Agustin Stinson

A key function is to provide acoustic insulation. Laminate and click vinyl can sound loud without proper underlayment. The right underlay reduces footstep noise, which is especially useful in multi-storey homes where strata rules often set a minimum IIC or STC rating.

Is hardwood an option? Absolutely, though be selective. Harder species like hickory and white oak resist dents better, while low-sheen finishes or natural grain patterns hide small scratches much better than a shiny finish.

Buyers notice floors right away. Worn carpet, scratched hardwood or chipped tile create a message suggesting that the home has been neglected. On the other hand, fresh, modern flooring can make a home look bright and well-maintained, which may help attract more buyers.

When shopping for new floors, most of the attention goes to the colour, style and the price per square foot. However what goes under the boards plays an equally important role. A good underlayment improves comfort, sound and moisture protection, while can help your flooring last longer.

A good underlay can also hides minor imperfections in the base while gives a bit of softness underfoot. Keep in mind, though, that cannot replace proper subfloor preparation: large dips and bumps must be levelled first.

Engineered hardwood can also work for those who want natural wood. Because of its cross-ply structure, it tolerates moisture swings better than solid hardwood, which is not recommended in basements. Use a moisture barrier to protect it.

Whatever floor you go with, pay attention to proper installation: caulking around the tub and check over here toilet, correct transitions and a well-prepared subfloor. These details make all the difference for how long the floor stays beautiful.

First of all, evaluate for moisture of the concrete. A simple test like taping a square of plastic onto the slab for 24 to 48 hours will indicate whether moisture comes through. Fix water problems before installing new flooring.

Kitchens and bathrooms rank among the most demanding spaces in a household. They see spills, moisture, heavy foot traffic and daily cleaning. The floor you install for these rooms needs to be water-resistant, tough and simple to maintain while still offering style.

Tile stay a proven choice. Tiles are virtually waterproof, long-lasting and available in a huge variety of patterns, including wood-look planks to concrete-style finishes. Select a textured or matte surface for safety, and add radiant heating to keep tile warm.

Vinyl plank and vinyl tile are now the most popular choice in wet areas. Waterproof cores ensure that standing water will not ruin the floor when wiped up quickly. LVP is also warmer underfoot than ceramic, something much appreciated during winter.

LVP is the first recommendation for pet owners. It is water-resistant, so pet accidents are simple to handle. A durable top layer helps resist scratches, while its softer feel is quieter for running feet and paws.

Winter in Canada are magical, however they are tough on floors. Slush, de-icing salt, sand and dry indoor air can wear out your floors if left unchecked. With a few simple habits, you can protect your floors beautiful until spring.

Tile stays extremely durable, but it can feel cold underfoot unless install a heated floor system. Carpet, on the other hand, feels warm but may hold moisture, so carpet tiles tend to be a more practical choice.

If you share your home with little ones and four-legged friends, you have probably learned that floors suffer. Pet nails, toy cars and blocks, juice spills and muddy boots can wear down the wrong floor faster than you think. Fortunately: current floor products are designed to stand up to busy family life.

Hardwood is one of the most requested features buyers ask for most. Engineered hardwood offers the same natural look with better stability for our climate. For a smaller budget, quality laminate will create a similar finish at a fraction of the price.

High-quality laminate makes a good contender. The tough wear layer is tough against scuffs and scratches, in many cases even more than other floors. Select a laminate with a high abrasion rating and good moisture protection for the best performance.

Can you use hardwood in these rooms? Newer water-resistant laminates can be a good fit in kitchens, if water is cleaned up right away. Engineered hardwood may also work in a kitchen if you are careful, however in full bathrooms, waterproof vinyl or tile stay the better options.

If you are thinking of selling soon, or you simply want to refresh your living space, replacing old flooring is one of the best upgrades you can make. Your floors make up almost every square foot of your home, which means they create a huge impact on how buyers feel.

Finishing a basement is a great way to add living space and comfort in your house. Yet lower levels present unique challenges: cold concrete, dampness and colder floors. A poor flooring choice often causes mildew, warping and costly repairs.