Agustin Stinson

Ultimately, which floor makes sense? If the real thing and the ability to refinish are your priority, go with engineered or solid hardwood. When budget, scratch resistance and low upkeep top your list, laminate is hard to beat.

The outcome is simply a floor that looks just like solid hardwood but performs better through the seasons. Because it is more stable, engineered hardwood is often suitable in rooms in which solid wood is a risk, like basements or over concrete slabs.

Houses across Canada experience big changes in temperature and humidity throughout the year. In winter, heating systems dehydrate the air; in the warm months, moisture levels go up sharply. For wood flooring, this cycle can cause gaps, warping and noise.

Porcelain tile stays extremely durable, though it feels cold if you do not combine it with radiant floor heating. Wall-to-wall carpet, related on the other hand, feels warm yet can absorb humidity, which is why rugs over a hard floor tend to be a safer bet.

Choosing new flooring is one of the biggest decisions homeowners make during a renovation. Here in Canada, the selection is especially critical because our homes must handle cold, dry winters, warm and humid summers, melting snow and de-icing salt brought in at the door.

Luxury vinyl plank and tile are now a top choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Water-resistant cores mean that standing water will not ruin the planks when wiped up quickly. Vinyl is also warmer underfoot than ceramic, something much appreciated during winter.

Can you use hardwood in wet areas? Newer water-resistant laminates are a valid option for kitchens, as long as moisture is dealt with quickly. Wood may also work in kitchens with care, however in full bathrooms, waterproof vinyl or tile stay the better options.

The kitchen and the bathroom count as the hardest-working rooms in a household. They see spills, humidity, dropped dishes and daily cleaning. Your flooring choice for these rooms has to stay moisture-resistant, hard-wearing and easy to clean without sacrificing style.

When shopping for new floors, they usually focus on colour, the style and the price per square foot. But what you put under your planks matters just as much. Quality underlay improves comfort, noise levels and moisture protection, while can help your flooring last longer.

Engineered wood is a possibility when you prefer natural wood. Because of its stable core, engineered wood tolerates moisture swings better than solid wood, which is not recommended below grade. Use an appropriate underlay for the best results.

Turning a basement into living space is an excellent way to add living space and resale value in your house. However below-grade spaces present specific problems: concrete slabs, dampness plus lower temperatures. A poor flooring choice can lead to mold, buckling and wasted money.

Before choosing a floor, evaluate the moisture level in the slab. A simple test like taping a plastic sheet onto the slab for 24 to 48 hours will indicate whether moisture comes through. Solve any leaks before installing new flooring.

Your budget is another major consideration. Today's laminate delivers convincing wood visuals at an affordable cost, while LVP combines affordability with great moisture protection. Don't forget to budget for the underlay, trims and moldings, and installation in your estimate.

Installing it is usually more versatile. Depending on the collection, engineered wood can be floated, glued or stapled. Such flexibility helps make it a top choice for contractors and DIYers across the country.

One of its main jobs is to provide sound reduction. Floating floors may sound loud without a good underlay. A good acoustic underlay dampens footstep noise, something that is especially important in condos in which strata rules may set a minimum IIC or STC rating.

Vinyl plank is widely considered the best choice for lower levels. Many vinyl products are fully waterproof, meaning they will not swell or rot when humidity appears. Rigid-core vinyl can also tolerate small irregularities in the slab.

Seasonal change also plays an important role. Traditional solid wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity, so it is best installed after proper acclimatization and controlled humidity. Engineered hardwood provides the beauty of real wood but with improved dimensional stability, making it a favourite for Canadian homes.

Laminate has evolved significantly. High-quality laminate products uses detailed photographic layers and textured surfaces that feel remarkably close to real wood. Its tough top layer keeps it resistant to scratches, and it is priced less. Several laminates even provide better moisture protection.

Porcelain and ceramic tile stay a timeless choice. Tiles are virtually waterproof, very durable and comes in endless patterns, including wood-look planks to natural stone visuals. Look for tiles with good slip resistance for bathrooms, and think about radiant heating for extra comfort.