Where To Buy Hardwood Flooring In Edmonton? (Explained)
Finding the right place to buy hardwood flooring in Edmonton can be a real headache. I’ve been there, standing in a vast showroom, feeling overwhelmed by the choices and uncertain about which store would offer the best quality at a reasonable price. It can be frustrating when you want to create that beautiful, inviting space but aren’t sure where to start your search for the perfect flooring.
In this article, I’ll take you through everything I’ve learned about where to buy hardwood flooring in Edmonton—covering local stores, online options, cost considerations, installation tips, and maintenance advice. Let’s get into it!Where to Start Your Search
I’ve learned that starting with a little research can save you a lot of time and stress. In Edmonton, there are several reputable places to purchase hardwood flooring. Here are some of my top picks based on my experiences and insights.
1. Local Flooring Stores
I always prefer supporting local businesses, and I’ve found a few gems in Edmonton. One of my favorites is Edmonton Carpet & Flooring. They have a great selection of hardwood options, from traditional oak to more exotic species like Brazilian cherry. Their staff is knowledgeable and genuinely helpful, which makes the experience much more pleasant.
Tip: Visit during weekdays if you can. The weekends can get busy, and you might not get the same level of attention.
Another great local store is Floors for Living. They offer a wide range of products and pride themselves on customer service. I’ve had clients who were impressed with how they took the time to understand their needs.
2. Home Improvement Chains
Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s are also good options. They offer a wide variety of flooring at competitive prices, and you can often find sales or discounts. Plus, they usually have samples available so you can see how different styles look in your home.
Experience: I once bought engineered hardwood from Home Depot for a client’s project. The installation went smoothly, and I appreciated that they had staff on hand to answer questions about the installation process.
3. Specialty Flooring Retailers
If you’re looking for something unique, consider checking out specialty flooring retailers like The Floor Shop or Kenny’s Flooring. They often carry higher-end products and unique styles that you won’t find in bigger chains.
I remember walking into The Floor Shop and being blown away by their wide range of environmentally friendly options. They were knowledgeable about the sustainability of their products, which is something I value greatly.
4. Online Options
Don’t forget about online shopping! Websites like Wayfair or BuildDirect have extensive selections. I’ve used BuildDirect for a few projects, and they have competitive pricing along with customer reviews that help guide your decision.
However, buying online comes with its own challenges. You can’t see or feel the product before purchasing, which is crucial with flooring. Make sure to order samples first if you go this route.
5. Liquidation and Discount Centers
For those on a tighter budget, liquidation centers can be a gold mine. Places like The ReStore often have high-quality flooring at reduced prices. Just keep in mind that the selection can be hit or miss.
I remember picking up some stunning reclaimed hardwood at ReStore for a residential renovation project. The character and history behind each plank added a unique touch that my clients adored.
Cost Estimation Tips
One thing that has helped me tremendously in managing costs is using FloorTally for my estimations. When I’m preparing a quote for a client, I input all the necessary details into FloorTally. It takes into account local material costs and labor rates, allowing me to provide accurate estimates quickly.
Having this tool streamlines the budgeting process, making it easier for my clients to understand what they’re paying for and why. Plus, it helps me avoid any surprises later on in the project.
Factors Affecting Cost
When estimating costs for hardwood flooring in Edmonton, consider these factors:
- Type of Hardwood: Exotic woods tend to be pricier than common varieties.
- Installation Method: Nail-down installations are typically more affordable than glue-down or floating methods.
- Room Size: More square footage means more materials, which increases costs.
- Subfloor Preparation: If your subfloor requires additional work, it’ll add to your overall expenses.
Example Cost Breakdown
Let’s break down an example project to give you a clearer picture of what to expect:
- Room Size: 200 square feet
- Hardwood Type: Oak (about $4 per square foot)
- Installation Cost: $1.50 per square foot
- Additional Subfloor Prep: $200
Total Material Cost:
200 sq ft x $4/sq ft = $800
Total Installation Cost:
200 sq ft x $1.50/sq ft = $300
Total Project Cost:
$800 (materials) + $300 (installation) + $200 (prep) = $1300
Having this kind of breakdown handy not only helps in budgeting but also builds trust with clients.
Installation Challenges
I’ve encountered various challenges during installation that have taught me valuable lessons. One memorable project involved installing hardwood in an older home with uneven floors. It required extra leveling work, which pushed back our timeline and increased costs.
Tip: Always assess the subfloor condition before committing to an installation date. If there are issues, address them upfront to avoid delays later.
Another challenge I faced was moisture control when installing hardwood in a basement area. Understanding how humidity affects wood is crucial; it can warp or buckle over time if not managed properly.
Overcoming Installation Challenges
Here’s how I tackled some of these common issues:
- Leveling Uneven Floors:
- I used self-leveling compound to smooth out the subfloor before laying down any hardwood.
- This helped create a solid surface for installation.
- Moisture Control:
- Before installation, I checked for moisture levels using a moisture meter.
- I recommended using vapor barriers when necessary to prevent moisture damage.
- Acclimation:
- I always allow hardwood to acclimate in the home environment for several days before installation.
- This helps minimize expansion or contraction once installed.
Maintenance Considerations
After spending considerable time and money on hardwood flooring, it’s essential to think about maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional refinishing can keep your floors looking new for years.
I recommend using a gentle cleanser specifically designed for hardwood flooring to avoid damaging the finish. Additionally, placing mats at entryways can help reduce dirt and debris getting tracked in.
Routine Maintenance Tips
Here are some practical tips I’ve picked up over the years:
- Daily Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt.
- Mopping: Use a damp mop with an appropriate cleaner every few weeks.
- Refinishing: Depending on traffic and wear, consider refinishing every 3-5 years.
- Humidity Control: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent warping.
Comparing Different Options
When buying hardwood flooring, it’s essential to compare different options thoroughly. For instance, engineered hardwood can be less expensive than solid hardwood but still provides a similar aesthetic.
In one project, I opted for engineered hardwood due to its moisture resistance and stability in varying temperatures—perfect for Edmonton’s climate! My clients were thrilled with the final result and appreciated how easy it was to maintain.
Solid vs Engineered Hardwood
- Solid Hardwood:
- Made from solid pieces of wood.
- Can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
- Susceptible to moisture changes.
- Engineered Hardwood:
- Composed of multiple layers.
- More resistant to moisture fluctuations.
- Offers similar aesthetic appeal but limited refinishing options.
Choosing between solid and engineered hardwood depends on the specific needs of your home environment.
Customization Options
When purchasing hardwood flooring, many stores offer customization options such as stains or finishes that can enhance your flooring’s appearance while fitting your style preferences perfectly.
I had a client who wanted a specific shade of gray that wasn’t readily available on the market. By working with a local supplier who offered custom staining services, we were able to create a beautiful floor that matched their vision flawlessly.
Working With Custom Orders
Here are some things to consider when placing custom orders:
- Lead Times: Custom orders often take longer than standard products—plan ahead!
- Samples: Always request samples before committing to ensure color accuracy.
- Returns: Understand the store’s return policy on custom orders—many may not accept returns once the order is placed.
Personal Experiences in Flooring Projects
Throughout my career as a flooring contractor, I’ve had countless experiences—some successful, others not so much—that have shaped my approach to each project.
A Memorable Project
One of my favorite projects involved transforming an old family home into a modern space while preserving its charm. We installed wide plank oak hardwood throughout the main floor, complemented by new baseboards painted white for contrast.
The biggest challenge was removing old carpet that had been glued down for years! With patience and the right tools, we managed to remove it without damaging the underlying subfloor.
Lessons Learned from Mistakes
Mistakes happen; they’re part of learning and growing in this industry. In one instance, I miscalculated the amount of flooring needed for a job due to unexpected room dimensions. We ended up needing to reorder materials halfway through installation—delaying the project by several days.
The lesson here? Always double-check measurements! Additionally, keep extra material on hand for future repairs or replacements; it saves time and headaches later on.
Popular Styles in Edmonton
Here are some popular styles I’ve noticed gaining traction among homeowners:
- Rustic: Wide planks with distressed finishes create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Modern: Sleek lines with dark stains or matte finishes appeal to contemporary tastes.
- Classic: Traditional oak or maple flooring continues to be timeless options.
Consider how each style complements your home’s existing decor when making decisions.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
Choosing where to buy hardwood flooring in Edmonton doesn’t have to be stressful if you approach it wisely. By exploring local stores, home improvement chains, specialty retailers, online options, and even liquidation centers, you can find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
Remember to factor in installation costs and maintenance considerations while making your decision. With the right planning and tools like FloorTally to assist with cost estimations, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your space with beautiful hardwood flooring.
If you have questions or need advice on specific products or stores, feel free to reach out! Sharing experiences and tips can make this journey smoother for all of us looking to create beautiful spaces in our homes.