Canadian winters can be picturesque, yet they are tough on floors. Snow, de-icing salt, grit and dry indoor air will damage even the best floors if left unchecked. With the right routine, you can keep your floors beautiful until spring.
Start at the door. Put a rough outdoor mat plus an absorbent mat inside each door. This combination traps the majority of the dirt and salt before it can scratch the rest of the house. Use a boot tray to make sure wet boots don’t sit on the floor.
Luxury vinyl plank is often at the top of the list for busy homes. It is waterproof or highly water-resistant, meaning spilled drinks become no big deal. A strong wear layer will help prevent scuffs, while the softer surface is more comfortable for running feet and paws.
Turning a basement into living space is one of the best ways to increase the usable space and value to your home. Yet lower levels present special challenges: concrete slabs, dampness and colder floors. A poor flooring choice may result in mildew, buckling and costly repairs.
A good underlay can also hides small irregularities in the base while adds a bit of cushioning and warmth. Note, however, it is not a substitute for levelling the subfloor: major unevenness should be levelled before installation.
Laminate makes a great option. The tough wear layer stays very resistant to scratches, in many cases more than other floors. Select a laminate with a high abrasion rating plus water-resistant edges for the best performance.
If you live with dogs, cats or young children, you already know that floors can get damaged. Claws, toy cars and blocks, accidents and snow and slush can stain the wrong floor in a few months. The good news: today’s flooring materials are designed to stand up to everyday chaos.
try what she says about hardwood? It is possible, but be selective. Harder species such as hickory, maple and oak resist dents better, while low-sheen finishes and textured surfaces disguise minor marks better than a shiny finish.
Humidity also matters and is critical. During the heating season, the air in your home can become very dry, leading to hardwood to shrink and small gaps to appear. A whole-house humidifier keeping humidity in a moderate range protects your floors and your health.
Important: many vinyl and laminate products come with a built-in underlay. In that case, adding a second layer can lead to joint failure and cancel your warranty. Be sure to read the installation guide.
Before anything else, evaluate the moisture level in your basement. A basic moisture test such as taping a square of plastic to the floor for 24 to 48 hours can show any moisture problem. Address any leaks prior to installing any floor.
Vinyl plank is often the go-to floor for lower levels. Many LVP collections are completely waterproof, so they won’t be damaged if humidity shows up. SPC and WPC vinyl also bridge small irregularities in the slab.
De-icing salt can leave a hazy residue that can etch the surface of your floor. Remove salty puddles quickly using a soft mop and a cleaner made for your type of floor. Stay away from soaking the floor on wood and laminate.
Buyers notice floors immediately. Dated carpet, scratched hardwood or mismatched flooring give a signal suggesting that the house requires repairs. Meanwhile, fresh, modern flooring can make a home look clean and modern, and that may help it stand out.
Tile is virtually waterproof, though it feels cold unless combine it with in-floor heating. Carpet, on the other hand, is cozy but may hold moisture, which is why area rugs are often a more practical choice.
Engineered wood can also work for those who want real wood. Thanks to its stable core, it tolerates humidity changes much better than solid wood, which is not recommended below grade. Use a moisture barrier to protect it.
In recent years, luxury vinyl plank has grown into one of the most popular floor coverings for Canadian homeowners. The reasons are easy to understand: it looks like real wood, it handles water, and it fits almost any budget.
A key function is noise control. Floors that are not glued down can sound hollow without proper underlayment. A good acoustic underlay reduces footstep noise, something that is especially useful in condos where strata rules may set specific acoustic ratings.
Moisture control is a second key role, particularly on concrete slabs. Concrete often releases moisture vapour constantly, so an underlay with a built-in vapour barrier protects wood-based floors from swelling.
Comfort is also important, especially when temperatures drop. LVP tends to feel warmer and softer underfoot compared to tile or stone, and many planks come with an attached underlayment that adds extra comfort.
The number one selling point of LVP is its water resistance. Unlike solid hardwood, a quality vinyl plank does not swell or cup because of moisture. It is therefore an excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms and basements.