When planning a flooring project, they tend to focus on the colour, style and price. But what lies beneath the floor is just as important. Quality underlay can make a big difference in how the floor feels, noise levels and protection against moisture, while can help your new floor perform better.
Climate also plays an important role. Natural hardwood moves with changes in humidity, which means it should be installed once it has acclimatized and controlled humidity. Engineered wood offers the beauty of real wood with much better dimensional stability, which makes it a smart option across the country.
The number one selling point of vinyl plank is its resistance to moisture. Unlike solid hardwood, a quality vinyl plank will not swell when exposed to water. That makes it an excellent choice for basements, laundry rooms and entryways.
If you are thinking about luxury vinyl for your next project, make sure to compare collections and see samples in person. You will find many styles on vinyl plank flooring in Canada and find the right floor for your space.
What about hardwood? Yes, though make careful choices. Harder woods such as hickory, maple and oak are more resistant, while wire-brushed textures or textured surfaces disguise minor marks far better than a shiny finish.
Protection from moisture is a second key function, particularly in basements. A concrete slab can release moisture vapour constantly, so a moisture barrier helps protect laminate and wood floors from damage.
A key function is noise control. Floors that are not glued down may sound loud without a good underlay. A good acoustic underlay absorbs footstep noise, something that is especially important in apartments and condos where condo boards may require minimum sound ratings.
Moisture levels is also another key factor. When the furnace is running, the air in your home can become extremely dry, causing natural wood to contract and 5.torayche.com cracks to open. Using a humidifier that keeps indoor humidity at a stable level benefits your wood floors as well as your comfort.
The right underlay also compensates for slight unevenness in the base and adds some cushioning and warmth. Keep in mind, though, it cannot replace levelling the subfloor: large dips and bumps should be fixed before installation.
Durability is also a strong point. Most LVP products come with a wear layer on top that resists everyday wear, stains and spills and UV fading. Families with kids and pets value the low maintenance: a quick sweep and a light mop keep it looking new.
Comfort counts too, particularly in Canadian winters. Luxury vinyl feels warmer and softer underfoot compared to porcelain or stone, while many collections come with an attached pad for better sound absorption.
Putting it down is usually easy. Floating planks can be installed without glue, which saves both time and labour. However, proper subfloor preparation makes all the difference for a long-lasting result.
Salt residue leaves a hazy residue which may damage the finish of your floor. Clean residue promptly using a damp microfibre mop together with a cleaner made for your type of floor. Never use excess water on wood and laminate.
Before you buy, be sure to bring samples home in your own lighting. Finishes may appear completely different in natural light. For helpful advice and plenty of options of quality flooring products, check out Canada Floors Depot to find the floor that fits your home.
Over the past few years, LVP has grown into one of the most popular types of flooring across the country. It is easy to see why: it delivers a beautiful wood look, it handles water, and it fits most budgets.
Quality laminate is another great option. Its tough wear layer stays very resistant to scuffs and scratches, sometimes better than vinyl. Choose a laminate with a high AC rating as well as water-resistant features for families with pets.
Houses across Canada go through big changes in temperature and humidity from season to season. During winter, furnaces dehydrate the air; in the warm months, humidity climb quickly. For natural wood, this cycle may cause gaps, cupping and noise.
LVP is usually the number one pick for families. It is waterproof or highly water-resistant, so water bowls are no big deal. A thick wear layer will help resist scuffs, while the softer surface is less noisy than tile.
Canadian winters can be magical, yet winter is tough on floors. Snow, road salt, gravel and dry heated air can all dull even the best floors over time. With a few simple habits, you can keep your floors looking great through the winter.
When shopping, check the thickness of the wear layer. A deeper veneer lets you refinish the floor down the road, increasing the floor’s lifespan. Remember to maintain humidity at a steady level with a humidifier in winter.
The first line of defence is the entrance. Place a heavy-duty mat outside plus a soft absorbent mat inside every entrance. Using both stops the majority of the dirt and salt before it gets to the rest of the house. Add a boot tray so wet boots don’t sit on the floor.