Hardwood Flooring

Best Hardwood Species for Ontario Homes

Hardwood flooring adds warmth, elegance, and long-term value to any home. For Ontario homeowners, selecting the right hardwood species is crucial to withstand seasonal temperature changes, humidity, and daily wear. Here’s a guide to the best hardwood flooring options for Ontario homes.

1. Maple Hardwood Flooring

• Durability: Maple is a hard, dense wood, ideal for high-traffic areas.

• Aesthetic: Light tones provide a bright, contemporary look for Ontario homes.

• Climate Performance: Maple handles Ontario’s cold winters and humid summers better than softer woods.

2. Oak Hardwood Flooring

• Durability: Oak is one of the most durable hardwoods, resistant to dents and scratches.

• Aesthetic: Classic grain patterns complement both traditional and modern Ontario interiors.

• Versatility: Stains easily to match any décor style.

3. Hickory Hardwood Flooring

• Durability: Extremely hard and shock-resistant.

• Aesthetic: Strong grain patterns give a rustic, natural feel.

• Best Use: Ideal for open-concept Ontario homes or homes with pets.

4. Engineered Hardwood Flooring

• Construction: A hardwood veneer over a plywood base.

• Climate Advantage: Handles Ontario’s seasonal humidity swings better than solid hardwood.

• Variety: Available in many species, colors, and finishes.

Tips for Maintaining Hardwood in Ontario

• Keep indoor humidity levels consistent to prevent warping.

• Use protective mats near entrances to reduce salt and water damage in winter.

• Schedule annual refinishing for long-term durability.

Choosing the right hardwood species for your Ontario home ensures beauty, durability, and comfort. Maple, oak, and hickory are excellent options, while engineered hardwood provides an added layer of protection against climate changes. Invest wisely, and your floors will last for decades.

by Focus Flooring Centre

The Comeback Kid: Why Hardwood Flooring Is Still the Gold Standard in 2025

The Comeback Kid of Home Design

In a world obsessed with the new and next, hardwood flooring is the rare classic that keeps reinventing itself. From mid-century homes to modern condos, hardwood has remained the gold standard for warmth, beauty, and lasting value. But in 2025, this timeless favorite is getting a fresh glow-up — and homeowners are taking notice.

Why Hardwood Flooring Never Goes Out of Style

1. It ages like fine wine
Real hardwood develops character over time. Those subtle color shifts and gentle wear patterns? That’s called patina — and it’s one reason hardwood adds both charm and resale value to your home.

2. Engineered hardwood has changed the game
Modern engineered hardwood floors offer the same visual appeal as solid wood but with improved stability. They handle humidity, radiant heating, and basement installations better than ever before.

3. Sustainability is in style
Eco-conscious homeowners love that many flooring brands now source wood from responsibly managed forests. Plus, a well-maintained hardwood floor can last 100 years or more — the ultimate sustainable choice.

4. Refinish, don’t replace
Unlike vinyl or laminate, hardwood can be refinished multiple times, making it a smart long-term investment.

The 2025 Hardwood Trends to Watch

• Warm neutrals like honey oak and natural maple are replacing the cool gray tones of the 2010s.

• Wide planks are in — they make rooms feel bigger and more luxurious.

• Matte finishes and low-gloss sheens are the go-to for that organic, “lived-in luxury” vibe.

Final Thoughts

Trends may come and go, but hardwood flooring’s beauty and resilience have stood the test of time. Whether you’re renovating a heritage home or designing a minimalist modern space, hardwood flooring remains the comeback kid that never really left.

by Focus Flooring Centre

Hardwood Floors Stains: How to Pick the Perfect Tone for Your Space

When it comes to designing your dream home, few decisions have as much visual impact as the color of your hardwood floors. The right stain can dramatically transform a room — adding warmth, sophistication, or a sleek modern vibe. But with so many options available, how do you pick the perfect hardwood floor stain for your space?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• Popular stain color categories

• Factors to consider when choosing a stain

• Room-by-room suggestions

• Pro tips for testing before you commit

Whether you're refinishing existing hardwood or installing new flooring, these insights will help you choose the best stain color to complement your home.

Popular Hardwood Floors Stain Colors

1. Natural and Clear Finishes

• Look: Light, raw, and minimal

• Best for: Small rooms or Scandinavian-style interiors

• Works well on: White oak, maple

• Pairs with: White walls, soft neutrals, light furniture

2. Warm Honey and Golden Tones

• Look: Classic and cozy with a golden glow

• Best for: Traditional, farmhouse, or rustic styles

• Works well on: Red oak, pine

• Pairs with: Earth tones, beige, and antique decor

3. Medium Browns

• Look: Timeless and versatile with a rich undertone

• Best for: Open-concept or transitional spaces

• Works well on: Walnut, white oak

• Popular stains: Provincial, Early American, Special Walnut

4. Dark Espresso and Mocha Tones

• Look: Elegant and dramatic

• Best for: Large spaces or contemporary styles

• Caution: Can show dust, scratches, and pet hair

• Pairs with: Bright whites, bold color schemes

5. Gray and Greige Tones

• Look: Cool, modern, and urban

• Best for: Coastal homes, modern condos, or lofts

• Popular stains: Classic Gray, Weathered Oak

• Works best on: White oak for an even finish

6. Custom and Mixed Stains

• Look: Tailored and unique

• Best for: Homeowners seeking a one-of-a-kind look

• Note: Often involves blending multiple stains or water-popping techniques

How to Choose the Right Hardwood Floors Stain

Choosing a hardwood stain is about more than color preference — it’s about how the tone fits your space, lifestyle, and design goals. Consider the following:

1. Room Size and Natural Light

• Light stains help small rooms feel larger and brighter

• Dark stains add contrast but may make a space feel smaller

• Use mid-tones to balance bright light or high ceilings

2. Wall Colors and Interior Design Style

• Warm-toned stains pair well with creams, browns, and traditional décor

• Cool-toned stains match modern, industrial, or coastal styles

• Neutral stains allow flexibility if you change décor frequently

3. Wood Species

• Different woods absorb stains differently

• Red oak may pull red or pink tones

• White oak offers a more neutral base for gray or cool tones

• Maple and birch may absorb stain unevenly

4. Lifestyle and Maintenance

• Dark stains tend to highlight scratches, dust, and pet hair

• Lighter stains are generally easier to maintain

• Matte finishes are more forgiving than glossy ones

Always Test Before You Stain

Never rely solely on sample boards or online images. Always test stains on your actual wood floor. Here's why:

• Your wood’s grain, age, and type all affect stain absorption

• Apply three to four test swatches in an inconspicuous area

• View the samples in different lighting conditions throughout the day

• Let the stain fully dry to see its final appearance

Tip: Water-popping the wood (applying water before staining) can intensify the color but will also make the wood more absorbent — test accordingly.

Room-by-Room Hardwood Floors Stain Suggestions

Final Thoughts: Matching Your Floors to Your Life

Your hardwood floor stain sets the tone for your entire space. Choosing the right color depends on more than just current trends — it's about how the tone complements your home’s lighting, layout, existing design, and how you live day to day.

By understanding the stain options and testing carefully, you’ll be able to achieve a look that enhances both the style and function of your space for years to come.

Need Help Choosing the Perfect Stain?

Our flooring experts offer personalized consultations and in-home sampling to help you find the ideal stain for your hardwood floors. Contact us today to schedule a visit or stop by our showroom.

by Focus Flooring Centre

How to Keep Your Hardwood Flooring Looking Good During Hot Summers

Summer heat can be brutal—not just for you, but for your hardwood flooring as well. With rising temperatures and increased humidity, summer can cause hardwood floors to expand, fade, or even warp if not properly cared for. Luckily, a few proactive steps can keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful and lasting for years to come.

Here’s how to protect your hardwood flooring from the summer heat.

1. Control Indoor Humidity

Wood is a natural material that responds to environmental changes. In high humidity, hardwood absorbs moisture, causing it to swell. In dry heat, it can contract and create gaps between planks.

Tip:
Invest in a humidifier and dehumidifier system to keep indoor humidity between 35% and 55%. Smart thermostats with humidity controls are a great way to monitor conditions year-round.

2. Keep Floors Cool and Covered

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade and discolor hardwood flooring, especially in rooms with large windows.

Tip:
Use curtains, blinds, or UV-blocking window films during peak sunlight hours. Consider adding area rugs in high-sunlight zones to protect the wood while enhancing your home’s aesthetic.

3. Clean Regularly and Wisely

Summer often means more outdoor activity, which can track dust, dirt, and moisture into your home—all of which can damage hardwood over time.

Tip:
Sweep or dry mop daily to remove grit. Use a damp mop weekly (not wet!) with a hardwood-safe cleaner. Avoid steam mops or excess water—they can cause long-term damage to wood floors.

4. Use Protective Pads and Rugs

Summer gatherings and kids home from school often lead to increased foot traffic and movement of furniture.

Tip:
Place felt pads under furniture and add rugs in busy areas like hallways and entryways. This prevents scratches and keeps your hardwood flooring looking flawless.

5. Maintain Proper Ventilation

Air circulation helps regulate temperature and moisture levels, reducing stress on your hardwood.

Tip:
Use ceiling fans and open windows in the cooler parts of the day. If you use air conditioning, make sure vents are unobstructed and filters are changed regularly to maintain air quality and circulation.

6. Schedule Professional Maintenance

If your floors are looking dull or worn despite regular care, it might be time for a professional touch.

Tip:
Have a hardwood flooring expert inspect and, if needed, recoat or refinish your floors. Summer is a great time to schedule maintenance when the air is dry and curing times are faster.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your hardwood flooring in top shape during summer doesn’t require a complete lifestyle change—just a little attention and regular care. By managing heat, humidity, and sunlight, you can enjoy gorgeous floors all year long.

Looking for professional help? Contact our team at Focus Flooring for expert hardwood flooring advice, refinishing, or new installations tailored to your home.

by Focus Flooring Centre

Engineered vs. Solid Hardwood Flooring: Which One Is Right for You?

When it comes to choosing hardwood flooring, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is: engineered hardwood or solid hardwood? Both offer the timeless beauty of real wood, but they differ significantly in structure, performance, and cost.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences, pros and cons, and help you decide which option is best for your home.

What’s the Difference Between Solid and Engineered Hardwood?

• Solid hardwood flooring is made from a single piece of real wood, typically ¾” thick. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifespan.

• Engineered hardwood flooring consists of a thin top layer of real wood (called the veneer) bonded to multiple layers of plywood or HDF underneath. This construction makes it more stable, especially in areas with humidity or temperature fluctuations.

Pros and Cons of Solid Hardwood Flooring

Pros

• Long lifespan – Can be refinished multiple times (up to 4–6 times).

• Classic aesthetic – Deep grain and natural character.

• Increases home value – Seen as a premium flooring option.

• Custom stain options – Easily sanded and stained to match design trends.

Cons

• Sensitive to moisture – Prone to expansion and contraction in humid environments.

• Not recommended for basements or concrete slabs.

• More expensive – Higher material and installation costs.

• Installation limitations – Must be nailed or stapled down, not suitable for floating floors.

Pros and Cons of Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Pros

• More stable – Less prone to warping and cupping, ideal for kitchens, basements, and over radiant heating.

• Easier installation – Can be glued, stapled, or floated.

• More affordable – Typically costs less than solid hardwood.

• Wider plank options – More flexibility with sizes and finishes.

Cons

• Limited refinishing – Depending on veneer thickness, may only allow 1–2 sandings.

• Quality varies – Cheaper products may have thin wear layers.

• Not as long-lasting – Typically has a shorter lifespan than solid wood.

Where to Use Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood

Sustainability Note

Engineered hardwood uses less slow-growing hardwood than solid planks, making it a more eco-conscious option when sourced responsibly. Look for FSC-certified products if sustainability is a priority.

Which Hardwood Flooring Is Right for You?

Choose solid hardwood if:

• You want maximum longevity

• You’re installing above grade in a dry area

• You prefer traditional installation and design flexibility

Choose engineered hardwood if:

• You need stability in variable climates

• You’re renovating over concrete or radiant heating

• You want a budget-friendly option that still uses real wood

Need Help Choosing the Right Hardwood?

Whether you're remodeling a single room or building your dream home, we can help you find the perfect flooring for your lifestyle and budget.

Contact us at Focus Flooring in Peterborough today to have one of our experts guide you to the right option for your project.

by Focus Flooring Centre

How to Protect Your Hardwood Floors from Muddy Paws This Spring

Spring brings sunshine, blooming flowers... and muddy paws.
If you have pets, you know the struggle is real — muddy footprints can quickly ruin the beauty and lifespan of your hardwood floors.
Don't worry! With a few smart tips, you can enjoy the season without stressing about damage.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to protect your hardwood floors from muddy paws this spring — and keep them looking flawless year-round.

 1. Create a Pet Cleaning Station by the Door

Set up a small cleaning area near every entrance your pets use.
Stock it with:

• A towel or microfiber cloth

• A shallow water tray for rinsing paws

• A pet-safe mat for wiping feet

Pro Tip: Teach your dog to "wait" while you clean their paws — it’ll save you tons of time (and mopping).

2. Invest in Durable Entryway Rugs

Entryway rugs are your first line of defense.
Look for rugs that are:

• Waterproof or quick-drying

• Non-slip to avoid accidents

• Machine washable for easy cleanup

Best placement: Inside and outside every exterior door.

3. Use a Pet-Safe Floor Cleaner Regularly

Spring mud carries more than just dirt — it can hide salts, fertilizers, and chemicals that damage wood.
Clean floors frequently using a pH-neutral, pet-safe hardwood cleaner.
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia that can strip your floor’s finish.

4. Apply a Protective Sealant or Recoat

If your hardwood floors are due, spring is the perfect time to recoat.
A fresh layer of polyurethane protects against moisture, stains, and scratches.

Not sure if you need a new coat?
Try the water-drop test: If water soaks in quickly, it’s time!

5. Keep Pet Nails Trimmed

Long nails can dig into wood and cause scratches — especially when your dog runs excitedly inside after a walk.
Regular trimming (or professional grooming) keeps nails short, smooth, and floor-friendly.

Bonus: It’s healthier for your pet too!

Final Thoughts: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Protecting your hardwood floors from muddy paws this spring doesn’t have to be difficult.
With a smart cleaning routine, a few key supplies, and a little training, you can enjoy a clean, beautiful home — and happy pets.

by Focus Flooring Centre

The Ultimate Guide to Hardwood Flooring Care in Spring

As the winter frost melts away and spring takes over, homeowners should turn their attention to the maintenance of their hardwood flooring. Seasonal changes can have a significant impact on hardwood floors, and taking the right steps in spring can ensure their longevity and beauty. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about hardwood flooring as we transition into the warmer months.

1. Watch Out for Seasonal Humidity Changes with Hardwood Flooring

Spring brings increased humidity, which can cause hardwood flooring to expand. If you notice slight swelling or gaps closing, don’t panic—this is a normal reaction to seasonal changes. However, too much moisture can lead to warping, so consider using a dehumidifier to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels between 30-50%.

2. Deep Clean your Hardwood Flooring After Winter

Winter can leave behind dirt, salt, and moisture that may have seeped into your hardwood floors. Spring is the perfect time for a thorough cleaning:

• Use a soft-bristle broom or vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment to remove dirt and debris.
• Mop with a damp (not wet) microfiber cloth and a pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner.
• Avoid excessive water, as it can seep into the wood and cause damage over time.

3. Inspect for Any Winter Damage

Cold weather and heating systems can dry out hardwood flooring, potentially leading to cracks or separations. Take a close look at your floors for signs of damage and consider refinishing or sealing any problem areas to prevent further wear.

4. Protect Your Floors from Springtime Allergens

Spring means pollen, dust, and pet dander, which can settle into hardwood flooring crevices. To minimize allergens:

• Sweep and vacuum regularly.
• Use doormats at entryways to trap outdoor allergens before they reach your floors.
• Consider using an air purifier to reduce airborne particles that could settle onto hardwood surfaces.

5. Prepare for Increased Foot Traffic

With warmer weather, you may experience more foot traffic from guests, kids, and pets. To prevent scratches and dents:

• Place protective pads under furniture legs.
• Remove shoes at the door, especially high heels or cleats that can dent hardwood flooring.
• Consider adding stylish area rugs to high-traffic areas for added protection.

6. Refresh the Finish for a Seasonal Glow

If your hardwood flooring looks dull after winter, spring is a great time to rejuvenate its finish. Depending on the wear level, you can:

• Use a high-quality hardwood polish for a quick refresh.
• Recoat the floors with a new layer of finish if they show significant signs of wear.
• Schedule professional refinishing if deep scratches or dullness persist.

7. Open Windows with Caution

Fresh spring air is inviting, but open windows can also let in excess moisture and airborne debris that settle onto hardwood flooring. If you enjoy fresh air, balance it with proper ventilation and cleaning to prevent dust buildup and moisture-related issues.

8. Be Mindful of Pets and Spring Shedding

Pets tend to shed more as the seasons change. Loose fur and dirt can collect on hardwood floors, leading to scratches and buildup. Regularly groom your pets and clean floors with a soft microfiber mop to keep them in top shape.

Final Thoughts

Spring is a season of renewal, making it the perfect time to give your hardwood flooring the care it deserves. By managing humidity, cleaning thoroughly, and protecting against seasonal wear, you can keep your floors looking stunning year-round.

For more tips on hardwood flooring care or to explore top-quality hardwood options, visit our website or contact us today!

by Focus Flooring Centre