Many of the decisions made regarding flooring, in terms of what buyers will prefer to see, will be market specific. Often the price-point of the house will dictate the extent of upgrades required for flooring.

Updates and Repairs

• Replace worn, stained, or outdated carpet

• Stretch and tack down loose carpet

• Check grout for condition, and re-grout cracked or recessed grout (clean stained or discoloured grout)

• Touch-up minor floor scratches

• Refinish worn hardwood

• Upgrade as necessary

Types of Flooring

Laminate

• Most often used to replicate wood, this versatile and durable flooring can also mimic the look of tile

• Available in a range of quality – a good quality laminate can be much more durable than hardwood (not as sensitive to temperature and humidity changes)

• Not easily scratched or dented, and therefore ideal for use with pets and kids

• Easy to install, and may be installed over most types of flooring

• Good for medium to lower priced homes – considered an inexpensive upgrade by buyers

• Not ideal in areas prone to moisture (i.e. bathrooms, laundry room, or kitchen)

• Works best in living rooms, bedrooms, and basements

Hardwood Flooring

• Has a natural pattern and colour, and the pattern will have variations

• Some woods are not actually “hard” woods, despite their name, and have a low level of durability

• Will expand and contract depending on temperature – should be installed in rooms that experience a fairly consistent temperature and humidity level

• If hardwood floors already exist in a home, consider refinishing to update colour and remove scratches

• Engineered vs Natural

  • Both are great products, very durable

  • For comparable quality, the pricing for either is generally relatively similar

  • Engineered:

    • Less sensitive to humidity and temperature changes

    • Not recommended to be sanded and refinished

    • Available in wider plank sizes than natural

    • May be installed on any level of the house

    • Natural:

      • Will expand and contract due to temperature and humidity changes – should be installed to allow for this without buckling

      • May be sanded and refinished numerous times (approximately 10 times on average)

      • Recommended in above-grade rooms only

      • Works best in living rooms and bedrooms, but great for any room above grade

TIP: Avoid distinct or trendy wood features for the purpose of resale

Tiles

• Travertine and natural stone tiles have a varying texture and colour

• Natural stone tiles should be re-sealed regularly

• Porcelain tiles are harder and more durable than ceramic, but often more expensive

• Ceramic tiles often mimic porcelain tiles but are less durable and may crack or break if items are dropped on them

• Tiles should be installed on flat surfaces, otherwise grout will crack, as could the tiles

• Tiles can be a cold surface if heating is not installed with it

• Good for installing as an upgrade from linoleum

• Works best in bathrooms, entries, and laundry rooms

Carpet

• Once considered a luxury item, carpet is now considered an inexpensive flooring option, and is much less appealing to most buyers

• Considered less hygienic – people with allergies often opt for a home that is carpet-free (if the carpet is being removed from a home, consider replacing it with a non-carpet flooring alternative – i.e. hardwood)

• Varies in height, known as “pile” – a higher pile generally reflects a higher cost as well

• Always ensure a high-quality under-pad is installed to maximize the value of the carpet

• Works best in basements or bedrooms