Before choosing a floor, Filmyhd.net test the moisture level of the concrete. A basic moisture test such as taping a plastic sheet onto the slab for 24 to 48 hours can reveal whether moisture comes through. Fix drainage issues before you install any floor.
If you are planning to sell in the next few years, or you are looking to enjoy your home more, new flooring ranks among the most effective renovations you can make. Floors make up most of the visible space of your home, so they make a huge impact on how buyers feel.
Hardwood floors remains one of the most requested features buyers ask for most. Engineered hardwood offers the same natural look and greater stability across the seasons. For a smaller budget, luxury vinyl plank can provide a comparable wood look at a lower cost.
Ultimately, which one makes sense? When long-term value and refinishing potential are what you want, consider real wood. If cost, scratch resistance and simple care come first, quality laminate is hard to beat.
No matter what you choose, focus on proper installation: sealed edges, clean transitions between rooms and solid subfloor preparation. Such details make all the difference in how long your floor will last.
If you are choosing a wood-look floor, two materials usually lead the conversation: laminate and natural hardwood. Each of them can be beautiful, but they are very different when it comes to cost, performance and long-term value.
Start at the door. Put a heavy-duty mat outside and an absorbent mat inside each door. Two mats traps the majority of the salt and grit before it can scratch your flooring. Set up a boot tray to make sure wet boots don't sit on your flooring.
Vinyl plank and vinyl tile have quickly become the most popular choice in wet areas. Water-resistant cores ensure that standing water won't damage your investment if cleaned up promptly. Vinyl feels softer underfoot than ceramic, something much appreciated on cold Canadian mornings.
Buyers notice floors immediately. Dated carpet, scratched hardwood or cracked tile create a message that the property requires repairs. Meanwhile, fresh, modern flooring helps make a home look bright and well-maintained, and that can help it stand out.
Turning a basement into living space is one of the best ways to increase the usable space and resale value to your home. However basements come with special challenges: concrete slabs, moisture and lower temperatures. A poor flooring choice can lead to mold, swelling and costly repairs.
Tile remain a timeless option. Tiles are virtually waterproof, very durable and offered in countless designs, from wood-look planks and natural stone visuals. Look for a textured or matte surface for bathrooms, then consider radiant heating to keep tile warm.
Indoor humidity also matters and is another key factor. In winter, the air inside gets too dry, which causes natural wood to shrink and cracks to open. Using a humidifier to maintain humidity in a moderate range benefits your wood floors as well as your comfort.
LVP is often the top option below grade. Many vinyl products are completely waterproof, so they won't be damaged when a small leak appears. SPC and WPC vinyl also bridge minor imperfections in the subfloor.
Kitchens and washrooms are the busiest rooms in the house. They see spills, humidity, falling objects and constant cleaning. Your flooring choice here must stay moisture-resistant, durable and easy to clean without sacrificing good looks.
Engineered wood is a possibility for those who want real wood. Because of its stable core, it tolerates humidity changes much better than solid wood, and solid wood is a poor choice below grade. Install it with an appropriate underlay for long-term performance.
The right underlay can also compensates for slight unevenness in the subfloor and adds a little softness underfoot. Note, however, it is not a substitute for levelling the subfloor: large dips and bumps need to be corrected before installation.
Winter in Canada can be magical, however winter is hard on flooring. Snow, road salt, grit and dry heated air will damage your floors if left unchecked. With a few simple habits, it is easy to keep your floors in top shape until spring.
Natural hardwood remains the classic choice. It brings authentic grain that is hard to copy, and it is often sanded and refinished many times over the decades. That ability means a hardwood floor will last for generations. Hardwood also increases the value of a home across Canada.
One important note: many flooring products include an attached underlayment. When that is the case, doubling up can create movement and affect the warranty. Be sure to check the manufacturer's guidelines.
Can you use laminate in a kitchen or bathroom? Some modern laminates can work well for kitchens, as long as water is cleaned up promptly. Engineered hardwood can also work in a kitchen with care, but in bathrooms, tile and vinyl are the better options.