Are you planning to install hardwood flooring in your Toronto-area home? Choosing the right hardwood can make a big difference. Not only do you need a floor that can withstand the rigours of daily life, but you also likely want something that looks stylish.
With so many hardwood floor variants available in Toronto stores, choosing the right one can be difficult. That’s where AA Floors can help. Here, we walk you through different hardwoods ideal for high-traffic areas of your Toronto home.
Let’s get started.
First, Which Areas Of Your Home Are “High-Traffic”?
Before shopping for hardwood flooring in Toronto, determine which areas of your home receive the most traffic. Note: the kitchen, dining room, and living room are typically the busiest.
It is always a good idea to check the hardness level of potential flooring before you buy it. Here is a quick check.
- Low hardness (below 800 lbf) is ideal for closets and other spaces with little foot traffic. (‘Lbf’ refers to pounds-force.)
- Medium hardness (800 to 1,600 lbf) is a good choice for homes with moderate foot traffic.
- High-traffic areas or commercial spaces benefit from high hardness (above 1,600 lbf). These woods can withstand the strain of busy households, active children, and large dogs while reducing dents and scratches.
Best Hardwood for Your Toronto Home’s Floors
If you have an active household, it is always a good idea to consider hardwood flooring, including these species.
1. Teak
Teak is an exotic hardwood full of natural oil, giving it a lustrous sheen even without much finish. It is expensive but worth the investment.
It is crucial to remember that when we talk about teak flooring, we might also talk about ‘traditional’ and ‘Brazilian’ teak. Brazilian teak has a Janka rating of over 3500, making it a very durable material perfect for high-traffic areas of your home. In contrast, traditional teak has a rating of 1000, meaning it is moderately durable.
If you plan to install teak hardwood flooring in your Toronto home, make sure you buy it from a manufacturer that offers a Forest Stewardship Council-certificate. This will ensure that your wood is sourced sustainably. If you want to spend less, consider teak engineered hardwood flooring.
2. Oak
When it comes to installing hardwood in your Toronto home, oak is easily one of the most common species thanks to its availability and popularity. Like teak, oak has two variants: red and white.
Red oak is slightly warmer and more durable, and is best used in medium to low-traffic areas. White oak is more durable and has greyish undertones, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
3. Brazilian Walnut
Brazilian walnut (or Ipe) is one of the hardest and most expensive hardwoods. It has a Janka rating of 3600 and boasts a rich dark chocolate colour with an open grain. It is a luxurious choice, and hiring professionals to install this hardwood flooring in your Toronto-area home is very important. Make sure you budget appropriately.
4. Hickory
Hickory is an excellent option for high-traffic areas. If you are looking for a hardwood floor with a lot of character, this one is a terrific option, with a high Janka rating of 1820.
Hickory is a beautiful addition to your home. And since it’s a dry wood, it easily accepts any stain and finish.
5. Maple
After oak, maple is a popular choice for hardwood flooring. It is available in reddish brown and pale, creamy white varieties, with a Janka rating of 1450. It is a sturdy choice for high-traffic areas. Indeed, maple is so durable that it is widely used for basketball courts.
When shopping for hardwood floors in Toronto, always determine your budget and consider your lifestyle before choosing a material. Take your time and compare different options before making your final decision. For the best results, we recommend hiring professional installers. Get in touch with AA Floors. We can help you choose the best option for your space.
AA Floors & More Ltd.
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