Vancouver’s character homes hide a real asset under the carpet: original fir and oak floors, often a century old. In Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant, and East Van, restoring those floors can be smarter than replacing them, both for the look and for resale. Here is how to tell what you have, when to refinish versus replace, and what the character-home premium is really worth.
Key takeaways
- Many pre-war Vancouver homes have original fir or oak worth saving.
- Old-growth fir in particular is dense and beautiful, and hard to replicate today.
- Refinishing is possible as long as enough wood remains above the nails.
- Restored original floors are a genuine resale draw in character neighborhoods.
What is under your carpet
Homes built in Vancouver before the war were commonly floored in vertical-grain Douglas fir, with oak in some. Decades of carpet have often protected that wood. Pulling a corner back in a Kitsilano or Mount Pleasant house frequently reveals a floor that just needs bringing back to life.
Why old-growth fir is special
The fir in these homes came from old-growth timber that is tight-grained, hard, and warm in colour in a way new material rarely matches. It is part of the character that makes these houses desirable. Restoring it keeps something in the home that money cannot simply buy new.
Refinish or replace
The deciding factor is how much wood remains above the fasteners. A floor that has not been sanded too many times can usually be refinished beautifully. Where boards are too thin, damaged, or missing, selective board replacement or a new floor may be the better call. An assessment on site settles it.
The resale premium
In character neighborhoods, restored original floors are a selling feature buyers actively look for. They signal a home that has been cared for and keep the period feel intact. That is a return refinishing delivers that a brand-new floor in an old house often does not.
How Canadian Home Style helps
We assess what is under the carpet, advise honestly on refinish versus replace, and bring original fir and oak back where it makes sense. Local craftsmanship from our North Vancouver showroom for character homes across Vancouver.
Book a showroom consultation or request an in-home consultation, and our team will spec the right floor and subfloor system for your home.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my old floors can be refinished?
It depends on how much wood sits above the nails and how many times it has been sanded before. An on-site assessment gives a clear answer.
Is original fir better than new hardwood?
Old-growth fir has a density and character that is hard to match today, which is why restoring it is often worthwhile in a period home.
Does restoring floors help resale?
In character neighborhoods, yes. Restored original floors are a feature buyers value and a sign the home has been maintained.