Top Hardwood Flooring Brands In Edmonton: Reviews? (Explained)

“Hardwood flooring is not just a surface; it’s a story beneath your feet,” says a flooring expert I once met at a trade show. This statement resonates with me as I’ve spent years in the flooring industry, experiencing both the beauty and the challenges of installing hardwood floors in homes across Edmonton. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with some of the top hardwood flooring brands available in our city, along with tips, tricks, and personal anecdotes to help you make an informed decision for your home.

Exploring Top Hardwood Flooring Brands

I’ve worked with various hardwood flooring brands over the years, and each has its unique qualities, strengths, and weaknesses. It’s fascinating how each brand can tell a different story through its products.

1. Bruce Hardwood Floors

Bruce is a name that often comes up when people talk about hardwood flooring. I remember my first installation of Bruce hardwood in a cozy family home in Mill Woods. The homeowners were thrilled with the natural oak finish, which brought warmth to their living space.

Pros:

  • Wide range of styles and colors.
  • Good durability for residential use.
  • Easy installation process.

Cons:

  • Some products may be prone to scratches.
  • Price can vary significantly depending on the style.

I found that the installation process went smoothly with Bruce. Their click-lock system made it easy to fit planks together without excessive glue or nails, saving me time and effort. One thing I noticed is that the finish on Bruce hardwood tends to highlight the natural grain beautifully, which adds character to any room.

2. Mohawk Flooring

Mohawk has a reputation for being eco-friendly, and that’s something I appreciate. I had a client who was very conscious about sustainability, so we opted for Mohawk’s engineered hardwood. It not only looked great but was also made from responsibly sourced materials.

Pros:

  • Environmentally friendly options.
  • Excellent warranty coverage.
  • Variety of textures and finishes.

Cons:

  • Some lines can be on the pricier side.
  • Availability might vary by location.

The installation was relatively simple, but I did notice that the planks were slightly thicker than others I had used. This meant I had to adjust my tools accordingly, but the final look was worth it. Plus, seeing my client’s satisfaction when they learned about Mohawk’s commitment to sustainability was truly rewarding.

3. Shaw Floors

Shaw has become a staple in many homes due to their stylish designs and reliable quality. I recall a challenging project where I had to install Shaw hardwood in a high-traffic area of a commercial space in downtown Edmonton.

Pros:

  • Strong performance in high-traffic areas.
  • Good selection of styles.
  • Competitive pricing.

Cons:

  • Some styles may not be as unique.
  • Limited color options in certain collections.

Despite my initial concerns about durability, Shaw performed exceptionally well in that busy environment. It’s great to see how it holds up over time, even when faced with daily wear and tear. I remember one particular moment when a client called me back a year later, praising how well the flooring held up despite the traffic from customers.

4. Kahrs Flooring

Kahrs stands out for its Swedish craftsmanship and innovative designs. I had an opportunity to work with their products in a modern condo in Edmonton’s Ice District. The homeowners wanted something sleek and contemporary, and Kahrs delivered.

Pros:

  • Unique design options.
  • Great stability and durability.
  • Easy maintenance.

Cons:

  • Higher price point compared to local brands.
  • Limited availability in some stores.

The visual appeal of Kahrs is undeniable. However, the higher cost meant that I had to discuss budgeting carefully with the clients. FloorTally helped me create an accurate cost estimate by factoring in local material and labor rates, ensuring transparency throughout the process. When we finally installed it, the homeowners were ecstatic about how it complemented their modern décor.

5. Armstrong Flooring

Armstrong offers both traditional and modern options, making it versatile for various tastes. I remember working on a renovation project where we replaced old flooring with Armstrong’s hardwood, which gave the space a fresh new look.

Pros:

  • Wide selection of styles and finishes.
  • Affordable options available.
  • Good warranty policies.

Cons:

  • Some products can be less durable.
  • Installation requires careful planning.

What I found particularly helpful was their detailed installation guide, which made my work easier. It’s important to follow these guidelines closely to avoid any pitfalls during the process. The end result was a stunning transformation that left the homeowners thrilled with their choice.

  1. Evaluate Your Lifestyle: Consider how much foot traffic your floors will endure. If you have pets or children, opt for more durable options that can withstand wear and tear.
  2. Think About Maintenance: Some finishes require more upkeep than others. Choose something that fits your lifestyle; otherwise, you may find yourself overwhelmed with cleaning responsibilities.
  3. Consider Climate: Edmonton’s climate can be quite harsh with extreme temperatures and humidity fluctuations. Make sure you select wood that can withstand these changes without warping or cracking.
  4. Budget Wisely: Use tools like FloorTally to get accurate estimates for your project. It helps avoid surprises down the line and allows for better planning.
  5. Seek Professional Advice: Don’t hesitate to consult with flooring professionals. They can provide insights tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Maintenance Tips for Hardwood Floors

Once you’ve chosen your hardwood flooring, proper maintenance is key to ensuring its longevity:

  • Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the surface. A quick daily clean can save you from extensive repairs later on.
  • Use Appropriate Cleaners: Opt for products specifically designed for hardwood floors to avoid damaging the finish. I’ve seen too many people use harsh chemicals that leave their floors looking dull.
  • Control Humidity: Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed to maintain consistent humidity levels in your home. This is particularly important during Edmonton’s dry winters or humid summers.
  • Protect Against Scratches: Place rugs in high-traffic areas and use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches. I once did an installation where the homeowners were surprised at how quickly scratches appeared after moving furniture without protection.

Personal Anecdotes: Successes and Challenges

In my career as a flooring contractor, I’ve encountered numerous successes and challenges while working with different hardwood brands.

Success Story: A Family Home Transformation

One memorable project involved transforming an older family home in Strathcona into a warm and welcoming space using Shaw hardwood floors. The family wanted something durable yet stylish since they had two energetic kids and a dog.

We decided on Shaw’s engineered hardwood because it offered great durability without compromising on aesthetics. The installation went smoothly, and seeing their faces light up upon completion was worth every hour spent on the job.

Challenge: Dealing with Climate Issues

On another occasion, I faced some challenges when working with an imported hardwood brand during a particularly dry winter in Edmonton. The wood contracted due to low humidity levels, resulting in gaps between some planks after installation.

This experience taught me the importance of acclimating hardwood flooring before installation and educating clients about potential climate impacts on their floors. It’s essential to consider local weather conditions when selecting materials for any flooring project.

Expanding Your Knowledge: Technical Specifications

Understanding the technical aspects of hardwood flooring can significantly impact your buying decision:

Wood Species

Different wood species offer varying hardness levels and aesthetic qualities:

  • Oak: Known for its strength and durability; it has a prominent grain pattern that adds character.
  • Maple: A harder wood compared to oak; features subtle grain patterns and is ideal for high-traffic areas.
  • Cherry: Has a rich color that deepens over time; softer than oak but offers unique beauty.

Finish Types

Choosing the right finish is crucial for both appearance and maintenance:

  • Oil-Based Finish: Provides a warm appearance but requires more maintenance over time.
  • Water-Based Finish: Dries quickly and offers a more modern look; it’s also easier to clean but may not be as durable as oil-based finishes.
  • Pre-Finished vs. Site-Finished: Pre-finished flooring is sanded and sealed at the factory, while site-finished allows for customization during installation but takes longer.

Thickness

Hardwood floors typically come in three thicknesses:

  • Solid Hardwood (¾ inch): Offers longevity but might be susceptible to moisture issues if improperly installed.
  • Engineered Hardwood (½ inch to ¾ inch): More stable than solid wood; ideal for basements or areas prone to moisture.
  • Thin Plank Options (⅜ inch): Great for retrofitting over existing floors but may not last as long as thicker options.

Cost Estimation: How FloorTally Helps

One of my go-to tools for estimating costs accurately is FloorTally. It streamlines my estimating process by taking local material prices into account and allowing me to customize options based on each client’s needs.

For instance, when working on that family home in Strathcona, FloorTally helped me calculate costs quickly by factoring in both the price of Shaw hardwood planks and labor rates in Edmonton. This transparency made it easier for me to present an accurate budget upfront, helping build trust with my clients from day one.

FloorTally also allows me to input various area types seamlessly when dealing with multiple rooms or complex layouts, ensuring that I cover every detail of the project scope before starting any work.

Final Thoughts: Comparative Analysis

After comparing these brands and reflecting on my experiences, each has its strengths tailored to different needs:

  1. Bruce: Excellent for those who want variety without breaking the bank; their easy installation makes them popular among DIY enthusiasts.
  2. Mohawk: Shines for eco-conscious buyers looking for sustainable options; their extensive warranty coverage adds peace of mind.
  3. Shaw: Suits high-traffic environments perfectly; their competitive pricing makes them attractive for budget-conscious homeowners.
  4. Kahrs: Appeals to those seeking unique designs with a premium price tag; their superior stability justifies the investment for many clients.
  5. Armstrong: Offers affordable options that still deliver quality; their wide selection caters to diverse tastes.

Selecting the right hardwood flooring brand ultimately comes down to personal preferences and lifestyle needs. By considering factors like cost, durability, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your home for years to come.

So what do you think? Are you leaning towards any particular brand after reading this? If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask! Remember, every choice contributes to the story your floors will tell in your home!

Learn more

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *