Engineered hardwood flooring has become one of the most popular flooring options for Canadian homeowners. Known for its elegance, durability, and adaptability to different climates, engineered hardwood offers the timeless look of solid hardwood while providing greater resistance to moisture and temperature changes. Whether you’re upgrading your home, renovating a condo, or designing a new build, understanding how engineered hardwood installation works is essential for achieving a flawless finish that lasts for years.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about engineered hardwood installation in Canada—covering its benefits, installation methods, preparation, step-by-step process, costs, and professional tips for success.
Why Choose Engineered Hardwood in Canada?
Canada’s varied climate—ranging from brutal winters to hot and humid summers—may complicate flooring decisions. Solid hardwood expands and contracts with changes in temperature, usually resulting in gaps or warping. Engineered hardwood is specially engineered to resist these issues.
Here’s why homeowners in Canada adore it:
- Climate Durability: Multi-layer design gives it stability, minimizing expansion and contraction.
- Natural Hardwood Appearance: The surface layer is actual wood, allowing you to achieve the same natural look as solid hardwood.
- Extensive Choice of Styles: Comes in various wood types, finishes, colors, and textures.
- Installation Flexibility: Can be installed on top of concrete, radiant heat systems, and under grade (basements).
- Environmentally Friendly Choices: Requires less hardwood overall, thus a greener option.
- Value Increase in Property: Provides long-term looks and resale value.
Types of Engineered Hardwood Installation Techniques
There are a number of ways to install engineered hardwood flooring, and the most appropriate method will be determined by your subfloor, budget, and project needs. The primary methods of installation are:
Floating Installation
- Boards are glued or clicked together but not nailed to the subfloor.
- Best for condos, basements, and speedy remodels.
- May be installed over underlayment for sound mitigation.
- Glue-Down Installation
- Planks of flooring are glued directly to the subfloor.
- Offers stability and minimizes hollow noises.
- Often installed on concrete subfloors.
- Nail or Staple Down Installation
- Boards are nailed or stapled onto a wood subfloor.
- Offers a permanent, traditional installation.
- Recommended for plywood subfloors level with or above grade.
- Combination Method
- Occasionally a combination of glue and nails is employed for added strength.
Preparing for Engineered Hardwood Installation
Successful flooring installation relies on proper preparation. Here’s where to begin:
- Acclimatize the Flooring
- Leave engineered hardwood planks in the installation room for 48–72 hours.
- Permits material to come to room temperature and humidity.
- Inspect Subfloor Conditions
- Subfloor should be clean, dry, and level to 3mm over 10 feet.
- Moisture testing is essential, particularly in Canadian basements.
- Collect Tools and Materials
Tape measure, spacers, moisture meter, saws, adhesive, underlayment, hammer, and tapping block.
Remove Old Flooring
- Carpet, vinyl, or laminate should be removed first.
- Plan the Layout
- Choose direction (often parallel to longest wall).
- Stagger seams for natural appearance.
Step-by-Step Engineered Hardwood Installation
The following is a general guide for floating installation, the most popular in Canada:
Step 1: Install Underlayment
Install foam or cork underlayment to offer cushioning, soundproofing, and protection from moisture.
Step 2: Set Expansion Gaps
Leave a 1/2-inch space around fixed objects and walls using spacers for natural movement.
Step 3: Lay the First Row
Begin in the left corner with the groove side against the wall. Make sure the row is straight.
Step 4: Join the Boards
Join boards tightly using the click-lock system or adhesive. Tap lightly with a tapping block if needed.
Step 5: Follow Row by Row
Stagger seams no less than 6 inches apart for strength and appearance.
Step 6: Cut to Fit
Trim the final board in each row to fit. Start the next row with the remainder piece for efficiency.
Step 7: Install the Last Row
You might need to cut boards along their length. Use a pull bar to tighten them into place.
Step 8: Add Finishing Touches
Take away spacers, put in baseboards or quarter-round mouldings, and clean the floor clean.
Special Considerations for Canadian Homes
Due to Canada’s climate, homeowners should be aware of the following:
- Humidity Control: Keep indoor humidity at 35–55% to avoid gapping or cupping.
- Radiant Heat Systems: Have your engineered hardwood be rated for radiant heating.
- Basements: Never install below grade without a vapor barrier.
- Seasonal Expansion: Never omit expansion gaps; they are necessary in changeable climates.
Cost of Engineered Hardwood Installation in Canada
- Engineered hardwood flooring costs differ based on material, labor, and installation type.
- Material Costs: $4–$12 per sq. ft. (depending upon wood species and finish).
- Installation Costs: $2–$6 per sq. ft. for floating; $3–$8 for glue-down or nail-down.
Additional Costs:
- Underlayment: $0.50–$1 per sq. ft.
- Removal of existing flooring: $1–$2 per sq. ft.
- Baseboard/trim installation: Additional cost.
- For a home of 1,000 sq. ft., the average cost is usually between $7,000 and $15,000.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Most Canadian homeowners try DIY installation, particularly with floating floors. Professional installation would still yield better outcomes, though.
DIY Pros:
- Labor cost savings.
- Flexible timings.
- Excellent learning opportunity.
DIY Cons:
- Risk of improper installation.
- Time-consuming for first-time installers.
- Warranty might be voided if installed by non-professionals.
Professional Installation Pros:
- Knowledgeable in subfloors and moisture testing.
- Efficient and faster installation.
- Guaranteed workmanship.
- For extensive projects, condos, or glue-down installations, professional service is highly advisable.
Maintenance Tips After Installation
To maintain your engineered hardwood flooring for years like it was new:
- Regularly sweep or vacuum off dirt and grit.
- Clean with a damp (not wet) mop and hardwood-specific cleaners.
- Use mats at entrances to minimize dirt and moisture.
- Use felt pads under furniture to avoid scratches.
- Avoid too much water and steam cleaners.
- Refinish top layer if scratches pile up (depending on thickness).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is engineered hardwood installable in basements?
Yes, as opposed to solid hardwood, engineered hardwood can be installed below grade with a vapor barrier.
Q2: How long does the installation process take?
For 1,000 sq. ft. space, floating installation will take 2–3 days, glue-down longer.
Q3: Is engineered hardwood waterproof?
No, it’s water-resistant, not waterproof. Spills must be wiped immediately.
Q4: Can it be refinished?
Yes, depending upon the wear layer thickness (generally 1–4 times).
Q5: What installation method is most ideal for condos?
Floating installation with soundproof underlayment is commonly advised for condos.
Conclusion
Engineered hardwood flooring provides Canadian residents with a fashionable, long-lasting, and climate-neutral choice that adds value to their property while promoting comfort. With careful planning, preparation, and installation, you can have the warmth and beauty of hardwood without risking climate damage. Regardless of whether you opt for DIY installation or if you hire someone, engineered hardwood remains an intelligent long-term investment for any Canadian home.
By understanding the methods, costs, and best practices outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the right decisions and achieve a flawless engineered hardwood installation that stands the test of time.