Best Hardwood in Alberta: Read This Before Buying! (5 Tips)

Read This Before Buying! (5 Tips)

Are you ready to transform your home with the timeless elegance of hardwood flooring, but don’t know where to start in Alberta’s diverse market?

I get it. Choosing the right hardwood can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, from different wood species to varying finishes. But don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through it.

As a flooring contractor with years of experience in Alberta, I’ve seen firsthand what works and what doesn’t. I’m going to share my top 5 tips to help you make the best decision for your home.

1. Understanding Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is a classic choice that adds warmth, beauty, and value to any home. It’s made from a single piece of wood, typically from deciduous trees like oak, maple, or hickory.

Why is Hardwood so Popular?

• Durability: Hardwood floors are incredibly durable and can last for decades with proper care.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The natural beauty of wood grain and color variations adds character and charm to any room.
• Increased Property Value: Homes with hardwood floors often command a higher resale value.

Hardwood Options in Alberta

Alberta offers a wide range of hardwood options, both domestic and imported.

• Domestic: Oak, maple, birch, and ash are commonly sourced from Canadian forests.
• Imported: Exotic species like Brazilian cherry, walnut, and mahogany can add a unique touch.

2. The Alberta Hardwood Market

The hardwood market in Alberta is unique due to our climate and access to natural resources. We see regional trends influenced by both style preferences and practical considerations.

Regional Trends

In urban areas like Calgary and Edmonton, I often see a preference for lighter-toned hardwoods like maple and white oak. These species create a bright and modern feel.

In more rural areas, darker woods like walnut and hickory are popular. They offer a rustic and traditional aesthetic.

The Influence of Climate

Alberta’s climate, with its cold winters and dry summers, can significantly impact hardwood flooring. Fluctuations in humidity can cause wood to expand and contract, leading to gaps or cupping if not properly managed.

Sustainable Sourcing

It’s crucial to source hardwood from sustainable and responsible suppliers. Look for certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure the wood is harvested ethically and sustainably. Alberta has strict forestry regulations, but it’s always good to do your research.

3. Tips for Choosing the Best Hardwood

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: choosing the best hardwood for your needs. Here are my top 5 tips, based on years of experience working with Alberta homeowners.

Tip 1: Know Your Wood Species

Understanding the characteristics of different wood species is crucial. Each species has unique properties that affect its appearance, durability, and performance.

Source: National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA)

Oak: Oak is a classic choice known for its durability and distinctive grain pattern. Red oak has a slightly reddish hue, while white oak is more neutral.

Maple: Maple is a harder wood with a fine, uniform grain. It’s a great option for modern homes and high-traffic areas.

Hickory: Hickory is the hardest domestic wood species. It boasts a bold, rustic grain pattern and is ideal for country-style homes.

Cherry: Cherry has a rich, reddish-brown color that deepens over time. It’s a softer wood, so it’s best suited for low-traffic areas.

Birch: Birch offers a smooth surface with a subtle grain pattern. It’s a versatile option that’s often more budget-friendly than oak or maple.

Tip 2: Consider Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle plays a significant role in determining the best hardwood for your home. Do you have pets? Children? How much foot traffic does your home experience?

Pets: If you have pets, especially large dogs, you’ll want to choose a harder wood like hickory or maple to resist scratches and dents. Also, consider a finish that’s scratch-resistant and easy to clean.

Children: With kids, durability is key. Opt for a harder wood and a durable finish that can withstand spills and roughhousing.

Foot Traffic: High-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms require a durable wood species and a resilient finish. Oak, maple, and hickory are all excellent choices.

I had a client with three active kids and two large dogs. They initially wanted a softer wood like cherry, but after discussing their lifestyle, we decided on a distressed hickory with a durable matte finish. It held up beautifully and still looked great after years of use.

Tip 3: Evaluate Environmental Factors

Alberta’s climate can be tough on hardwood flooring. The dry winters can cause wood to shrink, while the humid summers can cause it to expand.

Humidity Levels: Maintaining consistent humidity levels in your home is crucial. I recommend using a humidifier during the winter months to prevent the wood from drying out and cracking.

Temperature Fluctuations: Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations in your home. Keep your thermostat set at a consistent temperature to minimize stress on the wood.

Acclimation: Before installation, it’s essential to acclimate the hardwood to your home’s environment. This involves leaving the wood in the room for several days to adjust to the temperature and humidity levels.

I once had a client who skipped the acclimation process. Within a few months, their new hardwood floors started cupping and gapping. They had to spend a significant amount of money to repair the damage. Don’t make the same mistake!

Tip 4: Budgeting for Your Purchase

Hardwood flooring can be a significant investment. It’s important to create a realistic budget that includes both materials and labor.

Material Costs: The cost of hardwood flooring varies depending on the species, grade, and finish. Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $15 per square foot for materials alone.

Labor Costs: Professional installation can add another $3 to $8 per square foot. The cost will depend on the complexity of the job and the installer’s rates.

Additional Costs: Don’t forget to factor in additional costs such as underlayment, trim, and disposal fees.

Long-Term Savings: While hardwood flooring may have a higher upfront cost, it can last for decades with proper care, making it a worthwhile investment in the long run. Plus, it can increase the value of your home.

I always advise my clients to get multiple quotes from different installers. This helps them get a better understanding of the market rates and find a qualified professional within their budget.

Tip 5: Installation and Maintenance Considerations

Proper installation and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and beauty of your hardwood floors.

Installation Methods: There are three main installation methods:

• Nail-Down: This method involves nailing the hardwood planks directly to the subfloor. It’s best suited for solid hardwood floors.
• Glue-Down: This method involves gluing the hardwood planks to the subfloor. It’s a good option for engineered hardwood floors.
• Floating: This method involves interlocking the hardwood planks together and floating them over an underlayment. It’s a popular choice for DIYers and can be used with both solid and engineered hardwood floors.

Professional Installation vs. DIY: While DIY installation can save you money, it’s often best to hire a professional installer, especially if you’re not experienced. A professional installer will ensure that the job is done correctly and that your floors look their best.

Maintenance Tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum your hardwood floors regularly to remove dirt and debris.
• Use Proper Cleaning Products: Use only cleaning products that are specifically designed for hardwood floors.
• Avoid Excess Moisture: Wipe up spills immediately to prevent water damage.
• Use Protective Pads: Place protective pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents.
• Refinish When Necessary: Over time, hardwood floors may need to be refinished to restore their original beauty.

I’ve seen countless DIY installations gone wrong. From uneven surfaces to improperly installed planks, these mistakes can be costly to fix. Unless you’re a seasoned DIYer, I highly recommend hiring a professional installer.

4. Where to Buy Hardwood in Alberta

Choosing the right supplier is just as important as choosing the right hardwood. Here are a few reputable suppliers and retailers in Alberta:

• Alberta Hardwood Flooring (Multiple Locations): A well-established company with a wide selection of hardwood flooring options.
• Divine Flooring (Calgary & Edmonton): Known for their high-quality products and excellent customer service.
• Kentwood Floors (Available through retailers): Offers a variety of stylish and durable hardwood floors.
• The Floor Store (Multiple Locations): A large retailer with a wide range of flooring options, including hardwood.

Assessing a Supplier’s Credibility:

• Check Reviews: Read online reviews to see what other customers have to say about their experience.
• Ask for References: Ask the supplier for references from past customers.
• Visit Their Showroom: Visit their showroom to see the quality of their products firsthand.
• Inquire About Warranty: Make sure the supplier offers a warranty on their products.

I always recommend visiting a supplier’s showroom to see the hardwood in person. This allows you to get a better feel for the color, grain pattern, and texture. It’s also a great opportunity to ask questions and get expert advice.

5. Final Thoughts

Choosing the best hardwood flooring for your Alberta home requires careful consideration of various factors. From understanding the different wood species to evaluating environmental factors, it’s essential to do your research and make an informed decision.

Remember to consider your lifestyle, budget, and installation method. And don’t forget the importance of proper maintenance to keep your floors looking their best for years to come.

Conclusion

I hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the world of hardwood flooring in Alberta. With the knowledge you’ve gained, you’re now well-equipped to embark on your hardwood flooring journey.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to local flooring professionals for expert advice and guidance. And remember, investing in quality hardwood flooring is an investment in the beauty, value, and longevity of your home.

Now, go ahead and transform your home with the timeless elegance of hardwood! You’ve got this!

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