What will be the most popular hardwood flooring in Canada in 2022? This is a question that many people are asking, and it isn't easy to answer. There are so many different types of hardwood flooring on the market these days that it can be tough to predict which one will come out on top.
However, a few contenders seem to be leading the pack. Let's look at some of the most popular hardwood flooring options in Canada right now!
Hardwood Flooring Types
The type of hardwood flooring you choose will largely depend on your specific needs and preferences. Some of the most popular types include:
Unfinished
Unfinished hardwood flooring is the most common type of hardwood in Canada. This means the wood has been untreated and uncoated, so it needs to be sanded and finished after installation.
Finished
Finished hardwood flooring is pre-treated and sealed, making it easier to clean and maintain than unfinished wood.
Solid
Solid hardwood flooring is usually made from a single piece of wood, making it highly durable and long-lasting.
Engineered
Engineered hardwood flooring comprises multiple layers of wood, with the top layer of solid hardwood. This makes it more durable and stable than traditional hardwood flooring. It's also great for areas where moisture can be an issue, as it won't warp or buckle like other types of wood.
Laminate
Laminate hardwood flooring is a great option for those who want the look of real wood without the maintenance. It's made up of layers of plastic and fiberboard, making it highly durable and easy to clean.
Vinyl Plank
Vinyl plank flooring is also becoming increasingly popular in Canada. This type of flooring is made of PVC and vinyl, making it waterproof and easy to install. It's also great for areas with a lot of foot traffic as it is highly resistant to wear and tear.
Hardwood Floor Species
Many different hardwood species are available to choose from, including white oak, red oak, and maple. Each has its own unique characteristics that make it appealing for different uses:
Acacia
Acacia flooring is a beautiful and unique option for your home. The wood is naturally hard and durable, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
PROS
Acacia flooring is also resistant to scratches and dents, making it a great choice for homes with pets or children.
CONS
However, acacia flooring does have some disadvantages. The wood is very hard, which can make it difficult to install. Additionally, acacia flooring is susceptible to water damage, so it is not the best choice for bathrooms or kitchens.
Ash
Ash flooring is a type of hardwood flooring that is made from the wood of an ash tree. There are many benefits to using ash for flooring, including its hardness and durability.
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider before installing ash floors in your home.
PROS
One advantage of ash flooring is that it is very hard and durable. Ash is one of the hardest woods available, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. It is also less likely to dent or scratch than softer woods like pine. In addition, ash floors are resistant to moisture and rot, making them ideal for use in damp areas such as basements.
CONS
However, one downside of ash floors is that they can be difficult to install. When compared to other hardwoods, ash falls somewhere in the middle in terms of price.
Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba)
Brazilian cherry, also known as jatoba, is a hardwood that is popular for use in flooring.
PROS
One of the biggest advantages of Brazilian cherry flooring is its hardness. It is attractive and durable, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas. Jatoba is one of the hardest woods available and is highly resistant to scratches and dents. This makes it an ideal choice for homes with pets or children. In addition, jatoba is very durable and will last for many years with proper care.
CONS
However, these same qualities can also be disadvantages. Brazilian cherry can be difficult to install and care for, and there may be better home choices. Jatoba is also a very dense wood and may only be suitable for some homes.
Hickory
Hickory floors are a type of hardwood flooring that is known for its strength and durability.
PROS
The wood is very dense, which makes it resistant to dents and scratches. Hickory floors are also naturally resistant to moisture, making them ideal for rooms that see a lot of foot traffic or spills.
CONS
However, hickory floors can be difficult to install, and the wood is susceptible to warping if it is not properly cared for. Hickory floors also tend to be more expensive than other types of hardwood flooring.
Maple
Maple is a hardwood typically used for flooring, furniture, and cabinetry. It has creamy white sapwood and light brown heartwood. Maple is a closed-grain wood with very little visible grain pattern.
PROS
Maple is a very dense wood, and as such, it is resistant to scratches and dents. In addition, maple is a very hard wood, and it can withstand heavy foot traffic without showing signs of wear.
CONS
However, maple flooring is not without its disadvantages. One downside of maple floors is that they can be difficult to keep clean. Maple floors tend to show dirt and dust more easily than other types of hardwood, and they can be difficult to refinish if damaged. In addition, maple floors can be susceptible to water damage, and they should not be installed in areas with high humidity.
Red Oak
Red Oak flooring is one of the market's most popular types of wood flooring. It is well-known for its beautiful reddish hue, which can add a touch of warmth to any room.
PROS
Red oak is beautiful, strong, and versatile and can be used in various settings. Red Oak floors are also relatively easy to care for and maintain.
CONS
Despite its many advantages, there are also a few disadvantages to Red Oak flooring. One of the biggest drawbacks is that it can be quite expensive. Red Oak is not as resistant to scratches and dents as some other types of wood, meaning that it may require more frequent refinishing.
White Oak
White Oak flooring is a popular choice for homeowners looking for a stylish and durable option.
PROS
One of the main advantages of white oak is that it is easy to refinish. It is a relatively simple process if you want to change the colour of your floor or simply refresh the finish. White oak is versatile and pairs well with many different stain colors, from cool greys to warm chocolate.
CONS
However, one downside of white oak is that it can be harder to work with than other options. It is important to take care when installing white oak flooring, as it can be more susceptible to damage. In addition, white oak tends to be more expensive than other options, such as red oak. But overall, white oak is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality and stylish flooring option.
Sucupira
This wood is hard and strong, with a density similar to oak. If left untreated, it has a dark brown appearance but can be treated with oil or lacquer to bring out its natural yellow hue. Sucupira-engineered hardwood flooring is perfect for those who want a durable, long-lasting product that looks great in any home.
PROS
Sucupira is a beautiful, dark hardwood that is becoming increasingly popular as a flooring material. Originating in Latin America, Sucupira is prized for its durability and strength. Sucupira is nearly 30% dense than oak, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
CONS
While Sucupira may be slightly more expensive than some other hardwoods, it provides an attractive and lasting investment for your home.
Tigerwood
Tigerwood flooring is a type of hardwood flooring that is made from the wood of tropical trees. The most common type of tigerwood used for flooring is Schima Superba, which is native to Southeast Asia.
PROS
The advantages of tigerwood flooring include its beautiful colour patterns, exceptional hardness and durability, and its resistance to water damage. With a striking striped grain pattern, this type of wood can liven up any space. Perfect for high-traffic areas, tigerwood is a great choice for lasting floors.
CONS
However, there are some drawbacks to consider before installing tigerwood flooring. The wood can darken over time and is also relatively hard to install. Additionally, tigerwood may not be the most environmentally friendly option available.
Hardwood Flooring Dimensions
There are different dimensions of hardwood flooring products available based on width, thickness and length. Every manufacturer has its specifications for wood floor production lines, so not every product is unique. However, due to the various sizes offered by manufacturers, not every company will offer a complete list of hardwood floors in all possible dimensions. There are some standards that most wood flooring products adhere to when it comes to consumers' choice of hardwood floors.
Solid Hardwood Flooring Dimensions
Unfinished and prefinished solid hardwood flooring is typically 3/4 of an inch thick. They come in numerous widths from 1 1/2 to 8 inches (8 millimetres = 5/16"). The actual wearing layer of solid wood is normally only 5/16", but it can be refinished a few times because it's sanded down each time. Most flooring in this category will have random-length strips or planks that range from 12 to 84 inches, depending on the product.
Engineered Hardwood Floor Dimensions
Standard sizes of engineered wood are comparable to solid hardwood, but wider products are more common because engineered wood is much more dimensionally stable. The thickness of the product typically wears down to 1/4 inch, but some might be thinner, making it difficult or impossible to sand and refinish.
Floating engineered hardwood floors are typically wider than 4 inches and come in long pieces. Many floating floors have the same length, which makes it possible to create a uniform pattern during installation. Other unique characteristics of floating flooring include an imitation of a few narrow strips on one wide plank.
Hand-Scraped Hardwood Flooring
Hand-scraped hardwood flooring is made using a process called hand scraping. This involves using a sharp blade or another tool to scrape away the top layer of wood, revealing the underlying grain. The result is a unique distressed floor, with each plank bearing the marks of the artisan's handiwork.
While this type of flooring is often associated with rustic décors, it can also be used to create a sense of antique luxury in more formal settings. In addition to its visual appeal, hand-scraped hardwood flooring is more durable than standard wood floors, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
Keep in Mind
When shopping for hand-scraped hardwood flooring, it's important to remember that no two floors will be exactly alike. This adds to the charm of this type of flooring, but it also means that you'll need to be careful when selecting planks for your project. Hand-scraped hardwood is an excellent option if you're looking for a truly one-of-a-kind floor.
Hand-Scraped & Distressed Hardwood Flooring
Distressed Hardwood Floors
Distressed hardcore is the way to go if you're looking for a flooring option with great texture and a unique look. It often looks like reclaimed wood or hand-scraped floors but with more variation in colors to better suit your home's needs. Plus, its rustic charm provides an excellent feeling unlike any other!
PROS
- Low Maintenance: Unlike other hardwood floors, distressed floors don't require regular waxing or polishing. Simple sweeping and mopping are all needed to keep them looking clean and polished.
- Sturdy: Distressed hardwood floors are highly resistant to scratches, dents, and wear and tear. Thanks to their rugged construction, they can withstand heavy foot traffic and furniture without showing signs of wear.
- Impressive outlook: There's no denying that distressed hardwood floors have a distinctive look that can add character and warmth to any room. This is it if you're looking for a flooring option that will make a statement.
CONS
- Not Environmentally Conscious: Many people choose hardwood floors for their eco-friendly credentials. However, distressed floors are not necessarily the most sustainable option, as they often contain harmful chemicals that can pollute the air and water.
- Quite Expensive: Distressed hardwood floors can cost considerably more than other hardwood floors. If you're working with a tight budget, this might not be your best option.
Hand Scraped Floors
Hand-scraped floors are admired for their countryside vibe, which makes the wood's qualities pop. Its textures are also a bit more robust than other flooring types, creating a one-of-a-kind look. Manufacturers go through different production levels to achieve this style, ensuring that each plank is unique. Hand-scraped floors are created by planks being run through machines. This process creates a beautiful finish that will make your house look more sophisticated.
PROS
In addition to their visual appeal, hand-scraped floors are also more durable than traditional hardwood floors. These floors are highly resistant to scratches and scuffs, making them ideal for busy households with children and pets. One of the biggest benefits of hand-scraped hardwood floors is that they are easy to maintain. In addition, hand-scraped floors can be great for hiding dirt and debris, as the textured surface helps to camouflage any messes.
CONS
However, one downside of hand-scraped hardwood floors is that they can be expensive. These floors are typically more expensive than other types of hardwood floors, and they may also require professional installation. Also, the textured surface can make hand-scraped hardwood floors difficult to clean in tight spaces or corners.
Smooth Hardwood Flooring
Smooth hardwood flooring is the more traditional option for homeowners looking to upgrade their floors. This flooring doesn't have grooves or textured surfaces, providing a sleek and contemporary look.
PROS
On the plus side, they are easier to clean than textured floors. You can use premade wax cleaning solutions and maintain their finish and shine. Smooth flooring is also a better option for people with respiratory conditions and allergies.
CONS
The downside to smooth flooring is that the dings, dents, and scuffs will be visible. You'll also have to be careful not to slip on them when they're wet.
Wire Brushed Hardwood Flooring
Wire-brushed hardwood floors are created by brushing the wood planks with steel bristles, giving them a unique and rustic look. This flooring is ideal for those looking to add character to their home.
PROS
Wire-brushed hardwood floors are incredibly beautiful and durable, making them ideal for busy households. They are also easy to maintain, as they don't require waxing or polishing. Wire-brushed floors are more resistant to scratches and dents than traditional hardwood floors.
CONS
However, one downside of wire-brushed hardwood floors is that they can be quite expensive. This is because it takes longer to produce them than other types of hardwood floors. Additionally, wire-brushed floors may require professional installation due to the complexity of the process. Furthermore, these floors can be more difficult to clean in tight spaces or corners due to their texture.