The Hard Line on Installing
Hardwood Flooring in Toronto Homes
The Hard Line on Installing Hardwood Flooring in Toronto Homes
Installing hardwood flooring in Toronto area homes has become the premier choice among contractors, developers, and homeowners. Whether it’s the construction of a new condominium complex, renovating or upgrading an old home, or building a new one, hardwood has become the material of choice for people to walk on. It’s not hard to understand why, as hardwood flooring has many advantages. Let’s take a look at why more and more people are fitting their houses with hardwood flooring in Toronto.
Hardwood Flooring vs. Carpet
Hardwood flooring is sometimes over looked as a flooring choice because of its reputation for warping and twisting. There have indeed been cases when temperature and humidity have caused hardwood floors to expand and contract, creating an unsightly mess. Generally this is caused more by improper finishing or installation. It can be easily avoided by leaving a gap around the edges of the floor, usually about 5/8 of an inch to allow for expansion. Professionally and correctly hardwood floors rarely have this sort of problem, which is even further minimized with engineered hardwood planking.
With engineered hardwood, each plank is laminated in a fashion that prevents any warping, shrinkage or twisting. Strips are laid across and glued to each other in a criss-cross pattern until a complete plank is fashioned. The criss-cross construction resists twisting, bending, or shrinkage of any sort.
An additional they need. After the floor is laid, mopping with soap and water once a week will maintain its luster for years to come. Carpet though can be difficult to keep clean. It is especially susceptible to housing allergens and irritants such as animal dander, mites, and mold. Even if it’s vacuumed regularly the dander, mildew, mold, and mites can remain in the carpet fibers.
Major Advantages of Hardwood Floors
The main advantage of hardwood floors is that they are versatile and can be laid on top of just about any kind of sub flooring material. There are several ways to secure it: it can be nailed down, glued together, or strapped. Each species of hardwood dons its own color and grain formation. The type you select is dependant only on your personal taste and the actual effect you wish to achieve.
Engineered hardwood flooring has an additional advantage, that of convenience. It takes much less time to install it as it is prepared and fully finished before it leaves the factory. All you have to do is install it and the room is finished; no sanding, scraping, or sealing necessary. On top of that, it is very affordable.
The Cost of Hardwood Flooring and Installation in Toronto
Hardwood flooring is priced by the square foot and can cost up to $30 per square foot if you choose to go with a high end wood like Mahogany or Brazilian Cherry. On average however you should pay no more than $7-$12 per square foot – finished and installed. Professionals will charge you separately for each stage of the process, but their quote should include everything from sanding to finishing and installation. Make sure that there are no hidden costs in any agreement you make or estimate you are given.
If you shop around long enough you’ll find special promotional offers and discounts on offer. You’ll be surprised at the savings that can be had by using a design that’s going to be discontinued. The more thought and planning you do in advance, the more likely you’ll find the best quality engineered hardwood flooring in Toronto at the right price.