What type of wood floors should you buy for your home in Vancouver?
Wood floors are beautiful and timeless. They add character and warmth to any home. But they aren’t cheap! So why should you consider them when choosing new floors for your home in Vancouver?
Well, there’s nothing like real wood. The beauty of well-made wood flooring is unmatched in its pure simplicity and natural look. Vancouver homeowners who have installed hardwood floors say they love how they look and feel, and they’re a great way to increase the resale value of your home. So if you’re considering flooring for your next home project, consider hardwood floors first and foremost. In this article, we’ll review some of the different wood floors available in Metro Vancouver so you can decide what’s suitable for your home.
The Environmental Impact of Wood Flooring Choices in Vancouver
When it comes to wood floors in Vancouver, sustainability is a critical aspect to consider. People are increasingly seeking eco-friendly wood flooring options, which contribute to a healthier environment and indoor air quality. It is important to look for wood that is sourced from responsibly managed forests, certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
These practices ensure that the wood is harvested sustainably, maintaining the ecological balance. Additionally, reclaimed wood is another sustainable choice that offers a unique aesthetic while having a lower environmental footprint. This type of wood is salvaged from old buildings, barns, and other structures, reducing the need for new timber harvesting.
Furthermore, engineered wood floors, made from a composite of real wood and other materials, provide a sustainable alternative to solid hardwood. They require less wood per plank, making them an eco-friendlier option. Forest Stewardship Council
Tailoring Wood Floors to Vancouver’s Unique Climate
At the start of each paragraph, Ammar is not present. The choice and maintenance of wood flooring in Vancouver can be influenced by the city’s climate. With its humid environment, it is important to select wood types and finishes that can withstand moisture fluctuations. In this climate, engineered wood floors are particularly well-suited as they are designed to resist warping and expansion.
Proper installation and maintenance are crucial in Vancouver’s climate. It is recommended to opt for professional installation to ensure that the flooring is correctly acclimatized and installed. Regular maintenance is also important, including controlling indoor humidity levels and avoiding prolonged exposure to water. These measures will help preserve the integrity and appearance of the wood floors.
In addition to the climate, it is important to consider the style and design of the wood flooring. Vancouver offers a diverse range of options, from traditional to modern styles. It is important to choose a wood type and finish that complements the overall aesthetic of the space. This will ensure a cohesive and visually appealing look.
When selecting wood flooring in Vancouver, it is also important to consider the durability and longevity of the materials. Certain wood types, such as oak or maple, are known for their strength and durability. Additionally, choosing a high-quality finish will help protect the wood from wear and tear, ensuring that it lasts for years to come.
In Vancouver’s climate, it is important to take preventive measures to protect wood flooring from potential damage. This includes using rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to prevent scratches and dents. It is also important to promptly clean up any spills or moisture to prevent water damage. By taking these precautions, the wood flooring will maintain its beauty and functionality for a longer period of time.
In terms of maintenance, regular cleaning is essential for wood flooring in Vancouver. This includes sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and debris, as well as using a damp mop or specialized wood floor cleaner to remove stains. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the wood.
In Vancouver’s climate, it is important to monitor indoor humidity levels to prevent damage to wood flooring. Excessive humidity can cause the wood to swell and warp, while low humidity can cause it to shrink and crack. Using a humidifier or dehumidifier can help maintain optimal humidity levels, ensuring the longevity of the wood flooring.
To ensure the best results, it is recommended to consult with a professional in Vancouver when choosing and maintaining wood flooring. They can provide expert advice on the most suitable wood types, finishes, and installation methods for the specific climate and needs of the space. This will help ensure that the wood flooring remains beautiful and functional for years to come. Canadian Home Builders’ Association
Wood Flooring Trends and Innovations in Vancouver
Vancouver homeowners must stay up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in wood flooring. The current trends lean towards wider planks, matte finishes, and cooler, neutral wood tones. These trends reflect a preference for a more natural and understated aesthetic that complements various interior designs. In terms of innovations, there have been advancements in finishes and installation techniques. Newer finishes offer enhanced durability and resistance to scratches and stains, making them ideal for busy households. Additionally, floating floor systems, which allow planks to interlock without the need for nails or glue, are gaining popularity due to their ease of installation and versatility.
Wood flooring has seen a shift towards wider planks, matte finishes, and cooler, neutral wood tones. These trends align with the desire for a more natural and understated aesthetic that can seamlessly blend with different interior designs. Furthermore, there have been notable advancements in finishes and installation techniques. The latest finishes offer improved durability and resistance to scratches and stains, making them perfect for households with high foot traffic. Additionally, floating floor systems, which eliminate the need for nails or glue, are becoming increasingly popular due to their easy installation process and versatility in different spaces. Canadian Flooring Association
Choosing the Right Wood Flooring Professionals in Vancouver
When it comes to wood flooring in Vancouver, it’s crucial to choose the right professionals. You should look for experienced and reputable flooring specialists who offer a wide range of services, from consultation to installation and maintenance. A good flooring company will provide detailed information about their products, including where the wood comes from, their sustainability practices, and warranty details. To make an informed decision, it’s beneficial to visit showrooms and see the samples in person. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can also help guide your decision-making process. A professional flooring specialist will offer personalized advice that is tailored to your specific needs and preferences as a homeowner.
When selecting professionals for wood flooring in Vancouver, it’s important to consider their experience and reputation. Look for flooring specialists who have a proven track record and a good reputation in the industry. They should offer a range of services, including consultation, installation, and maintenance. It’s also important to consider the quality of their products. A good flooring company will provide detailed information about the origin of the wood, their sustainability practices, and warranty details. Visiting showrooms and seeing the samples in person can give you a better understanding of the look and feel of different wood flooring options. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can also help you make an informed decision. Better Business Bureau
Key Benefits of Hardwood flooring checklist
- Appearance and aesthetics play a significant role in choosing a floor type. Ultimately, it is the natural beauty of hardwood that makes it special.
- A wood floor is an investment that will last a lifetime.
- Hardwood floors are easy to keep clean.
- They are hypoallergenic and help to improve indoor air quality.
- Hardwood floors will last for decades if maintained properly.
- Wood is a natural and sustainable product used for centuries for flooring purposes.
- Wood flooring can also be refinished over time to change its appearance and improve its longevity.
Softwood versus hardwood floors
Softwood comes from coniferous needle-bearing trees that remain green year-round around. Examples are pine and douglas fir. Hardwood comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the fall and remain dormant during the winter. Examples of hardwoods are maple, oak, birch and cherry. Both types of wood have different benefits. In Metro Vancouver, we almost exclusively use hardwood species such as oak, maple, and birch for flooring purposes.
Solid hardwood flooring
Solid wood has been used for flooring for centuries. The name perfectly explains this flooring product: a single piece of wood from top to bottom. Solid wood can be sanded and refinished several times. It should only be installed on or above grade.
- Usually up to 5″ width maximum
- 3/4″ thickness
- Glue-down and nail-down installation only
- Can be installed on or above grade
- Typically less expensive than the engineered counterparts.
- You can sand and refinish it several times (at least three times)
- Solid hardwood is not better than engineered hardwood. That’s a wrong perception that some homeowners may have.
- In Canada, most solid hardwood floors in the market are Canadian-made.
Species of wood: standard solid hardwood flooring products
- Red oak
- Hard Maple
- White oak
- Birch
- Ash
Finish options available for solid hardwood flooring
- Smooth
- Brushed
- Hand-scraped
- Distressed
Available Gloss levels for solid hardwood flooring
- Matte
- Satin
- Semi-gloss
- Gloss
Standard width available in the Canadian Market for solid wood
- 2-1/4″ (Mercier, Lauzon, Preverco)
- 3-1/4″ (Mercier, Lauzon, Preverco)
- 5″ (Preverco only)
Solid hardwood installation method
- Nail-down
- Glue-down
Engineered hardwood
Engineered hardwood is a product made up of a solid wood veneer over an engineered core. The engineered core construction can be layers of wood, lumber core, or composite materials. Engineered wood is more dimensionally stable than solid wood and can accommodate the winder width needed in modern design. Engineered hardwood is a versatile material you can install in many different ways. This comes with the advantage of being able to suit your needs and application and what kind of subflooring there may be at hand!
- Engineered hardwood can offer planks up to 12 inches wide.
- 3/8″ to 3/4″ thickness
- Engineered wood can be installed via Floating, Glue-down and nail-down installation methods.
- Can be installed below, on or above grade
- Typically more expensive than the solid counterparts.
- You can sand and refinish it as long as you have a thick wear layer (You also have to glue or staple it down – floating floors are not sandable)
- Engineered wood is better than solid hardwood due to its dimensional stability.
- Most of the wood flooring installed in the Lower Mainland is engineered hardwood.
Engineered hardwood flooring species
- Red oak
- Hard Maple
- White oak
- Birch
- Ash
- Hickory
- Walnut
- Cherry
- Mahogany
Finish options available for engineered hardwood flooring
- Smooth
- Brushed
- Hand-scraped
- Distressed
Available Gloss levels for engineered hardwood flooring
- Matte
- Satin
- Semi-gloss
- Gloss
Standard width available in the Canadian Market
Engineered hardwood is offered from 3″ wide to 12″ wide in our market. The commonly used width are:
- 4-1/2″
- 5″
- 6-1/2″
- 7″
- 7-1/2″
- 8-1/8″
- 8-1/4″
Engineered hardwood floor installation
- Floating
- Glue-down
- Staple-down (similar to nail-down)
Domestic versus exotic wood
Domestic species are the species of hardwood grown in the United States or Canada. These would include oak, maple and hickory. Exotic species are the hardwoods grown in other countries such as Brazil or Africa. These include ipe, teak, Brazilian cherry, acacia, and Santos mahogany.
There is a misconception that domestic woods are of lesser quality than exotics. Exotic woods are generally harder wood than domestic wood, however. The hardness of wood is not the only factor that determines the resistance to wear and tear; the finish is more important. Remember, when buying hardwood flooring, you’re most likely paying for the difference in the finish.
The Janka hardness test is the industry standard for measuring the hardness of wood. The test measures the force required to embed a 0.444-inch steel ball into the wood to half its diameter. The hardness of the wood does not necessarily mean that it is better for flooring. The hardness of the wood does not determine the stability of the wood either.
Here are some examples of popular wood species and their hardness:
- Brazilian Ebony, 3,700 lbf (16,000 N)
- Ipê, Brazilian Walnut, 3684 lbf (16,390 N)
- Red Mahogany, 2,697 lbf (12,000 N)
- Brazilian Cherry, Jatoba, 2,350 lbf (10,500 N)
- Santos Mahogany, 2,200 lbf (9,800 N)
- Hickory, 1,820 lbf (8,100 N)
- White Oak, 1,360 lbf (6,000 N)
- Tasmanian oak, 1,350 lbf (6,000 N)
- Ash (White), 1,320 lbf (5,900 N)
- American Beech, 1,300 lbf (5,800 N)
- Red Oak (Northern), 1,290 lbf (5,700 N)
- Yellow Birch, 1,260 lbf (5,600 N)
- Teak, 1,155 lbf (5,140 N)
- Black Walnut, North American Walnut, 1,010 lbf (4,500 N)
- Cherry, 995 lbf (4,430 N)
Garding of the wood
- A – Cleanest wood with the least amount of knots and variations
- AB – 2nd cleanest wood and minimal knots and variations
- ABC – Wood with 2nd most character and variations
- ABCD – Wood with the most character and variations
Of course, the cleaner the wood, the more expensive it becomes.
Discovering the Beauty of Wood Flooring in Vancouver
Wood flooring in Vancouver stands as a testament to elegance and sustainability. This type of flooring brings a natural, warm ambiance to any space, making it a popular choice for homeowners. The versatility of wood floors means they can complement a range of interior designs, from traditional to contemporary. Understanding the types of wood flooring available, including solid hardwood, engineered wood, and reclaimed wood options, is key for Vancouver residents. Each offers unique benefits in terms of durability, aesthetics, and environmental impact.
When selecting wood flooring, consider factors such as the wood species, plank width, and finish. Oak, maple, and cherry are popular choices, each providing a distinct look and feel. The width of the planks can influence the room’s appearance, with wider planks offering a more modern and spacious feel. Finishes range from glossy to matte and can be tailored to personal preference and lifestyle needs. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and refinishing when necessary, ensures the longevity of wood floors. National Wood Flooring Association
Beautiful hardwood floors with superior quality for your next flooring project.
Wood flooring is an excellent choice for your home because it comes in various widths, colours, and styles. You can also choose from domestic or exotic wood species, and there are many finish options to choose from. Engineered hardwood installation is relatively easy and can be installed below, on, or above grade. It is more expensive than solid hardwood flooring but is more durable and stable. When choosing engineered hardwood, consider the wood species’ Janka hardness rating and the wear layer’s thickness. Also, be sure to choose a finish appropriate for the traffic level in your home.
Hardwood floors are some of the most durable flooring types, making them perfect for homes requiring lots of foot traffic. They look fantastic, last forever, and add value to your home.
But even though they’re incredibly popular, finding high-quality wood flooring can be tricky. At Canadian Home Style, we only sell products made by reputable Canadian and European manufacturers and stand behind each product we sell. We have a wide variety of European and Canadian-made hardwood flooring products for you.
Top Recommended Pre-finished Brands:
Key Considerations Choosing Wood Floors for your Home in Metro Vancouver.
Quality and Variety of Wood Flooring Options
A primary consideration is the quality and variety of wood flooring options available. Businesses should offer a range of choices, including solid hardwood, engineered wood, and reclaimed wood. These options cater to diverse preferences, from traditional oak, maple, and cherry to more exotic woods. Each type of wood has unique characteristics in terms of grain, color, and durability, making the selection process pivotal to meeting specific aesthetic and practical requirements. The plank size, ranging from narrow strips to wide planks, and the variety of finishes from glossy to hand-scraped, also play a significant role in the overall look and feel of the flooring.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
In a city like Vancouver, where environmental consciousness is high, the sustainability and eco-friendliness of the flooring material are vital. It’s essential to choose a business that sources its wood responsibly. Look for certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which ensure that the wood is harvested sustainably. Additionally, reclaimed wood flooring options are an excellent choice for those looking to minimize their environmental impact, as they repurpose existing wood from various sources.
Adaptation to Local Climate
The unique climate of Vancouver, known for its humidity, necessitates wood flooring that can withstand these conditions without warping or damage. Engineered wood floors, designed to provide stability and resistance to moisture, are often recommended for such climates. It’s important to select a business that understands these local climate challenges and offers suitable flooring options and advice on maintenance to ensure longevity.
Installation Expertise and Aftercare
The expertise in installation and aftercare services is a critical factor. Proper installation is crucial for the longevity and appearance of wood flooring. Opt for businesses that provide professional installation services, ensuring that the flooring is correctly acclimatized to your home and expertly fitted. Aftercare services, including advice on cleaning and maintenance, are also essential. Regular maintenance extends the life of your floors and keeps them looking their best.
Reputation and Customer Reviews
The reputation of the business in the Vancouver wood flooring industry is a crucial factor. A company with a solid reputation for quality, reliability, and customer service is likely to provide a satisfactory experience. Customer reviews and testimonials can provide insights into the experiences of previous customers. Look for feedback on the quality of the flooring, the professionalism of the installation team, and the overall customer service.
Price and Value for Money
Finally, consider the price and value for money. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it’s important to balance cost with quality. A higher initial investment in quality wood flooring can offer better durability and aesthetics in the long run, proving to be more cost-effective.
Choose Canadian Home Style for your Vancouver flooring projects.
Canadian Home Style is your family-owned and operated flooring retailer with a showroom in North Vancouver, BC. We provide full-service commercial and residential flooring solutions across the Lower Mainland with an extended warranty. We are proud members of the BC Floor Covering Association (BCFCA) and the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA). In addition, we have won the Consumer’s Choice Awards back-to-back in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 for our commitment to business excellence. We are considered the highest-rated flooring experts in Metro Vancouver. We pride ourselves on holding the highest standards in the flooring industry. To uphold our high standards, we have a strict policy of “not selling or displaying any products that we wouldn’t want in our own homes.” Before we select a product to feature, we carefully assess product quality, off-gassing, warranties, and responsible sourcing. Book now to visit our North Vancouver flooring showroom; we can help you choose the perfect floor for your home or business.
Our mission is to help homeowners create beautiful homes that reflect their lifestyles while reducing energy consumption and conserving resources. We do this by providing our clients with innovative products, services and education. Our vision is to become Canada’s leading sustainable flooring solutions provider. Our values include integrity, respect, honesty and transparency. These principles guide us as we strive to provide outstanding customer service.
We believe that our success depends on the success of our clients and their customers. We work hard to ensure our clients get the most out of their investments. Our team consists of highly skilled professionals who are experts in their field. They have years of experience working together and know what works and what doesn’t. They understand how to solve problems quickly and efficiently. We are committed to providing excellent customer service. We listen carefully to our client’s concerns and suggestions. We take these into account when planning and executing projects. We always strive to exceed expectations.
Why Choose Us?
1. Expertise in Hardwood Flooring: Canadian Home Style has a rich expertise in hardwood flooring, which is a timeless and classic choice for homes. Hardwood floors are known for their durability and the elegant ambiance they add to any space. Canadian Home Style offers a wide range of hardwood species, including the ever-popular oak, which is renowned for its strength, resilience, and distinctive grain patterns. This variety ensures that every homeowner can find a style that resonates with their personal taste and complements their home’s interior design.
2. Specialization in Engineered Wood Flooring: Recognizing the diverse needs of Vancouver residents, Canadian Home Style also specializes in engineered wood flooring. This type of flooring is an excellent choice for those who love the look of hardwood but require a more stable and moisture-resistant option. Engineered wood is particularly suitable for Vancouver’s humid climate, providing the beauty of hardwood without the susceptibility to warping or expansion.
3. Customization and Variety in Wood Species: The company understands that personal taste plays a significant role in choosing the right flooring. Therefore, they offer an extensive range of wood species, not just limited to oak, but including other popular and exotic species. This variety allows homeowners to choose flooring that truly reflects their unique style and fits seamlessly with their interior design themes.
4. Professional Refinishing and Coating Services: Over time, wood floors may require refinishing to restore their original luster. Canadian Home Style provides professional refinishing services, ensuring that your flooring remains as beautiful as the day it was installed. Their coating options also offer added protection, enhancing the durability of the flooring and ensuring it withstands the test of time and daily wear.
5. High-Quality Lamination Options: For those seeking a cost-effective yet aesthetically pleasing solution, Canadian Home Style offers high-quality lamination options. Laminate flooring can mimic the look of real wood while providing additional benefits like ease of installation and low maintenance, making it a practical choice for many homeowners.
6. Committed to Customer Satisfaction: At the core of Canadian Home Style’s operations is a commitment to customer satisfaction. This commitment is evident in their comprehensive FAQ section, which provides valuable information to help customers make informed decisions. Their transparent and customer-focused approach ensures that clients feel supported throughout the process, from selection to installation.
7. Proven Track Record in Vancouver: Operating in Vancouver, Canadian Home Style understands the local context – from the prevalent interior design trends to the specific challenges posed by the local climate. This local expertise ensures that they provide flooring solutions that are not only beautiful but also practical and suitable for Vancouver homes.
Vancouver hardwood flooring Services We Offer:
- Project consultation
- Product specifications for projects
- Hardwood material supply
- Hardwood installation services
- Hardwood sanding and refinishing
- Removal of old flooring
Main Areas of Service in British Columbia:
- Vancouver
- North Vancouver
- West Vancouver
- Burnaby
- Coquitlam
- Squamish
- Whistler
- Maple Ridge
- Pitt Meadows
- Port Moody
- White Rock
Canadian Home Style difference
- Quality product
- Family-owned and operated
- Award-winning service and workmanship
- in-house flooring installers
- Environmentally and sustainably cautious
- Competitive price
- Industry knowledge
Frequently Asked Questions about wood floors:
What type of wood flooring is best?
Wide plank-engineered hardwood floors are the best type of wood flooring. They are more durable and stable than solid hardwood floors and come in various wood species. In modern design, wider boards are preferred because they create a more seamless look.
What is the most popular wood species for flooring?
Currently, Oak is the most popular wood species for flooring. It is a timeless wood that works well with any design style.
Are wood floors better than vinyl?
Absolutely yes, wood floors are better than vinyl. Wood floors are more natural, stylish, and luxurious. They also add value to your home. Vinyl is a synthetic material that is not as durable or luxurious as wood.
How much does installing 1000 square feet of hardwood floors in Vancouver cost?
This would depend on the type of your installation, the extent of your subfloor preparation and the cost of your material, but please see our handy checklist below to get a better sense of the cost:
- Wood flooring can cost you $6 and $30 per square foot. Remember you need 10% cutting waste.
- Underlayment costs between $0.25 and $1.00 per square foot for floating installation.
- Installation would cost between $2.50 to $15.00 SF depending on the installer’s expertise and your installation’s method and pattern.
- Your baseboards need to be removed and re-installed, costing you between $2.00-$3.50 per linear foot.
- Your existing floor needs to be removed and taken to the transfer station. For carpet and floating floors, floor removal can cost you between $0.50 to $1.50.
- You may need to level your subfloor to industry standards. This cost can vary and separates a great from an average installer.
- Don’t forget that you may need additional trims, such as transitions or shoe bases.
Which is better, wood or tile floors?
Wood is warmer and more luxurious than tile. Tile is more durable and easy to clean, but it can be cold and hard. Wood is softer and easier to walk on, but it can be damaged by water and pets. You will need to decide which is more critical: durability or comfort.
What is the most scratch-resistant wood flooring in Canada?
Mercier intact 2500 is the highest anti-scratch hardwood flooring product in Canada. Intact 2500 is their commercial finish.
Is engineered wood better than solid wood?
Engineered wood is more dimensionally stable than solid wood and is less likely to warp or cup. Engineered wood is also more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity. So, engineered wood is better than solid wood if you live in an area with high humidity or temperature swings. In addition, engineered wood gives you more flexibility in terms of installation methods. You can choose to float, glue, or nail your engineered wood floor.
Can you mop hardwood floors?
No, you’re not supposed to wet mop your hardwood floors. Water can damage hardwood floors by causing them to warp or cup. The best way to clean hardwood floors is to vacuum them and then clean them by spraying a Bona hardwood clean and a microfiber mop.
How often should you replace your flooring?
A good hardwood floor should last at least 50 years. Don’t be surprised to get 100 years out of a well-maintained hardwood floor. However, eventually, all floors need to be replaced. The best time to replace your floor is when it shows signs of wear and tear.
What is the most popular wood flooring colour in Metro Vancouver?
White-washed blond oak colour has been the top seller. The neutral lighter tones of wood flooring are the most popular. However, you should choose what feels good and works with your home’s style.
