Are you planning to get Hardwood flooring or Laminate Flooring for your home? We have discussed the types, average cost and pros and cons of installing both hardwood and laminate floor in Canada.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is the best choice for many homes because it's durable, beautiful, and adds value. Let's break down everything you need to know about hardwood floors, from the types available to how much they cost and many more.

Types of Hardwood Flooring

Here are the popular types of hardwood flooring available in Canada:

• Maple: Maple is a light-coloured wood mainly known for its durability. This comes in two types, red oak that has a reddish hue and white oak with a more neutral tone.
• Birch: Birch has similar colour to maple, but it has a tighter grain pattern that offers a more modern look.
• Oak: Oak is a more classic choice, and it offers more colors range and finishes.
• Hickory: Hickory is also a harder wood but with more distinctive character and rich tones. This option is best for places with high-traffic.
• Walnut Flooring: Walnut is also a popular choice among homeowners. This flooring is more elegant with its rich, dark colour and unique grain patterns.
• Exotic Hardwoods: Exotic flooring is best if you want a luxurious look. There are many options available in it like Brazilian cherry, mahogany, teak, or bamboo. All these come in distinct colours, textures, and grain patterns.

Factors Affecting Costs of Hardwood Flooring

The price of hardwood floors depends on:

• Type of Wood: Exotic woods cost more than domestic ones like oak or maple.
• Quality: Higher-quality wood with fewer flaws costs more.
• Finish: Prefinished floors may cost more but save on installation time.
• Installation: Different methods like nail-down, glue-down, or floating have varying costs.
• Location: Prices can vary based on where you live and what's available.
• Extra Services: Removal of old flooring or repairs can add to the total cost.

Average Costs of Hardwood Flooring

On an average, the hardwood flooring in Canada ranges from $5 to $15 per square foot for materials. Above it, the installation adds $3 to $8 per square foot. So, total costs can range from $8 to $23 per square foot.

Installation Methods for Hardwood Flooring

• Nail-Down: Nailing hardwood to the subfloor is stable but may need solid wood floors.
• Glue-Down: Using adhesive is common for engineered hardwood and concrete subfloors.
• Floating: This method is great for engineered hardwood and clicks together without attaching to the subfloor.

Maintenance Tips for Hardwood Flooring

To keep your hardwood floors looking great:

• Clean Regularly: Sweep or vacuum often to prevent scratches.
• Watch Moisture: Clean spills quickly and avoid excess water.
• Use Protectors: Felt pads under furniture legs prevent scratches.
• Area Rugs: Place rugs in high-traffic areas to reduce wear.
• Re-coat or Refinish: Over time, floors may need re-coating or refinishing.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a synthetic flooring that mimics traditional materials like wood or stone. It's made of four layers pressed together, including a top resin layer for durability. The core is usually plywood or fiber board, with an image layer for the design, and sometimes a backing layer for extra support.

Pros of Laminate Flooring

Here are the pros of laminate flooring in Canada:

1. Affordability: Laminate flooring is not that costly. It is the best option if you want a budget friendly option with pleasing look.

2. Durability: Its scratch and wear resistance make it ideal for high-traffic areas, ensuring longevity without extensive maintenance costs.

3. Easy Installation: Many laminate options feature a click-lock system, enabling straightforward installation, saving on labor costs if you choose to DIY.

4. Versatility: Laminating flooring is versatile that means it is available in various styles, colors, and patterns, and that too in a very minimal cost.

5. Low Maintenance: Simple cleaning with a broom and occasional damp mopping keeps laminate floors looking great without the need for costly treatments.

Cons of Laminate Flooring

Here are some of the cons of installing laminate flooring:

1. Susceptible to Liquid Damage: While waterproofed options are available, oversaturation can still cause damage, necessitating plank replacement.

2. Difficult to Refinish: Once damaged, laminate flooring must be replaced entirely as it cannot be refinished.

3. Artificial Appearance: Despite realistic designs, laminate floors won't pass for real wood or stone upon close inspection.

4. Limited Repair Options: Deep scratches or significant damage may necessitate replacing entire sections.

5. Environmental Concerns: Some products may emit VOCs, impacting indoor air quality.

6. Limited Lifespan: Wear layer can wear down over time, requiring earlier replacements compared to other flooring types.

Average Laminate Flooring Installation Cost

The average installation cost of laminate flooring in Canada is around $8.50 to $12.50 per square foot. This price includes the cost of the laminate flooring itself and the labor for installation.

Lifespan of Laminating Flooring

The average life of your laminate flooring will be around 10 to 25 years. But the actual lifespan will majorly depend on three things; The quality of the laminate, its maintenance and traffic it foot traffic it receives. So, if you want your flooring to last longer, then keep special care of these things before buying.

Hardwood Flooring vs. Laminate Flooring

By understanding the cost factors, and maintenance tips, you can choose the perfect hardwood flooring that fits your style and budget. It's a durable and beautiful choice that adds value and charm to any space.

Laminating flooring is an affordable, durable flooring option with various design choices and easy installation. However, before buying weigh its artificial appearance against the higher cost and maintenance of other materials before making a final decision.