Which Hardwood is Best for Flooring? A Comprehensive Guide for Toronto Homeowners![]() Choosing the right hardwood for your flooring is a critical decision that can significantly impact the aesthetics, durability, and value of your home. With a myriad of options available, it can be challenging to determine which hardwood is the best for flooring. In this article, we'll explore various hardwood types, their pros and cons, and guide you in making the best choice for your Toronto home. Durability: A Key ConsiderationWhen it comes to hardwood flooring, durability is a crucial factor to consider. After all, you want your floors to withstand the test of time and the daily wear and tear. So, which hardwood flooring is the most durable? Oak and maple are often touted as some of the most durable hardwoods for flooring. Both are hard, dense woods that can withstand heavy foot traffic and resist scratches and dents. However, the durability of your hardwood flooring also depends on its finish. A high-quality finish can enhance the durability of your floors, making them more resistant to scratches and stains. Our hardwood flooring finishes page provides more information on the different types of finishes available. Oak vs. Maple: A Closer LookOak and maple are two of the most popular choices for hardwood flooring in Toronto. But how do they compare, and which one is better for flooring? Oak FlooringOak is a classic choice for hardwood flooring, known for its strength, durability, and beautiful grain patterns. It comes in two varieties: red oak and white oak. Red oak has a warm, reddish tone and pronounced grain patterns, while white oak is harder and has a more subtle, straight grain. However, do oak floors scratch easily? While no hardwood flooring is completely scratch-proof, oak's hardness and grain patterns can help hide scratches and dents. For more information on oak flooring, check out our solid hardwood flooring page. Maple Flooring
Exploring Other Popular Hardwood OptionsWhile oak and maple are popular choices, they are not the only options for hardwood flooring. Let's explore some other popular wood choices for hardwood flooring. Walnut FlooringWalnut is a beautiful hardwood known for its rich, dark color and straight grain. It's slightly softer than oak and maple, but its deep color can help hide scratches and dents. Walnut can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any room. For more information on walnut and other hardwood options, visit our hardwood flooring styles page. Hickory FlooringHickory is one of the hardest domestic hardwoods, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. It has a varied grain pattern that can add character and warmth to a room. However, its hardness makes it more challenging to install and may require professional installation. The Most Scratch-Resistant Hardwood Flooring![]() While no hardwood flooring is completely immune to scratches, some types are more resistant than others. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are known for their durability and resistance to scratches. However, the finish you choose can also significantly impact the scratch-resistance of your floors. For instance, matte finishes can help hide scratches better than high-gloss finishes. If scratch resistance is a top priority for you, consider engineered hardwood flooring. The top layer of engineered hardwood is real wood, but the underlying layers are designed to provide additional stability and resistance to scratches and dents. Check out our engineered vs. solid hardwood in Toronto blog post for a more in-depth comparison. The Rise of Engineered Hardwood FlooringIn recent years, engineered hardwood flooring has gained popularity among Toronto homeowners. But what is engineered hardwood, and is it a good choice for flooring? Engineered hardwood is made of a core of hardwood or plywood with a layer of hardwood veneer affixed to the top surface. It's designed to reduce the moisture problems associated with conventional hardwood. Its multi-layered construction makes it more stable than solid hardwood, while still providing the beauty and warmth of real wood. Engineered hardwood can be a great choice for areas where solid hardwood is not recommended, such as basements or over radiant heating systems. It's also generally more cost-effective than solid hardwood. Our engineered hardwood flooring page provides more information on the benefits of engineered hardwood. Choosing the Best Hardwood Flooring for Your Toronto HomeChoosing the best hardwood flooring for your Toronto home depends on several factors, including your lifestyle, budget, and personal style. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice:
Whether you prefer the classic beauty of oak, the modern appeal of maple, or the practicality of engineered hardwood, the best hardwood for your flooring is the one that meets your needs and complements your home's style. At Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring, we're committed to helping Toronto homeowners make the best choice for their hardwood flooring. Contact us today for more information and guidance on choosing the perfect hardwood flooring for your home. Frequently Asked Questions1. Which hardwood flooring is the most durable?
Oak, maple, and hickory are among the most durable hardwoods for flooring. They can withstand heavy foot traffic and resist scratches and dents. However, the durability of your hardwood flooring also depends on its finish. A high-quality finish can enhance the durability of your floors, making them more resistant to scratches and stains. 2. What is the most scratch-resistant hardwood flooring? While no hardwood flooring is completely scratch-proof, hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are known for their resistance to scratches. Engineered hardwood flooring, with its multi-layered construction, can also provide additional stability and resistance to scratches and dents. 3. What is the most popular wood for hardwood flooring? Oak and maple are two of the most popular choices for hardwood flooring due to their durability and beautiful grain patterns. Walnut and hickory are also popular choices for their unique colors and textures. 4. Is maple or oak better for flooring? Both maple and oak are excellent choices for flooring, each offering its unique advantages. Oak is known for its strength, durability, and beautiful grain patterns, while maple is even harder than oak, making it a great option for high-traffic areas. The choice between maple and oak will depend on your personal preference and the overall style of your home. 5. Do oak floors scratch easily? While no hardwood flooring is completely scratch-proof, oak's hardness and grain patterns can help hide scratches and dents. Regular care and maintenance can also help keep your oak floors looking their best. 6. Do maple hardwood floors scratch easily? Maple is a hard, dense wood that can resist scratches and dents. However, like any hardwood, it's not completely immune to scratches. Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your maple floors looking their best. 7. What are the benefits of engineered hardwood flooring? Engineered hardwood flooring is designed to reduce the moisture problems associated with conventional hardwood. Its multi-layered construction makes it more stable than solid hardwood, while still providing the beauty and warmth of real wood. It's also generally more cost-effective than solid hardwood.
0 Comments
Decoding Timeless Colours in Hardwood Flooring: Toronto's Guide to Everlasting Style
Classic Hardwood Floor Colours: The Evergreen ChoicesThe most classic hardwood floor colours that have stood the test of time are natural oak, walnut, and cherry. These shades offer a warm and inviting look that complements most interior design styles. They are versatile and blend seamlessly with different décor themes, making them a safe and popular choice among homeowners. You can explore a wide range of these classic shades at Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring. Light vs Dark Hardwood Floors: What's Your Pick?The choice between light and dark hardwood floors often boils down to personal preference and the overall theme of your home. Light floors can make a room appear larger and more open, while dark floors can add a sense of warmth and coziness. However, it's worth noting that dark floors tend to show scratches and dust more easily than light ones. If you're considering installing hardwood flooring, our hardwood flooring installation guide can provide you with valuable insights. Hardwood Floor Colours and Resale ValueDid you know that the colour of your hardwood floor can impact the resale value of your home? Neutral colours like brown and grey are often the best for resale as they appeal to a wide range of buyers. They are versatile and allow potential buyers to envision their own furniture and décor in the space. If you're planning to sell your house in the future, you might want to check out our portfolio for some inspiration. Trending Hardwood Floor Colours in 2023While it's important to choose a timeless colour, it's also worth considering current trends. In 2023, cool tones are in style, with shades of grey and light brown being particularly popular. However, these trends can change, so it's essential to choose a colour you love rather than simply following the latest fad. Our blog offers a wealth of information on the latest trends in hardwood flooring.
The Timeless Appeal of Solid Hardwood FlooringSolid hardwood flooring is a classic choice that never goes out of style. It offers a natural and warm look that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any room. Moreover, solid hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished multiple times, allowing you to change their colour and keep up with the latest trends. Engineered Hardwood Flooring: A Modern Alternative![]() Engineered hardwood flooring is a popular alternative to solid hardwood flooring. It offers the same beautiful look but with added durability and resistance to moisture. This makes it a great choice for areas like kitchens and basements. You can find engineered hardwood flooring in a wide range of colours, allowing you to choose a timeless shade that suits your home. The Impact of Hardwood Flooring FinishesThe finish of your hardwood flooring can also affect its colour and overall look. From glossy to matte, there are various hardwood flooring finishes to choose from. A high-gloss finish can make your floors look shiny and luxurious, while a matte finish can give them a more natural and understated look. The Role of Surface Types in Hardwood FlooringThe type of surface can also influence the colour and style of your hardwood flooring. Smooth surfaces offer a classic and clean look, while hand-scraped surfaces can add a rustic and unique touch to your home. You can explore different types of surfaces to find one that matches your desired aesthetic. Hardwood Flooring Styles: The Perfect Blend of Colour and TextureWhen it comes to timeless appeal, it's not just about the colour of your hardwood flooring. The style and texture also play a crucial role. From traditional to contemporary, there are various hardwood flooring styles to choose from. Each style can be paired with different colours to create a unique and timeless look for your home. Making Your Home Look Bigger With the Right Floor ColourDid you know that the colour of your floors can impact how big your home appears? Light-coloured floors can make a room seem larger and more open, while dark floors can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. If you're looking to make your home appear larger, consider choosing a light-coloured hardwood floor.
Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: What is the most classic hardwood floor color?
A: The most classic hardwood floor color tends to be a mid-tone, such as chestnut, gunstock, or similar medium browns. These colors have a timeless appeal and tend to go well with a variety of interior design styles. Q: What color wood floor goes with everything? A: Neutral colors like beige, gray, and light to medium browns are versatile and can match most color schemes. They also help to create a warm, inviting atmosphere in any room. Q: What color hardwood floor is best for resale? A: Neutral and classic colors are typically the best for resale as they appeal to a wide range of buyers. Light to medium browns are particularly popular. Q: What color hardwood never goes out of style? A: Natural wood colors, particularly in shades of brown, never go out of style. They offer a timeless look that can complement both traditional and contemporary interiors. Q: Is it better to have light or dark floors? A: The choice between light and dark floors depends on your personal preference and the overall design of your home. Light floors can make a room feel larger and more open, while dark floors can add warmth and create a more formal atmosphere. Q: What is more popular, dark or light hardwood floors? A: Trends in hardwood flooring colors can vary, but both light and dark floors have their appeal. Light hardwood floors offer a relaxed and modern look, while dark hardwood floors provide a more traditional and elegant feel. Q: What color floors sell a house best? A: Neutral-colored floors, such as light to medium browns or grays, are often the best choice for selling a house. They can appeal to a wide range of buyers and fit into various decorating styles. Q: What color wood floors are in style for 2023? A: While trends can change, neutral colors like light browns and grays are expected to remain popular in 2023. Natural finishes that highlight the wood's grain are also in style. Q: What color wood floors make a house look bigger? A: Light-colored wood floors can make a house look bigger as they reflect more light and give a sense of openness. Q: Is gray hardwood too trendy? A: While gray hardwood has been a popular choice in recent years, its neutral tone makes it a versatile choice that can withstand changing trends. It's a stylish option that can add a contemporary touch to your home. Is It OK to Install Engineered Hardwood Flooring in Your Toronto Kitchen?
Are you contemplating a kitchen remodel and wondering if engineered hardwood flooring is a viable choice? This is a question many homeowners in Toronto grapple with. While hardwood floors undeniably add a touch of warmth and sophistication, is it advisable to install them in a kitchen? Let's explore this.
The Allure of Engineered Hardwood Flooring
The Kitchen Environment: Challenges for Hardwood Flooring
A Case for Tile Flooring in the Kitchen![]()
Given the potential challenges with hardwood flooring in the kitchen, you might wonder if there's a more resilient option. This is where tile flooring shines. Tile is extremely durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean, making it an excellent choice for kitchens. It can withstand spills, stains, high foot traffic, and even hot pans, without sustaining damage.
While at Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring, we pride ourselves on our engineered hardwood flooring offerings in Toronto, we believe in providing our customers with the best advice for their specific needs. Given the potential for water damage and the higher maintenance needs, we typically recommend considering tile for kitchen flooring. Nonetheless, if your heart is set on the warmth and beauty of engineered hardwood, it can indeed be a suitable choice, given proper care and maintenance. In conclusion, while it's entirely possible to install engineered hardwood flooring in your kitchen, it's essential to be aware of the potential challenges. If you're ready to embrace the maintenance and care hardwood requires, it can certainly add a touch of elegance to your kitchen. But for practicality and durability, tile flooring might be the more sensible choice. FAQ
1. What is engineered hardwood flooring?
Engineered hardwood flooring is a type of flooring that combines a real hardwood surface layer with multiple layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard underneath. This construction makes it more stable and less susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity compared to solid hardwood. 2. How does engineered hardwood flooring compare to solid hardwood flooring? While solid hardwood is made entirely of a single type of wood, engineered hardwood consists of a thin layer of real wood on top and several layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard beneath. This makes engineered hardwood more stable and less prone to warping or shrinking due to changes in temperature or humidity. However, solid hardwood can typically be sanded and refinished more times than engineered hardwood. 3. What are the pros and cons of installing engineered hardwood flooring in a kitchen? The pros of installing engineered hardwood flooring in a kitchen include its attractive appearance, comfort underfoot, and durability. However, it can be susceptible to water damage if not properly sealed and maintained. It also has limitations when it comes to refinishing. 4. How do I maintain engineered hardwood flooring in a kitchen? To maintain engineered hardwood flooring in a kitchen, it's important to clean up spills immediately to prevent water damage. Regular sweeping or vacuuming can help remove dirt and debris that could scratch the floor. It's also recommended to use a damp mop and a cleaning product designed for engineered hardwood floors for regular cleaning. 5. Can engineered hardwood flooring be refinished? ​Yes, engineered hardwood flooring can be refinished, but the number of times it can be refinished depends on the thickness of the top layer of wood. It's important to consult with a flooring professional to determine if your engineered hardwood floor can be refinished. Engineered vs Solid Hardwood in Toronto: Is Engineered Flooring Just as Good?![]() As a proud Toronto-based company specializing in all things related to hardwood flooring, we frequently encounter a question that many homeowners and property developers ask: "Is engineered hardwood just as good as solid hardwood?" This is an important question, especially for those of us in the Greater Toronto Area, where climate conditions can greatly impact the longevity and aesthetics of our floors. Understanding Hardwood Flooring: Solid vs. Engineered Before we delve into our main question, it's crucial to understand what we mean by "solid hardwood flooring" and "engineered hardwood flooring". Solid hardwood flooring is exactly what it sounds like: a flooring material made from a solid piece of hardwood. It's renowned for its timeless beauty, durability, and the value it can add to a property. Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, is a layered product. The top layer is real hardwood, but it's bonded to several underlying layers of plywood or high-density fibreboard. This structure provides engineered hardwood with some unique benefits, which we'll discuss in more detail. The Merits of Engineered Hardwood FlooringEngineered hardwood flooring has grown increasingly popular in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, and for good reason. Here are some of the key advantages of engineered hardwood: 1. Stability: Engineered hardwood is less susceptible to warping and movement caused by changes in humidity and temperature. This makes it a great choice for areas where moisture levels can fluctuate, like basements or kitchens. 2. Versatility: Engineered hardwood can be installed over a variety of surfaces, including concrete and radiant heating systems, offering a flexibility that solid hardwood often can't match. 3. Variety: Because the top layer of engineered hardwood is real wood, it comes in as many species and styles as solid hardwood. You can find engineered versions of all your favourite hardwoods, from oak to maple to exotic varieties. Engineered vs Solid Hardwood: A Toronto Perspective![]() In the Toronto climate, where we experience both humid summers and dry winters, the stability of engineered hardwood can be a significant advantage. However, that's not to say that solid hardwood doesn't have its place. Solid hardwood flooring is often seen as the premium choice because of its potential for longevity. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, which can keep it looking great for decades. Engineered hardwood can also be refinished, but the number of times depends on the thickness of the top layer. So, is engineered hardwood just as good as solid hardwood? The answer depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you're looking for maximum longevity and have the right conditions to maintain it, solid hardwood is a fantastic choice. If you need something more versatile and stable, especially in areas with variable moisture or over concrete subfloors, engineered hardwood is likely the better option. In conclusion, both solid and engineered hardwood offer unique benefits and can be the "right" choice depending on your specific needs. As Toronto's hardwood flooring experts, we're here to help you make the best choice for your home or project. Don't hesitate to reach out to us with your hardwood flooring questions! Discover The Benefits of Engineered Hardwood Flooring in Toronto with Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring Ltd.![]() Looking for affordable and durable hardwood flooring in Toronto? Consider engineered hardwood floors from Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring Ltd. Engineered hardwood floors offer many benefits, making them the perfect choice for Toronto's unique climate and lifestyle. Here's a closer look at why engineered hardwood floors are the ideal choice in Toronto: 1. Durability Toronto's climate can be unpredictable at times, from hot and humid summers to cold and damp winters. Engineered hardwood flooring is designed to withstand these fluctuations without warping, cupping, or expanding, making them an excellent choice for Toronto homes and businesses. With the solid hardwood veneer on the top layer, you get the look and durability of solid hardwood at a fraction of the cost. 2. Cost-effective Engineered hardwood is a more affordable option than solid hardwood. It also requires less maintenance over time, making it a cost-effective and sustainable solution for most home and business owners in Toronto. With Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring Ltd, you can get high-quality engineered hardwood flooring at affordable prices, without compromising on style or durability. 3. Variety of Styles and Finishes With engineered hardwood flooring, you can choose from a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes to suit your taste and preferences. At Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring Ltd, we have a vast selection of engineered hardwood flooring options to choose from, so you can find the perfect fit for your Toronto home or business. 4. Easy to Install Installation of engineered hardwood flooring is quick and easy, minimizing disruption to your home or business. With a simple click lock installation system, you can have your new floor installed in no time. Plus, with Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring Ltd, our skilled professionals will take care of everything, from design and preparation to installation and cleanup. Conclusion Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring Ltd is your go-to source for high-quality, affordable, and durable engineered hardwood flooring in Toronto. Our experts are here to help you find the perfect flooring options for your home or business. Contact us today to get started with your flooring project! ![]() 4. Easy to Install Installation of engineered hardwood flooring is quick and easy, minimizing disruption to your home or business. With a simple click lock installation system, you can have your new floor installed in no time. Plus, with Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring Ltd, our skilled professionals will take care of everything, from design and preparation to installation and cleanup. Conclusion Parqueteam Hardwood Flooring Ltd is your go-to source for high-quality, affordable, and durable engineered hardwood flooring in Toronto. Our experts are here to help you find the perfect flooring options for your home or business. Contact us today to get started with your flooring project! ![]() Indeed we cannot be expert in all aspects of life, especially when it comes to home improvement and flooring. However, consumers have plenty of ways to gain knowledge, and prepare themselves for upcoming home projects, after all, home improvement projects require some preparation, specially when it comes to hardwood floors. Before installing your new hardwood floors there are few things to keep in mind that will needed to be done before even starting to put the first nail in the first board.
That is it; we are ready now to install brand new hardwood flooring! Good luck! ![]() One of the most common problems we encounter with hardwood floors in Toronto is damages and scratches. There are many causes that can damage your hardwood floors over time. Certain areas of the home are high traffic areas; these ones usually get the biggest damages (such as entry and kitchen). Also, shiny take in mind shiny floors show more damages and scratches that exists on your floor (opposed to satin finish or wire brushed finish). If your hardwood floor is scratched and damaged, maybe its time for a good sanding and refinishing. One of the main benefits of having a hardwood floor is that it’s always possible to refinish the floor instead of replacing it when damages happen, or once its warn off. This process helps avoiding the costly process of removing existing floor and replacing it with a new one (unless you have 100 years old floors, then there is no point on refinishing). The best part of this process? You can choose almost any color you want for your new stain. So not only you getting new looking floor, but also you can also change the color, as well as the finish (from shiny to less shiny for example) Overall, refinishing hardwood floors is beneficial for both, people who damaged their floors over time, and people who tired of the color of the existing floor they have. The good news, we saved you time and money to turn around things! ![]() Choosing an appropriate flooring type for a commercial venue might be an exhausting and time consuming process. There are many factors to consider when installing hardwood or laminate flooring at a commercial venue, such as weather the space has high traffic or low, or weather is basement level or ground floor. Also types of subfloors are important as well. Three main types of flooring a commercial space owner can consider is: Solid hardwood flooring, engineered flooring and laminated There are also wide variety of wood types, texture, color and types of grain associated with wood species, and different pattern with laminated floors. Perhaps the best choice for business facility owners would be an engineered hardwood flooring, one that has a hand scraped finish or wire brushed finish, if the space has high traffic.. Engineered flooring, as a product is also known for great stability due to its structure. Engineered flooring will last for decades without fading from high traffic and/or direct sunlight. The second best option is laminate flooring due to its high resistance to any damages such as scratches and stains; it is also significantly cheaper than hardwood or engineered, which might be a good short-run investment. Laminate flooring maybe not real hardwood floor, but it has a similar look and sometimes texture as well. Now that you equipped with some information, do not hesitate and call your local hardwood flooring installation company. ![]() Condos are growing phenomenon in Toronto. As sales and new condo builds keep rising (just look at the amount of cranes we have), so does the demand for hardwood flooring in these condos. Along the years different types of engineered hardwood flooring in Toronto were introduced, and so did different methods of hardwood (engineered) flooring installation came along, that suit condo conditions and rules. Below are main systems used by professional hardwood flooring installers: *Glue tongue and groove system: Simple installation, as the installer puts glue in the groove and puts together the hardwood flooring planks (tongue to groove). Along the process, every few lines, the installer should tape (using tape that friendly for varnish and stain) the planks together so they stay tight until the glue completely dries (usually 24 hours to be sure) *Click-lock flooring installation system: In this case, two planks are simply clicked together like a puzzle, similar to laminate flooring installation. The installation is faster and simpler, and therefore cost for this type of installation is usually lower than the rest. *Glue-down method: widely used within the flooring installation industry, especially for parquet type of wood flooring. Today you can glue any type of engineered hardwood flooring using the glue down method (or double). This method usually being used over concrete subfloor, but also can be used in a house where sub floor is wooden. This method will be more costly than the rest of the above installation methods, but also the best in terms of durability and quality. There are many factors that could aspect the system or method being used for flooring installation. Additional research and knowledge about different installation systems will enable you to make an informative choice. You may visit our page for more details on flooring installation methods, or browse around our blogs as information constantly posted. ![]() Recently, a lot of our clients have been asking us about environmentally friendly hardwood floors, and how to make a purchase of hardwood flooring with the least damage caused to the environment. We say it is a great question. And our answer is simple: Use engineered hardwood floors. One of the main concerns people have had with engineered hardwood floors is the claim that they are not real. Let’s get this claim straight: It is simply not true. The top layer of the engineered hardwood floors is made of real wood, (in some cases bottom too, for more expensive types), and the bottom (or middle) made of different layers of plywood. This particular structure eliminates the full solid wood structure, which tends to waste more wood. Also, that same-engineered hardwood floors has enough thick wood thread on top to be able to refinish it in the future. So, next time you go to shop for hardwood floors, and worries about the environment, then do not hesitate to go for the engineered hardwood floors. It is durable, in some cases cheaper, looks exactly the same like solid hardwood, but better for the environment. |
Parqueteam Hardwood FlooringHardwood Flooring Toronto and The Greater Toronto Area. Archives
September 2023
Categories
All
|