First of all, evaluate for moisture in the slab. A simple test for example taping a square of plastic to the floor for a day or two can reveal any moisture problem. Fix drainage issues before installing any floor.

When it comes to a classic wood look, two products typically come up first: laminate flooring and hardwood. Both are attractive, but they have important differences when it comes to price, durability and long-term value.

Moisture levels is very important. When the furnace is running, the air inside gets extremely dry, causing wood floors to contract and gaps to form. A whole-house humidifier to maintain indoor humidity at a stable level benefits your floors as well as your furniture.

Start at the door. Use a rough outdoor mat and a soft absorbent mat inside each door. Two mats catches much of the salt and grit before it reaches your flooring. Use a waterproof tray so snowy boots don't sit directly on the floor.

Vinyl plank flooring is usually the first recommendation for pet owners. It's water-resistant, so spilled drinks are no big deal. A strong wear layer helps reduce scuffs, and its softer feel is quieter for running feet and paws.

Laminate has evolved dramatically. Premium laminate products use high-definition images and textures that follow the grain that look very close to real wood. Its tough top layer makes it highly resistant to scuffs and scratches, and http://www.cars.bookmarking.site/user/latashiawt/ it is priced less. A growing number of collections even provide water-resistant cores.

Quality laminate makes a great option. Its tough wear layer is tough against scratches, in many cases even more than other floors. Look for laminates with an AC4 or AC5 rating as well as water-resistant edges for families with pets.

The number one selling point of luxury vinyl is its resistance to moisture. Compared with solid hardwood, a well-made LVP won't warp because of spills. It is therefore a perfect fit for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

And what about wood in wet areas? Some modern laminates can work well in kitchens, as long as spills are wiped up right away. Engineered hardwood may also be used in kitchens if you are careful, however in bathrooms, waterproof vinyl or tile are the better options.

So, what option makes sense? If the real thing plus the ability to refinish are what you want, go with real wood. If cost, durability and easy maintenance are more important, quality laminate is hard to beat.

If you share your home with dogs, cats or young children, you know that floors suffer. Claws, toy cars and blocks, accidents and snow and slush can scratch the wrong floor faster than you think. The good news: current flooring materials are built to survive real life.

Hardwood remains the traditional favourite. It adds natural character that no imitation fully matches, and it is often refinished several times over the decades. This means quality hardwood can last for generations. It also boosts resale value in many markets.

Over the past few years, vinyl plank flooring has become one of the most popular flooring options across the country. The reasons are easy to understand: it delivers a beautiful wood look, it stands up to spills, and it suits most budgets.

Renovating a basement is an excellent way to gain extra square footage and resale value in your house. But basements present unique challenges: cold concrete, dampness plus chilly surfaces. Choosing the wrong flooring can lead to mildew, warping and costly repairs.

Porcelain tile stay a proven solution. Tile is nearly impervious to water, long-lasting and available in endless styles, from wood-effect tiles to marble and stone looks. Choose a textured or matte surface in bathrooms, and add radiant heating for winter comfort.

Putting it down is typically straightforward. Floating systems can be installed over many existing floors, saving both time and labour. However, proper subfloor preparation makes all the difference for the best result.

Vinyl plank and vinyl tile are now a top choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Water-resistant cores guarantee that spills cannot harm the planks if cleaned up promptly. Vinyl feels more comfortable underfoot compared to stone, something much appreciated on cold Canadian mornings.

Luxury vinyl plank is usually the best choice below grade. Many LVP collections are completely waterproof, meaning they won't swell or rot when moisture happens. Rigid-core vinyl also bridge slight unevenness in the slab.

Salt residue leaves a white film which may damage the surface of most floors. Remove residue quickly with a damp microfibre mop and a cleaner made for your type of floor. Stay away from soaking the floor on wood-based floors.

Engineered hardwood is another option for those who want a genuine wood surface. Thanks to its layered construction, it resists moisture swings far better than solid hardwood, and solid wood is a poor choice below grade. Install it with a moisture barrier for long-term performance.