Choosing flooring is a big decision.
Your floor will stick by you for years to come, will see you you grow and evolve in a space that ressembles you. But with all the options available and so many factors to consider, it’s hard to know if you’re making the right choice. So how do you choose the right flooring?
Our experts share 8 essential questions to ask yourself in order to choose the best floor type for you!
1. IN WHICH ROOM WILL THE FLOOR BE INSTALLED?
Every room has its own specific requirements. A kitchen or bathroom, for example, requires a material that is moisture-resistant, while a living room or bedroom offers more flexibility. Basements, on the other hand, often requires a solution designed to adapt to ambient humidity and temperature fluctuations.
Ask yourself: Is this room exposed to water, moisture, or significant temperature fluctuations?
2. HOW BUSY IS THis SPACE?
The hallway of a family home with children and pets will naturally have different requirements than a spare bathroom or bedroom. The level of foot traffic in the room directly influences the choice of material and the desired durability.
Ask yourself: How many people and animals pass through this area every day?
3. WHAT KIND OF LIFESTYLE WILL THIS FLOOR HAVE?
Scratches, damage, and dropped objects: family life puts floors to the test. Some materials are more scratch-resistant, while others are easier to clean up when accidents happen.
Ask yourself: Do I need a floor that's scratch-resistant and easy to maintain?
4. DOES MY FLOOR ADAPT TO THE SEASONS?
This question is often overlooked. In Quebec, the extreme fluctuations in humidity during the summer, the cold of winter, and the dry air from heating systems put a strain on materials: hardwood, for example, can react to these changes and shift slightly. A floating floor or luxury vinyl flooring generally withstands these seasonal changes better. If you have heated flooring, certain materials, such as ceramic tile, are also better suited than others.
Ask yourself: Is this material designed to withstand the seasonal variations in our climate, and is it compatible with my heating system?
5. what budget am i ready to invest?
The price of flooring varies greatly depending on several factors. When getting an estimate, consider not only the cost of the material, but also the cost of installation, installation equipment, and long-term maintenance.
Ask yourself: Does my budget cover only the flooring, or does it also include installation and the necessary accessories?
6. WHAT STYLE OR VIBE DO I WANT TO CREATE?
The flooring sets the tone for the entire room. Hardwood adds warmth and character, ceramic tile offers a modern, minimalist look, and luxury vinyl beautifully mimics wood or stone at a lower cost. Consider how it will complement your furniture, walls, and the overall style of your home.
Ask yourself: Do I want a timeless look or something that's trending? Does this choice go well with the rest of the house?
7. WHAT level OF MAINTENANCE is realistic for me?
Some materials require careful maintenance, such as hardwood, which is sensitive to water. Others, such as vinyl or ceramic, are much more forgiving in everyday use.
Ask yourself: Am I willing to put effort into , or would I prefer a low-maintenance option?
8. am i installing the flooring myself or am i hiring a professionnal?
Installation has a direct impact on the durability and finish of your floor. Some materials are well-suited for do-it-yourself installation (click vinyl, for example), while others require a professionals' expertise to ensure a flawless result and a valid warranty.
Ask yourself: Do I have the necessary skills and tools for this project, or would I rather entrust experts?
In Conclusion
The right flooring is one that meets both your practical needs and your aesthetic preferences. Taking the time to answer these questions will help you avoid making an impulsive choice and allow you to fully enjoy your new space for years to come.
Need help choosing the right flooring for you?
Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, from selection to installation!
FAQ : Choosing a floor
What is the best type of flooring for a basement?
Laminate and luxury vinyl flooring are generally the best choices for basements, as they are more resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations than traditional hardwood.
How long does a high-quality floor last?
Depending on the material and how well it's maintained, a floor can last anywhere from 15 to more than 50 years. Hardwood, if well maintained, can even last for several generations.
What type of flooring is the most durable?
Ceramic tile is generally considered the most durable, followed closely by luxury vinyl: both are highly resistant to scratches, moisture, and heavy foot traffic. Hardwood, however, remains a durable long-term choice, as it can be sanded and refinished several times over the course of decades.
What is the difference between floating floor and click-lock floors?
Le plancher flottant et le plancher clic sont décrivent les différents modes d'installation s'installent par dessus le sous-plancher sans clous ni colle. Un plancher flottant est déposé directement sur le sous-plancher sans colle ni clous, andis que "clic" désigne le système d'assemblage par emboîtement des lames entre elles.
What's the best floor for limited budgets?
If you're working with a limited budget, laminate and luxury vinyl are the best flooring options because they offer the best value for the money. These materials faithfully replicate the look of wood or stone at a fraction of the cost, and they're easy to install.
Does the whole house need to have the same type of flooring?
No, it isn't necessary to have the same type of flooring throughout the house. It's common practice to install water-resistant materials, such as ceramic tile or luxury vinyl, in bathrooms and the basement, and to reserve hardwood flooring for the main living areas.
How much does a new floor cost?
The cost of a new floor depends on three factors: the material chosen, the area to be covered, and the complexity of the project (removal of the old flooring, leveling the subfloor, etc.). A customized quote is still the best way to get an accurate estimate for your project.