep your flooring looking great all season long.

When people shop for flooring, they usually focus on colour, the style and the price per square foot. However what goes under the floor plays an equally important role. Quality underlay improves comfort, sound and protection against moisture, and it helps your new floor perform better.

Consistency also counts. A mix of materials throughout the house often makes a space feel choppy. Running the same floor through the main living areas produces a sense of flow that looks great in listing photos.

When it comes to a classic wood look, more resources two materials usually top the list: laminate and hardwood. Each of them can be stunning, but they have important differences when it comes to cost, performance and lifespan.

The first thing to do is to consider the way you live in each space. A mudroom requires something tough and easy to clean, while a bedroom can prioritize comfort and warmth. Kitchens benefit from water-resistant materials like LVP or tile.

One important note: some flooring products come with a pre-attached pad. When that is the case, adding a second layer can lead to joint failure and cancel your warranty. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Modern laminate has evolved significantly. High-quality laminate uses high-definition images and embossed textures that feel remarkably realistic. The tough top layer keeps it highly resistant to daily wear, and it costs at a fraction of the cost of hardwood. A growing number of newer products now include water-resistant cores.

Everything starts at the entrance. Put a heavy-duty mat outside and an absorbent mat inside each door. Using both stops the majority of the dirt and salt before it reaches your floors. Use a boot rack so wet boots aren’t left directly on the floor.

One of its main jobs is acoustic insulation. Floors that are not glued down can sound hollow if installed directly on the subfloor. The right underlay dampens impact sound, which is essential in condos where building rules frequently demand minimum sound ratings.

The main benefit of vinyl plank is its water resistance. In contrast to natural wood, good vinyl flooring will not swell when exposed to spills. It is therefore a perfect fit for kitchens, bathrooms and basements.

Lately, luxury vinyl plank has grown into one of the most requested flooring options across the country. It is easy to see why: it looks like real wood, it handles water, and it suits a wide range of budgets.

Moisture levels is also critical. When the furnace is running, the air inside often becomes very dry, causing wood floors to shrink and small gaps to form. A whole-house humidifier keeping indoor humidity in a moderate range protects your wood floors as well as your comfort.

If you are planning to sell in the next few years, or you simply want to refresh your living space, replacing old flooring is one of the best investments to consider. The floor make up almost every square foot of your home, which means they make a huge impact on first impressions.

Long-term durability is another major advantage. The best LVP products feature a protective wear layer designed to resist everyday wear, stains and spills and discoloration. Busy households appreciate how easy it is to maintain: a quick sweep and occasional damp mopping are usually enough.

Picking a new floor is one of the biggest decisions you will make during a remodeling project. Here in Canada, the selection is especially demanding because our homes need to withstand freezing winters, humid summers, slush and salt carried in on every boot.

If you are thinking about vinyl plank flooring for your renovation, it is worth taking time to compare collections and check colours at home. You will find a great selection on this Canadian flooring retailer and find the right floor for your space.

Hardwood floors is one of the features buyers love. Engineered hardwood delivers the same appeal with greater stability for our climate. For a smaller budget, luxury vinyl plank can provide an equally attractive finish at a lower cost.