Can you still have hardwood? Absolutely, but choose wisely. Harder woods such as hickory, maple and oak resist dents better, while wire-brushed textures and distressed or hand-scraped textures hide small scratches much better than high-gloss finishes.

Consistency is also important. A patchwork of flooring types throughout the house tends to make a home feel choppy. Installing one continuous floor in open-concept spaces gives a clean, open feel that looks great in listing photos.

Buyers notice floors right away. Worn carpet, scratched hardwood or cracked tile create the impression suggesting that the property needs work. On the other hand, beautiful updated floors helps make a property look move-in ready, and that can help attract more buyers.

LVP is usually the first recommendation for pet owners. It's waterproof, meaning water bowls are no big deal. A durable top layer helps resist scratches, and the softer surface feels quieter for kids playing on the floor.

Luxury vinyl are now the most popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Fully waterproof constructions mean that standing water will not ruin your investment when wiped up quickly. LVP is also more comfortable underfoot than ceramic, something a big bonus during winter.

First of all, what does underlayment do? Underlayment is a thin cushioned layer placed over the subfloor and under the floor. Based on the material, it can be made of rubber and combined with a moisture barrier.

Quality laminate is also a good contender. Its hard melamine surface is highly resistant to scratches, often better than vinyl. Select a laminate with a high AC rating as well as good moisture protection for families with pets.

If you are thinking of selling in the next few years, or even if you are looking to refresh your living space, updating your floors is one of the most effective upgrades you can make. Floors take up almost every square foot of a house, so they have a major impact on the overall look.

Hardwood continues to be a feature buyers ask for most. Engineered wood offers the same appeal with better stability for our climate. For a smaller budget, quality laminate will create a similar modern look at a fraction of the price.

Underlayment also smooths out slight unevenness beneath the floor and gives a little cushioning and warmth. Keep in mind, though, it cannot replace proper subfloor preparation: large dips and bumps should be levelled before installation.

Its first role is to provide sound reduction. Laminate and click vinyl can sound hollow if installed directly on the subfloor. A quality underlayment absorbs that hollow sound, which is especially important in condos in which building rules often set minimum sound ratings.

Indoor humidity is also critical. In winter, the air inside can become extremely dry, which causes natural wood to shrink and small gaps to open. A whole-house humidifier that keeps humidity around 35 to 50 percent helps protect your wood floors and your comfort.

When shopping for new floors, most of the attention goes to colour, style and price. Yet what lies beneath your planks plays an equally important role. Quality underlay can improve how the floor feels, Filmyhd.net sound and moisture protection, while can help your new floor last longer.

Salt residue often leaves a hazy residue which may dull the surface of most floors. Wipe up salty puddles quickly with a damp microfibre mop together with a pH-neutral cleaner. Never use steam mops on hardwood and laminate.

The first line of defence is the entrance. Use a rough outdoor mat plus a soft absorbent mat inside the main entrances. Two mats catches much of the dirt and salt before it can scratch the rest of the house. Use a boot rack so snowy boots never sit on the floor.

Today's laminate flooring has improved significantly. Good laminate feature high-definition images and textured surfaces that appear surprisingly close to real wood. The protective surface keeps it highly resistant to daily wear, and it is priced lower. A growing number of newer products now include improved water resistance.

Can you use laminate in a kitchen or bathroom? Newer water-resistant laminates can be a good fit in kitchens, provided that spills are wiped up right away. Wood can also be used in a kitchen with caution, however in bathrooms with a shower or tub, vinyl or tile stay the better options.

Winter in Canada is picturesque, however winter is tough on floors. Slush, de-icing salt, sand and dry indoor air will damage your flooring over time. With some simple precautions, you can keep your flooring in top shape through the winter.

When your household includes dogs, cats or young children, you know that floors can get damaged. Claws, toy cars and blocks, accidents and muddy boots can scratch a delicate surface faster than you think. Fortunately: modern floor options are made to handle everyday chaos.

So, which floor is right for you? When the real thing and refinishing potential are your priority, consider engineered or solid hardwood. When budget, durability and simple care top your list, laminate makes a lot of sense.