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Hardwood vs Laminate Flooring: Which is Best for You?

Whether you are replacing existing flooring or on the hunt for the perfect floors in a new home, the choices can seem overwhelming. One of the most common questions revolves around the difference between hardwood or laminate flooring. Deciding which one is right for you can be a bit of a process, but looking at all the options available is worth it.

The Importance of Practicality

Practicality should be your priority when choosing your floors. Flooring should last in your home anywhere between 10-30+ years. Although looks are important, you need to make sure they’ll last and maintain their good looks without time-consuming cleaning and treatments.

When thinking about practicality, consider where in your home your new floors are going. Is it a cold room that needs a warm surface? Or a room that tends to get a lot of moisture? Do you need floors that can withstand all the wear and tear of your family and pets or a soft floor for your walk-in closet?

Hardwood vs. Laminate

Considering looks, feel and practicality, there are two great flooring options: hardwood and laminate. Hardwood is made of real wood, making it re-sandable and warm, while laminate is a durable, affordable option with real wood looks.

Kitchen with Provision laminate floors in Tipton Oak

What is hardwood flooring?

There’s no denying that hardwood flooring is beautiful. The natural colours and textures add warmth and value to any home. It will last a lifetime and you can re-sand TORLYS SuperSolid hardwood up to 4 times.

Plus, hardwood can handle whatever your family throws its way. TORLYS hardwood floors are durable and long-lasting, exactly what you’re looking for in a high-quality hardwood floor.

Hardwood floors are a classic flooring luxury. They have natural colours and textures, adding warmth and beauty to your home. They last a lifetime, only needing to be swept or lightly vacuumed weekly, with the option to re-sand and refinish with a new stain. Because of all these benefits, having hardwood floors also increases your home’s value since they’re the most wanted flooring option.

Here are some quick pros and cons of hardwood floors:

Pros

  • Many style options
  • Increased home value
  • Easy maintenance day-to-day maintenance
  • Last a lifetime

Cons

  • Cost
  • Tend to need to be refinished eventually
  • Susceptible to scratches, dents, and water damage

TORLYS Hardwood Options

TORLYS SuperSolid 5, 6, and 7  are great, hardwearing floors made out of a solid, constructed hardwood structure that is re-sandable up to four times. A 100% hardwood construction with beautiful, natural textures provides warmth and value to your home. The high-quality hardwood is long-lasting, beautiful exactly what you’re looking for.

TORLYS SuperSolid floors have an E-Lock core that helps prevent gapping, cupping, and splitting and have a smart-cut hardwood core and KLUMP top coat for long-lasting durability.

SuperSolid 7 by TORLYS in Beach Grove Oak

What is laminate flooring?

You may think of laminate as the wood-looking flooring that is cheaper than hardwood. It was notorious for developing waves and peaks over time and left you with an artificial look and feel. But that’s the laminate flooring of days gone by.

Today, high-quality laminate floors outperform hardwood in a lot of areas. Most laminate flooring looks like wood but offers the durability of a non-wood product, making it a good flooring options for any room in your home, including wet areas.

The featured laminate flooring choices below are ideal for larger areas as they can now be installed transition free up to 50’ x 50’. Plus, the micro bevel on 4-sides creates a look that replicates authentic hardwood, so you’ll be the only one that knows they’re not real.

Take a look at these pros and cons of laminate floors for quick insight:

Pros

  • Durable construction
  • Waterproof and water-resistant options available
  • Real wood or stone looks
  • Low-maintenance
  • Affordable
  • TORLYS laminate floors can be replaced plank by plank with the TORLYS BulldogTM Easy Plank Replacer

Cons

  • Can’t be refinished, only replaced
  • Durable construction
  • Can feel fake
  • Don’t add resale value

TORLYS Laminate Options

TORLYS Smart Laminate floors have an all-over realistic texture that resembles the natural beauty of real wood. Available in different colours and sizes, the floors are a perfect fit for residential and commercial spaces as they are incredibly durable with an AC5 rated wear layer.


Find your nearest TORLYS dealer and talk to them about whether hardwood or laminate is right for your home. They’ll walk you through your options and recommend the right flooring based on your lifestyle and the overall look you want to create.

Top 5 Reasons You Need Waterproof Flooring in Your Home

Life is messy, but that’s what makes it fun. Your home is a place where you can relax, play and live. It’s not where you have to worry about scratches, dings, and messes. You should be able to enjoy a glass of wine in the living room without worrying about your flooring if it spills. Homes are meant to be lived in, but liquids can be a real problem.

Whether you have kids or pets or you’re just a bit clumsy from time to time, it’s next to impossible to keep water off your floors. From spills to accidents to leaks, the damage can range from something that can be wiped up with a paper towel to a more stressful situation. But just because you’re worried about water, doesn’t mean you should sacrifice having the beauty and drama that wood flooring brings to your home.

With TORLYS Envique laminate flooring, you can have stunning floors that stand up to whatever life throws their way. There are three puzzle pieces that come together to create a waterproof flooring solution for your home:

  1. Uniclic® Locking System: Make cleaning up spills easier and keep liquid out of your floor’s joints with this unique flooring system. Uniclic® is the tightest, strongest joint on the market.
  2. GenuEdge™ Technology: Unsightly edges are a thing of the past, thanks to this technology. The colour of your floors rolls over the edge and into the bevel. GenuEdge™ also keeps water out of the joint and core, protecting your floors further.
  3. HydroSeal: Keep water out of the core of your floor with this water-repellent edge coating.

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Basements are prone to moisture

There’s no avoiding it, basements are prone to excess moisture. They can be a very damp environment, making them vulnerable to water damage. This is why for years homeowners have opted for carpet in their basements. But that’s only because there was never a waterproof flooring option. With TORLYS Envique laminate, the process of making your basement flooring waterproof starts with manufacturing and continues through to the installation method.

Kitchens are spill central

Let’s face it, kitchens get messy. But you shouldn’t have to sacrifice a beautiful floor just because you’re worried about it getting ruined. With TORLYS Envique laminate flooring, your kitchen floor is safe from whatever may fall its way.

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Laundry can be a little more fun

Chances are your laundry room flooring isn’t something you take a lot of pride in. You might have your washer and dryer tucked away in the basement or hidden behind closed doors. But what if your laundry room could be as beautiful as the rest of your home? No matter what part of your house you wash, dry and fold in, TORLYS Envique laminate flooring can bring a touch of beauty to any space.

Bathroom with TORLYS EverTile Premier vinyl flooring in Bridgewater

Bathrooms get wet… a lot

Have you ever thought about having the beauty and drama of wood flow from the rest of your home right into your bathroom? Perhaps not, but that’s likely because it’s never been an option. Bathrooms are synonymous with moisture. From humidity resistant paint to caulking to keep water where it’s supposed to be, bathrooms are designed to get wet. With TORLYS Envique laminate, your bathroom floor can have the look of wood, while still being completely waterproof. The full waterproof effect is due to the flexible and waterproof seal on the edges that prevents water from getting under the floor.

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They call it a mudroom for a reason

From rain to slush to snow, your mudroom or entryway has to be able to handle whatever mother nature throws at it. It’s also likely the first space your guest sees when they enter your home. But just because it’s home to messy shoes and boots and umbrellas, doesn’t mean it can’t look stunning. Now you can enjoy the look of wood throughout your entire home, including your entryway. And with TORLYS Envique laminate, you can cover up to 50’ x 50’ without transitions, even in doorways!

TORLYS Envique laminate floors in Woodland Oak

Not your average floor

Traditional laminate floors don’t handle moisture well. When the laminate gets wet the high-density fibers that make up the core absorb the water and cause the planks to swell. Unfortunately, this swelling doesn’t go away when the floor dries. When a laminate floor gets wet and swells, your only option is to replace it. Depending on the severity of the damage it may just be a simple plank replacement. But in other situations, the entire floor may need to be replaced.

TORLYS Envique laminate is changing the laminate landscape, giving you more flooring options than ever before for every room in your home. Each luxurious, ultra-realistic 12mm plank features authentic looks with a surface colour design that rolls over the edges.

Now you can have it all. No more choosing between form and function. Envique laminate marries the beauty of wood with waterproof flooring solutions, so you can enjoy the warmth and luxury of wood throughout each room in your home.

Kitchen Flooring Guide – How to Choose Your Perfect Floor

From family breakfasts to cocktails to holiday dinners, everyone seems to congregate in the kitchen. So it only makes sense that the flooring you choose for your kitchen could be one of the most important decisions you make in your home.

It will have to handle everything from spills to a dropped pan of your famous lasagna, so it needs to be durable. The kitchen also tends to be a gathering place for everything from Sunday morning pancakes to dinner parties. So, you’ll want it to be a space you love and are proud to show off.

And when it comes to selecting your new kitchen floors the choices can seem endless. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to help you find the ideal kitchen flooring for your home.

What to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Flooring

The kitchen floor sets the stage for the style and function of your kitchen. When deciding on the type of floor to choose, consider things such as comfort, ease of cleaning, lifestyle and of course, your sense of style.

Cooking

Do you spend hours in your kitchen prepping meals and trying out new recipes? Then you’ll want something that is soft and warm so hours of standing and letting your inner chef out won’t wreak havoc on your back.

Cleaning

Does the thought of daily mopping and sweeping have you feeling exhausted before you even pick up a broom? Select a floor that is easy to clean, stain resistant and won’t show every little crumb.

Activity

Do you have kids and pets that seem to spend most of their time and energy under your feet in the kitchen? You’ll definitely want something durable that can stand up to messes, toys and of course, daily games of tag. Did we mention you’ll probably want something non-slip too?

Style

And last, but certainly not least, think about your sense of style. Just because your kitchen needs to be functional, doesn’t mean it can’t look stunning.

Are you on the hunt for something sleek and modern? Maybe you’re more the sophisticated and understated type. Or perhaps your taste skews rustic with some character?

From vinyl to cork to laminate, TORLYS has the types of flooring, colours, and styles to transform your kitchen floor into the space you’ve been dreaming of.

EverWood Designer in Seabright

EverWood Designer

An excellent choice for kitchen flooring, EverWood Designer is warm to the touch and comfortable underfoot. It’s resistant to water, mold, and mildew so it’s great for under appliances and won’t be phased by water drips from doing the dishes in the sink.

Its 0.5mm wear layer makes it extremely durable so it will maintain its great looks no matter how busy your kitchen is. EverWood Designer luxury vinyl plank is also dent resistant, quiet (so late night fridge snacking can stay your little secret), and very easy to maintain.

This collection has the longest and widest planks along with trendy styles and realistic textures. EverWood Designer has 4-sided finished bevels and boasts a contemporary colour palette. Those with modern taste will find it easy to incorporate into their kitchen.

Tip: While vinyl might seem easy to install yourself, a professional installer will make sure you fully reap the waterproof benefits of your EverWood floors.

EverTile Premier in Roxbury

EverTile Premier

Nothing screams kitchen flooring quite like tile. But traditional tiles can be cold, must be installed on a perfectly level surface and can’t always withstand the crashes and bangs that kitchens are prone to.

With EverTile Premier luxury vinyl tiles, you get the look of tile with a durable surface and much more practical choice for kitchens. It’s also resistant to water, mold, and mildew so spills or a leaky dishwasher won’t bother it one bit.

Our EverTile Premier floors have an attached CorkPlus™ underlay, which makes them softer underfoot than ceramic tiles. They also come equipped with Microban® antimicrobial protection, so you don’t need to worry about germs growing in and under your floors.

It’s quiet and warm underfoot so you can enjoy your kitchen without having to wear slippers all the time. EverTile Premier is also dent resistant, hypoallergenic and amazingly easy to maintain and keep clean. These tiles are on-trend and come in a range of colours and textures so there is most definitely a tile for your style.

Thinking about getting a little creative? Here are some kitchen flooring ideas from Pinterest.

TORLYS Cork Florence Premier in Vintage Sand Stone

Cork Florence Premier

Cork is becoming an increasingly popular choice for kitchen floors. It’s not only a stunning, but you can feel good about your purchase too. Cork is recognized worldwide as a floor with unsurpassed environmental advantages.

TORLYS Cork Florence Premier is FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) certified, ensuring your floor meets strict environmental standards. Cork is naturally antibacterial and the CorkPlus™ attached underlay with Microban® antimicrobial product protection take this choice to a whole other level.

It’s also suited for installation below grade, over radiant heated subfloors, over concrete and even over some existing floors. This is ideal for a speedy renovation or a kitchen in a basement suite.

Cork floors have long been cherished for their striking looks, natural warmth, and eco-friendly attributes. But unlike traditional cork floors, Cork Florence Premier from TORLYS has our very own Smart Finish for increased durability.

Tip: Add a bit extra to your flooring order so you have replacements should a tile become damaged down the road.

TORLYS Envique laminate in Woodland Oak

Envique Laminate

Do you want the warmth and sleek look of hardwood floors in the kitchen but you’re not sure traditional hardwood is up to the job? Our Envique laminate floors will give you the look of hardwood but will wear like laminate.

This waterproof collection features 24-hour spill protection, making it the perfect floor for a messy kitchen. You won’t have to worry about spilt milk when you install TORLYS Envique laminate floors! Later in 2018, the waterproof features of Envique will expand to other laminate collections. This benefit is not going away any time soon!

Our Envique laminate floors can be installed transition-free up to 50′ x 50′. This means that you can install it seamlessly from your kitchen through to your dining room, making it perfect for an open concept main floor.

Tip: For extra cushioning when standing, install the recommended underlay to ensure durability and comfort.

There is no “best flooring” for a kitchen, but there are certainly options that are better than others. At the end of the day, the choice you make for your kitchen floor should combine form and function. With the number of quality kitchen flooring options available, you should never have to sacrifice looks for durability and practicality.

Find your nearest TORLYS dealer and talk to them about your kitchen flooring needs. They’ll be able to help you pick the right material and look for a kitchen that will look amazing today and for the years to come.

Bring Luxury Into Your Home With These Trending Colours

2018 is here and with it comes new home design trends, especially when it comes to colour. Whether you’re looking to revamp your entire home, spice up a single room or simply add a feature wall, this year’s trending colours are bold and exciting.

The top trends for 2018 will bring a shift from neutral colour palettes to deep, rich colours. We’ll see striking jewel tones and deep metallics that bring and sense of luxury and elegance to any room.

With 2017 done and gone, it seemed that everyone was a little extra excited for 2018. From technology to beauty to lifestyle, this year is sure to be filled with innovation and interior decor is no exception. Themes such as minimalism, self-care and even a little bit of a 70’s and 80’s revival will influence our homes and lives in the months to come.

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Heating up with Caliente

The Benjamin Moore colour of the year is strong, radiant and full of energy. Caliente isn’t for the faint of heart, but those bold enough to add this splash of colour to their home won’t be disappointed. You won’t be able to resist the bold strokes of this colour.

Many will find this rich crimson red intimidating but it will add spice (and a little heat) to any room. It can make a powerful first impression on a front door or add life to a book-lined library. While it might be too much for an entire room, a bright feature wall has the ability to completely transform a space.

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No shrinking Ultra Violet

Each year, designers from all backgrounds anxiously await the release of Pantone’s colour of the year, and 2018 definitely didn’t disappoint. A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.

Enigmatic purple is often associated with mindfulness practices, which offer a higher ground to those seeking refuge from today’s over-stimulated world making it an excellent choice for meditation spaces, or to create a relaxing spa-like atmosphere in the bathroom. Ultra Violet is nuanced and full of emotion making it the perfect colour for a room that inspires and invigorates.

The Executive Director of the Pantone Colour Institute, Leatrice Eiseman, sees Ultra Violet as lighting “the way to what is yet to come.” This includes “exploring new technologies and the greater galaxy, to artistic expression and spiritual reflection.”

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Dive in with Oceanside

A collision of rich blue with jewel-toned green, a colour that is both accessible and elusive, Sherwin Williams colour of the year is Oceanside. Blue is the most beloved colour worldwide and this multi-dimensional, marine-inspired colour proves why.

Oceanside creates a welcoming statement that is great for boosting creative thinking and clarity of thought in a home office. A complex, deep colour that offers a sense of the familiar with a hint of the unknown, Oceanside bridges together a harmonious balance of blues and greens that can be found in what’s old and new.

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Deep Onyx Proves Less is More

Glidden Paints isn’t holding back for 2018 crowning Deep Onyx as its colour of the year. Black is easier to use than you might think as it encourages a “less is more” approach to décor. Just like a little black dress, Deep Onyx has a place in every home.

Black is often overlooked as a neutral colour, but it works well on an accent wall or as an alternative to white paint on doors, trim and cabinets. And don’t even get us started on how easy it is to keep looking clean. Try Deep Onyx with basics like primary reds and blues, white, and earthy browns and greens.

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Put the Pedal to the Metal

Move over copper, it’s time for bronze to shine. For 2018, there’s nothing quite as striking and versatile as metallics. From wallpapers, fabrics, furniture and decorative details, gold, brass, silver, bronze, and rose gold are here to stay. They also happen to complement the bold colour tones above perfectly.

Use metallics sparingly as a compliment to objects with little to no sheen. Metallics are also great for mixing and matching. Choose a metal you love to be the most prominent in your space, then select one or two metal accents to complete the look.

TORLYS Largo laminate floors in Shaker Oak

Bold Colours Call for Neutral Floors

Your walls aren’t the only thing that these bold colour trends affect. While there really are no wrong colour combinations when it comes to wood floors and bold walls, there are textures and colours and complement one another best.

A saturated colour like a bold red such as Caliente or rich teal blue like Oceanside looks best when paired with natural wood tones. Because of this, we’re predicting the return of true blonde wood stains. Pair your new Caliente or Oceanside walls with our SuperSolid 7 Hardwood in Wildwood Oak or CorkWood Designer in Morningside Oak to bring this look to life.

Metallics really pop when combined with sophisticated grey stains. Coming later this year is EverWood Premier in Shelbourne, a new shade that will look perfect with metallic accents. They also look perfect with deep jewel tones on the wall and a floor like our Largo laminate in Shaker Oak!

If you’re brave enough to try Deep Onyx, lighter wood tones create a dramatic and sophisticated contrast. We think that TORLYS Elka 12mm laminate floors in Toasted Oak would look perfect with Deep Onyx on your walls.

One step at a time

Many (if not all) of these trending colours might seem intimidating, but as with most decorating trends, moderation is key. Try starting with a feature wall or accent pieces. We also suggest you try it before you buy it. Most paint suppliers have online apps that allow you to upload a photo of your room and apply a colour. This allows you to see the colour in your space before you even purchase it.

Would you like to see TORLYS floors in your home before purchasing? Use our flooring visualizer tool to get a sense of what your home will look like with new floors in it.


Find your nearest TORLYS dealer and talk to them your overall design vision. They’ll be able to help you pick the right flooring material and help ensure your floors, accents, and walls all work together.

How to Install Laminate Flooring in Your Home

Are you getting ready to install new laminate floors in your home? Is it feeling a bit overwhelming trying to figure out the best way to tackle the job?

Installing your own laminate floors can seem like a daunting project. If you lack the ‘handy’ gene and the idea of manual labor has you breaking out in hives, you’ll likely want to leave this project to a professional. However, if you’ve successfully completed other home renovations and are up for a new challenge, laminate flooring installation is a great skill to add to your repertoire.

Start by Selecting the Right Materials

TORLYS laminate flooring is not only stunning but exceptionally strong. Because it’s a hardwearing surface, you’ll get to spend less time worrying about if it can handle what life throws at it, and more time admiring your handy-work. You can choose from 6 designer collections that were created for every style and lifestyle. Plus, with our Uniclic® laminate floors, you’ll be able to walk on your floors as soon as you’re done.

If you’re looking for a transition free option, TORLYS has a variety of products that will cover a space that is 50’ x 50’ without having to worry about transitions. Enjoy a seamless appearance from room to room with no “speed bumps” in the doorways.

Over 90% of residential applications can be installed transition-free, so your home is likely to be clear of speed bumps. Be sure to check out the detailed instructions included with your TORLYS laminate floors when completing a transition-free installation.

Install Laminate Flooring With These Tips

Measure Twice, Shop Once

Nothing will drag out the time it takes you to finish laying laminate flooring like multiple trips to the store to buy more planks. Start by calculating the total area of the room or rooms and add 5% for waste.

Prep the Planks

Think of it as acclimating your new floors. 24 hours prior to installation, place the closed packages in the middle of the room.

Ready the Room

Out with the old, in with the new! Remove existing carpet, baseboards, quarter-rounds and thresholds. This is also a great time to ensure all doors can still open and close after installing the floor (minimum 3/8” – 1cm clearance). Don’t forget to include your underlay.

Sub-Floors Subpar?

Now that you’ve removed the existing floor covering, it’s a great time to give your sub-floor a little TLC. Repair any defects in the sub-floor and make sure it’s clean, firm, flat, dry (less than 3% moisture on concrete, 10% or less on plywood) and smooth.

If there are any loose parts or you have a creaking floor, you should secure the sub-floor with nails or screws and, if necessary, apply a levelling compound.

Decide On a Direction

When you are installing new laminate floors in a room, you should install them parallel to window light. This will make the room look larger and make the floors look natural in your home.

If you are installing the same laminate flooring throughout your entire home, start at your front door. Your floors should run perpendicular to your front door, and in the same direction through your home. This will make your entryway look longer, and create a cohesive look in your home.

If you switch directions of flooring installation in each room, it will make your home look broken up and unintentional.

Don’t Forget the Underlay

Depending on the type of subfloor you’re working with, you’ll likely need underlay. TORLYS offers a variety of underlayment options that will provide a sound deadening barrier for your floor and will also help with insulation. If you live in a condominium or apartment, check with your condo board or management company as they may have specification requirements in regards to sound ratings for your underlayment choice.


Find your nearest TORLYS dealer and talk to them about your laminate project. They’ll be able to help you pick the right flooring and help you decide if this is the kind of project you can DIY, or if you require professional installation.

Tackling a laminate flooring project that involves stairs? Check back for an upcoming article on installing laminate on stairs.

6 Best Basement Flooring Ideas for Your Home

For many people, the word basement brings to mind a cold, damp, dark space. Perhaps it’s just a room filled with boxes or that part of your home that houses your hot water tank and fuse box. Some might even think of it as creepy. But we’re not here to talk about the basement from your childhood. Today, basements are full of potential. Think of it as a blank canvas, waiting to become a theatre room, play space or even additional bedrooms. Choosing a basement flooring and finishing your basement not only expands your living space but also increases the value of your home.

One of the most important decisions when finishing a basement is the flooring. Whether you’re installing a basement subfloor or your new floor will be installed directly over the basement concrete floor, you want to select a product that not only looks great but is designed for an area that is prone to moisture.

Here are 6 of the best basement flooring options to make your space cozy, modern and a place you’ll love spending time in.

Basement Flooring Options for Your Home

1. CorkWood Designer

CorkWood Designer is a fantastic choice for basements thanks to its durability and the added comfort it provides in a chilly basement. It comes in extra-long, wide planks in an array of beautiful wood patterns, on-trend colours with a variety of realistic textures, so there’s sure to be an option that fits your basement vision. It also boasts a 3mm top layer and polyurethane finish equivalent to top-rated AC4 laminate. The beveled edges are sealed for increased water resistance and it’s an FSC® certified option, so it’s good for the environment too.

2. Cork Florence Designer

Cork Florence Designer flooring from TORLYS is an excellent insulating product for cold basements and a modern take on traditional cork flooring. The wide planks are the longest available in the cork collection. They are available in a variety of beautiful natural colours and styles. Each plank is richly textured, designed with a 4-sided beveled edge and complete with the TORLYS smart finish giving it the durability you want in a basement. It’s also an FSC® certified option.

3. EverWood Designer

An excellent choice for vinyl basement flooring, EverWood Designer is warm to the touch and comfortable underfoot. This series has the longest and widest planks along with trendy styles and realistic textures. EverWood Designer has 4-sided finished bevels that match easily with a contemporary colour palette. Its 0.5mm wear layer and waterproof qualities also makes this great a practical option if Fido is prone to accidents on the floor.

4. EverTile Elite

Ceramic and slate tiles can be a beautiful and practical solution for basement floors. Traditional tiles can be cold, but with EverTile Elite you get a uniquely warm and durable surface. These tiles are on-trend and come in a range of colours and textures with 4-sided bevels and a 0.5mm wear layer. Plus, they can stand up to pets*, kids, and spills. Looking for unfinished basement ideas? Check out these Pinterest inspirations.

* pet-friendly features of EverWood and EverTile apply only to pet urine, not to pet scratches.

5. Smart Hardwood

Hardwood in the basement? You bet! Smart Hardwood from TORLYS is not only beautiful, it’s gap, cup and dent resistant. Choose from a variety of rustic, crafted textures with a matte or medium gloss finish to emphasize the natural grains. This hardwood has a 4-sided bevel and is full of character, just like your new basement.

6. Don’t Forget Underlay

Even though you don’t see the underlay, it plays an important role in the durability and comfort of your new basement floor. Many TORLYS underlay options offer antimicrobial technology and a moisture barrier to protect against subfloor moisture. This is ideal in basements due to the amount of moisture that is likely present. The Safe & Sound underlay for TORLYS is great for minimizing subfloor imperfections and has unique acoustic properties. There is also the CorkPlus™ with Microban® product which is great for insulation and even offers antimicrobial protection.

Find your nearest TORLYS dealer and chat with them about your basement flooring needs. They’ll be able to recommend the right flooring and underlay for your basement. Then, you’ll be on your way to spending more time in your comfortable basement.

Planning a kitchen renovation next? Stay tuned for our upcoming post on Kitchen flooring options.

Laminate Flooring is Back in Style and Better Than Ever

Laminate flooring has come a long way since the 1970s. While it was always affordable—and still is today—its looks left a lot to be desired. However, design advances have transformed laminate into one of the most popular flooring choices on the market. Homeowners are now turning to the realistic good looks of laminate to create absolutely stunning spaces.

How Laminate Flooring Has Changed

Technological innovations in the past few years have made laminate flooring the next big trend in flooring. It has gone from “second choice” to “sought after” thanks to advances in design and functionality. The look of laminate flooring is more realistic than ever. In fact, it’ hard to tell the difference between high-quality laminate and solid hardwood just by looking at it. Plus, laminate not only mimics hardwood, it can also take on the look of stone tiles.

The realism of the design is not only limited to its looks. Laminate’s surface can range from simple to intricate. Brushed or handscraped textures are possible, as are glossy and matte finishes. Planks have evolved too. You can now select longer and wider planks. If you choose a more exotic looking floor with lots of detail, wider planks will highlight its unique features. For wood grains that are subtle, choose narrower boards.

Hardwood vs. Laminate

Looks are no longer a differentiating factor in the hardwood/laminate debate, but what about performance? In most areas, laminate outperforms hardwood. It’s more durable—withstanding heavy traffic and it’s also easier to clean and maintain.

It isn’t a surprise that laminate costs less than hardwood. You can stretch a laminate budget further than hardwood, meaning you can get more exotic looks and still be comfortable with the cost.

Versatility

Even if a plank gets damaged, it’s easily repaired, that is if it’s a TORLYS smart floor. Thanks to the TORLYS Bulldog™ Easy Plank Replacer, you can remove individual planks and replace them without any mess or fuss. That’s true of any TORLYS smart floor.

Cleaning up after a spill is relatively easy. The key to long-lasting floors is to clean up messes, especially liquid spills, immediately. Laminate floors can also build up static, but regular sweeping or vacuuming will prevent unnecessary shocks.

Design & Options

TORLYS has made breathtaking breakthroughs in laminate flooring. These industry-leading innovations range from design and application to installation. TORLYS is always ahead of trend when it comes to patterns and hues. This year’s star: Chevron. This nostalgic pattern is bold and makes an immediate impact in a space. When used correctly, it can even create a wavy and calm feeling. If you want to create a feature wall in your home, you can even install our chevron floors on the wall!

The installation of TORLYS flooring on walls requires the use of adhesive and nails. We recommend using baseboards and crown moulding to cover the floor and ceiling edges of the floor. To complete the look, you can use a wood trim painted in an accent colour to frame the sides. If you’re installing the wall/floor yourself, begin by lying the planks on the floor first.

Floor-to-wall application is not the only laminate innovation from TORLYS. You can now install TORLYS laminate transition-free *. That means no more transitions in doorways or long hallways! The flow from room-to-room is seamless, allowing for a cleaner, flawless design.

*  Transition-free installation does not apply to Lexington collection.

New Looks in Laminate

Great looks. Great price. Amazing new applications. When you choose a TORLYS laminate floor, there isn’t a look you can’t achieve with the budget you have. All our laminate collections feature on-trend designer styles and colours. With transition-free flooring, new installation techniques and longer, wider planks, TORLYS laminate is making its way into every home.

Are you ready to see TORLYS laminate flooring in person? Visit your local TORLYS dealer or order a flooring sample today. You can also use our new room visualizer to preview what TORLYS floors will look like in your home!

Design Note: Maximize Space Without Sacrificing Comfort

Whether it’s a home in the city or a cabin in the woods, one of today’s hot renovation trends is to maximize living space. Rather than endure moving, ambitious renovators are taking down walls, installing bigger windows and changing out old patio doors with double glass doors or sliders. The result is an open airy space with better traffic flow and lots of room for family and friends to gather.

However, with every renovation benefit comes a challenge or two to overcome. Depending on the finishing materials, oversize rooms can lose acoustic qualities. They also tend to become a little drafty. Even if energy efficient windows and doors are installed, an expanded great room with more windows will be cooler. To maintain comfort (and avoid cold feet), install surfaces that are textured, soft or have insulating qualities.

Cozy Up Your Fabric

Upholstery fabrics like chenille, velvet or cotton twill are soft to the touch and wonderfully comfortable.

Pillows, Throws and Scatter Mats

You can never have too many soft accessories in a family room. Toss cushions and throws encourage afternoon naps while scatter mats keep the chill of tile or hardwood floor at bay.

Ultimate in Beauty and Warmth – TORLYS CorkWood™

Until recently, the only hardwood options were real wood or a laminate version of wood. Both are great options in terms of style, but neither promote terrific acoustics or add warmth under foot. Cork, on the other hand, is a natural material known for its sound absorption qualities, resilience and heat retention.

Good news! TORLYS just introduced an amazing line of gorgeous cork flooring featuring hardwood-style planks! The collection is called CorkWood, and its floors combine the beauty of wood, the resilience of laminate and all the comfort and warmth of cork.

Want to install TORLYS CorkWood in your home? Visit your local TORLYS dealer today!

TORLYS SuperSolid Design Ideas for Your Home

How to Use SuperSolid in Your Home

TORLYS SuperSolid floors are solid wood floors, constructed from three layers of the same species of wood in either oak or birch. We offer three different collections available in a variety of beautiful colours and sizes that create a warm, inviting impression. The 100% hardwood core provides stability and long-lasting performance, and the best-in-class Klumpp topcoat maintains the natural wood structure.

The benefit of constructed hardwood is its engineered core that resists any cupping and gapping, and reduces environmental impact. You get the warmth and beauty of real wood along with a reliable construction.

We’ve outlined several Interior design styles below and selected the SuperSolid floor that would pair perfectly.

Perfect Symmetry

Design symmetry occurs when, from right to left, the furniture, lighting and décor placement almost mirror each other. The result is a smart, handsome, elegant and inviting space, perfect for entertaining.

There is an important design feature, however, that will elevate symmetry from predictable to interesting—texture. Both visual texture (character, wood grains and lighting effects) and tactile texture (soft, plush fabrics and a lush area rug) can contribute greatly to the success of the design.

TORLYS SuperSolid 7 Harbour View Oak features a unique wood grain with mineral streaks, varying colours and natural-looking knots. This TORLYS floor’s varied appearance makes a statement.

Simply Sophisticated

It’s rare to find a space that boasts both sophisticated style and simple serenity. Rich, textured surfaces and fabrics blend effortlessly in shades of taupe and mocha. Sharp black accents can give the space structure and form. To emulate this style in your own home, select solid versus patterned fabrics, minimize decorative accents, and keep the furniture site line low. TORLYS SuperSolid 7 Ragged Rock Oak texture and character will set the stage for the rich neutral tones.

Sophisticated Shades of Gray

To create a master bedroom that is the ultimate in sophistication, consider going gray. Keep the tones very soft and warm to avoid the room becoming dark and drab. The lightest gray should be almost white. Next, select deeper shades of gray (varying in small degrees) to attain the perfect balance of warmth and luxury. Decorative accents in polished nickel, brushed platinum, crystal and sparkling white will add class and sparkle. TORLYS SuperSolid 7 Beach Grove Oak is the perfect hardwood floor for any room featuring shades of gray. The vintage character of the oak and its different shades of gray will create a soft, subtle space where you can relax and spoil yourself.

Modern Purity

Interior design trends are following in the footsteps of nature. Instead of manipulating natural materials into something totally different, designers are celebrating what Mother Nature delivers in its original form. Natural, matte finished stone, wood with natural grain patterns, and soft, imperfect organic shapes are key trends. This modern dining room features a surprising level of comfort and warmth through the character and charm of the materials. TORLYS SuperSolid 7 Sedgebrook Oak is a perfect example of a natural hardwood floor that highlights raw beauty in a soft neutral tone. The effect is rustic without being harsh. Mother Nature would be proud!

Industrial Strength

The look is rough, rugged and often described as brutal. Industrial interior décor employs basic raw materials and purposely exposes the inner workings of the building to make a one-of-a-kind statement. Rough concrete walls, iron pipes, factory task lighting and exposed duct work are eye-catching elements. To warm the look of the room, and give it a touch of style, textured hardwood flooring is perfect. TORLYS SuperSolid 7 Portland Oak has a rich brown, wire brushed finish that exposes the vintage quality of the oak.

Vintage Provence

You can create the warmth and charm of a vintage French country cottage by following a few simple rules.

  • First, keep the walls creamy white. If you insist on colour, keep it very soft with just a hint of gray.
  • Second, wrought iron details for the lighting, hardware and railings are a perfect touch—strong, yet delicate.
  • Third, very few homes have exposed beams, but faux versions are easy to build and install. Keep the finish natural and distressed.
  • Fourth, choose natural white oak for both flooring and décor. TORLYS SuperSolid 7 Wildwood Oak is perfect—the planks are wide and long and feature unique character and texture.
  • Finally, complete the look with one or two distressed antiques (leave the peeling paint alone!), and you will have created your own one-of-a-kind Vintage Provence space.

Are you looking to incorporate TORLYS SuperSolid floors into your home? Visit a TORLYS dealer  for personalized advice on creating the perfect space for you.

Love Change: The Redecorating Season is Coming!

Let’s be honest, summer 2017 has been temperamental and soggy. Thankfully, in just a few weeks a new season arrives for us to enjoy—FALL! This season brings bright sunny days, cool crisp evenings, holiday anticipation, and of course, the changing of the leaves.

Fall is also the number one season for interior renovations. It’s the perfect time to take a look at your living and dining spaces and give them a facelift. A new coat of paint is easy and inexpensive and changing outdated lighting will add sparkle to any room. However, the best investment you can make is to upgrade your floors to hardwood.

Change your flooring

Hardwood flooring will add beauty, warmth, comfort and luxury to any room. In the past, hardwood was not always an option if the climate you lived in experienced extreme temperatures and humidity shifts. If you lived in a condo apartment, you had to forget about hardwood—its cement foundation was too unstable. But thanks to TORLYS, those problems are no longer issues! TORLYS has engineered a hardwood floor that will perform beautifully in any condition or climate!

TORLYS SuperSolid

Introducing TORLYS SuperSolid flooring, a superior hardwood floor designed for stability and long-lasting performance. The patented 100% hardwood core construction allows the floor to be installed above and below grade—even over radiant heat. The floor has been designed to resist gapping, cracking and splitting even with humidity and temperature shifts.

TORLYS SuperSolid hardwood also offers stunning design features. The planks are long and vary in width; from 5″, to the newly introduced 6″ collection, to the 7″ series. The SuperSolid collection features a beautiful array of the latest hardwood colours, character and finishing options.

Creamy layers of rich neutrals make this space calm and inviting. The unique character of the TORLYS hardwood floor adds charm and texture.

Avoid the starkness of modern interiors by adding materials with texture and character. In this space, the brick wall, reclaimed vintage furniture, and rich grain of the TORLYS hardwood floor create a handsome, yet comfortable bedroom.

The luxury and comfort of grey come together in this relaxing living area. The rich grain character of the TORLYS hardwood floor complements the fieldstone fireplace and organic inspired details perfectly.

Natural white oak hardwood is the ideal flooring for almost any room because it works with many different décors. The clean, organic feel to this TORLYS floor gives the room a warm, contemporary feel. Simple, yet sophisticated.