Ottawa's Best Hardwood (Top 3 Picks Now!)

Ever hear the one about the hardwood floor that went to therapy? It had too many layers of issues!

(Okay, okay, I promise I’ll stick to flooring advice and leave the stand-up to the professionals.)

But seriously, choosing the right hardwood flooring is no laughing matter.

It’s a big decision that impacts your home’s look, feel, and even its value.

Think of hardwood as the little black dress of home decor – always stylish, always classy.

And in Ottawa, with our crazy weather and unique style, picking the right hardwood is crucial.

That’s why I’m here!

As a flooring contractor in Ottawa for over 15 years, I’ve seen it all – the good, the bad, and the downright disastrous flooring choices.

I’ve tripped over my fair share of poorly installed planks, and I’ve also witnessed the sheer joy a beautiful, well-chosen hardwood floor can bring to a home.

So, I’m going to walk you through my top three hardwood flooring options currently available in Ottawa.

We’re talking quality, style, and bang for your buck.

Consider this your friendly guide to navigating the world of hardwood and making a choice you’ll love for years to come.

Let’s dive in!

Section 1: Overview of Hardwood Flooring in Ottawa

Ottawa, oh Ottawa!

A city of history, beauty, and very distinct seasons.

Our flooring needs to be as resilient as we are!

Market Trends

Right now, I’m seeing a huge trend towards wider planks.

Think 5-inch or even 7-inch boards. They create a more modern, open feel.

Also, matte finishes are in.

They hide scratches and dirt better than high-gloss and give a more relaxed vibe.

Color-wise, grey and natural tones are still super popular.

People are loving that Scandinavian-inspired, light, and airy look.

But I’m also seeing a resurgence of warmer browns, especially with the increasing popularity of richer, more traditional decor styles.

Benefits of Hardwood Flooring

Why choose hardwood in the first place?

Well, let’s count the ways:

Longevity: Hardwood can last for decades, even centuries, with proper care. I’ve seen floors in historic Ottawa homes that are still gorgeous after 100+ years!

Ease of Maintenance: Sweep, vacuum, and occasionally mop. That’s pretty much it. No more endless scrubbing of grout lines!
Aesthetic Appeal: Hardwood adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. It’s timeless and versatile.
Increased Home Value: A beautiful hardwood floor is a major selling point. It’s an investment that pays off.

Indoor Air Quality: Unlike some synthetic flooring options, hardwood doesn’t trap allergens or emit harmful chemicals.

It’s a healthier choice for your family.

Types of Hardwood

Now, let’s talk hardwood types.

There are two main categories:

Solid Hardwood: This is the real deal – a single piece of wood, milled from a tree. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it incredibly long-lasting.
- Pros: Classic look, long lifespan, increases home value.
- Cons: More susceptible to moisture damage, can be more expensive.

Engineered Hardwood: This consists of a thin layer of hardwood veneer bonded to a core of plywood or high-density fiberboard.
- Pros: More resistant to moisture, can be installed below grade (like in basements), often more affordable.
- Cons: Can only be sanded and refinished a limited number of times (depending on the thickness of the veneer).

Section 2: Top 3 Picks for Hardwood Flooring in Ottawa

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff – my top three recommendations for hardwood flooring in Ottawa right now!

These are based on my experience, customer feedback, and overall value.

Pick #1: Kentwood Originals (Available at Flooring Liquidators)

Overview:

Kentwood Originals, available at Flooring Liquidators locations across Ottawa, has been a go-to brand for me for years.

They’ve built a solid reputation for quality and style, and they offer a wide range of options to suit different budgets and tastes.

Flooring Liquidators itself is a major player in the Ottawa flooring market.

They have multiple locations and a huge selection, making them a convenient choice for many homeowners.

Product Details:

I’m particularly impressed with their Brushed Oak collection.

It’s an engineered hardwood with a beautiful, textured surface that really brings out the natural grain of the wood.

It comes in a variety of colors, from light and airy “Seashell” to a richer, warmer “Espresso.”

The planks are a generous 7.5 inches wide, which, as I mentioned earlier, is a very popular size right now.

Quality and Durability:

The Brushed Oak collection features a durable UV-cured finish that resists scratches and wear.

It also boasts a thick wear layer (the actual hardwood veneer), which means it can be sanded and refinished at least once, extending its lifespan.

The core is made of high-density fiberboard, which provides excellent stability and moisture resistance.

Customer Reviews:

I’ve personally installed this flooring in several homes in Ottawa, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

Here’s what some customers have said:

“We absolutely love our new Kentwood floors! They look amazing and are so easy to clean.” – Sarah M., Kanata

“The quality is fantastic, and the price was very reasonable. I would definitely recommend Flooring Liquidators and Kentwood to anyone.” – David L., Barrhaven

Pricing:

The Kentwood Originals Brushed Oak collection typically ranges from $6.99 to $8.99 per square foot at Flooring Liquidators, depending on the color and any ongoing promotions.

Keep an eye out for sales!

Flooring Liquidators often has discounts and special offers.

Pick #2: Vintage Hardwood Flooring (Available at various retailers)

Overview:

Vintage Hardwood Flooring is a Canadian company that specializes in high-quality, handcrafted hardwood floors.

They are less of a chain store, and more of a premium manufacturer who distributes to smaller boutique retailers.

They are known for their unique designs, attention to detail, and commitment to sustainability.

While they may not be as widely available as Kentwood, their products are worth seeking out if you’re looking for something truly special.

Product Details:

I’m a huge fan of their Artisan Collection.

These floors are hand-scraped and distressed, giving them a rustic, vintage look that is full of character.

They use a variety of wood species, including oak, maple, and hickory, and offer a wide range of colors and textures.

One of my favorite options is their Smoked Oak in a matte finish.

It has a rich, smoky color and a beautiful, tactile surface.

Quality and Durability:

Vintage Hardwood Flooring uses only the highest-quality materials and employs skilled artisans to create their floors.

Their products are known for their durability and longevity.

They also use environmentally friendly finishes that are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making them a healthier choice for your home.

Many of their floors are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which ensures that the wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests.

Customer Reviews:

Customers rave about the beauty and quality of Vintage Hardwood Flooring.

Here’s a glimpse of what they’re saying:

“Our Vintage Hardwood floors are the highlight of our renovation. They are absolutely stunning!” – Jennifer P., The Glebe
“The craftsmanship is impeccable. You can tell that these floors were made with care.” – Michael R., Westboro

Pricing:

Vintage Hardwood Flooring is a premium product, and their prices reflect that.

Expect to pay between $9.00 and $15.00 per square foot, depending on the specific product and retailer.

While it’s definitely an investment, the beauty and quality of these floors make them worth the splurge if you can afford it.

Pick #3: Goodfellow (Available at Home Depot and other retailers)

Overview:

Goodfellow is a well-established Canadian company that offers a wide range of building materials, including hardwood flooring.

They are known for their quality, affordability, and commitment to sustainability.

You can find Goodfellow products at major retailers like Home Depot, as well as at smaller independent flooring stores.

This makes them a readily accessible and convenient option for many homeowners.

Product Details:

I often recommend their Solid Hardwood Maple flooring.

Maple is a durable and beautiful wood species that is well-suited to the Ottawa climate.

Goodfellow offers their maple flooring in a variety of grades and finishes, from clear and contemporary to rustic and traditional.

I particularly like their Natural Maple with a semi-gloss finish.

It’s a classic look that will never go out of style.

Quality and Durability:

Goodfellow is committed to using sustainable forestry practices and producing high-quality products.

Their solid hardwood maple flooring is kiln-dried to ensure stability and resistance to warping or cracking.

It also features a durable finish that protects against scratches and wear.

With proper care, a Goodfellow maple floor can last for generations.

Customer Reviews:

Customers appreciate the quality and affordability of Goodfellow products.

Here’s what some have to say:

“We installed Goodfellow maple floors in our living room, and we couldn’t be happier. They look beautiful and were easy to install.” – Karen S., Orleans
“For the price, you can’t beat the quality of Goodfellow hardwood. It’s a great value.” – Tom B., Nepean

Pricing:

Goodfellow solid hardwood maple flooring is one of the more affordable options on the market.

You can typically find it for between $5.00 and $8.00 per square foot, depending on the grade and finish.

This makes it a great choice for homeowners who are on a budget but still want the beauty and durability of real hardwood.

Section 3: Conclusion

So, there you have it – my top three picks for hardwood flooring in Ottawa right now:

Kentwood Originals (at Flooring Liquidators): Great selection, durable finishes, and positive customer reviews.
Vintage Hardwood Flooring: Handcrafted beauty, unique designs, and a commitment to sustainability.

Goodfellow (at Home Depot): Quality, affordability, and readily available.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Hardwood

Choosing hardwood flooring is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Consider your lifestyle, your home’s aesthetic, and your budget.

Think about how much foot traffic your floors will be subjected to, whether you have pets or children, and what kind of look you’re trying to achieve.

Visit different stores, look at samples, and talk to flooring professionals.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

The more information you have, the better equipped you’ll be to make the right choice.

Call to Action

And remember, choosing hardwood is a lot like dating – you want something that looks good, feels great, and will stand the test of time!

So, take your time, do your research, and find the perfect match for your home.

Happy flooring!

Ottawa’s Best Hardwood (Top 3 Picks Now!)