|
 Ask
a HOME BUILDING Professional
The Canadian Home Builders ’
Association is a non-profit organization
dedicated to education, professionalism, consumer
awareness and
housing affordability.
Send your questions to
info@chbavictoria.com.
Question: How do I choose
flooring for my renovation?
Answer: Flooring is an
important part of your décor, adding style to your home and tying
everything together for an integrated look. Flooring is also a practical
feature that must stand the test of time. The past decade has seen the
introduction of many new products that come in many colours, designs,
textures and prices. Look through interior décor magazines, check websites
of flooring manufacturers, and visit retailers' showrooms. A professional
renovator can help you select the right products and advise on
installation. Here are a number of things to consider.
Materials
From hardwood to ceramics, most materials
can be used in a variety of applications. Familiarize yourself with the
benefits for each type of flooring, including options such as laminates,
cork and stone.
Trends in flooring
Laminate floors combine the look of wood
with great performance and durability. "Floating" or "clicking" floors can
be installed over existing floor coverings. Solid wood, a perennial
favorite, comes in a variety of colours and shapes. Create your own
patterns, with coloured insets and border strips. Use wide "distressed"
planks to recreate yesterday's look. Cork is comfortable on the feet,
absorbs noise and is often used in high traffic and activity areas. Stone
(e.g. limestone, slate, marble) is used to create dramatic visual
impressions or rich, natural backgrounds.
Style
Consider compatibility with your décor, as well as the look you want to
achieve. Decide on the main
feature in an area
(e.g. kitchen cabinets) and then select complementary flooring to create a
harmonious look. Some manufacturers' web sites allow you to experiment
with flooring and colours in "virtual" settings.
Durability
Consider wear and tear. For high traffic
areas, choose flooring that is resistant to water, wear, and stains. With
proper selection and maintenance, many products can last the lifetime of
your home. Many products offer low-maintenance and easy cleaning, however,
some require more care and upkeep than others.
Installation
Your renovator can advise you on surface preparations, removal of old
tiles, and installation of sub-flooring. Will you need new baseboards or
trim? How much will this add to the cost?
Environmental sensitivities
Be aware of your family’s
sensitivity to dust, pet dander and other substances that collect in
carpeting or flooring cracks. What about glues, grouts and floor finishes
that may be used during installation? Talk with your renovator.
Appropriate solutions may include pre-finished hard-surface flooring and
low-emission glues and grouts.
Budget
How much can you spend? Is
this your "renovation of a lifetime", or do you plan to move or renovate
again? These tips will help get you started on choosing your flooring.
For examples of award-winning renovations by CHBA
members go to
www.careawards.com. Professional builders, renovators, suppliers and
trades are available online at
www.chbavictoria.com.
Look for "Ask a Home Building
Professional" every Wednesday in the Times Colonist. |