The Different Types of Floating Floors

How much does a floating floor cost? Depending on the quality of the product, the amount of money you will need to set aside for your floating floor project will vary from one extreme to another.

Floating floors are quite popular due to the fact that they look good and are generally quite affordable. However, it should be known that there are several different categories in terms of price and quality. Canada doesn't apply any norms which could help choose amongst the wide range of products, which is why it is so important to be made aware of the information that will be detailed in the following paragraphs.

How to determine the quality of a floating floor

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Although, as mentioned, there are no specific norms for floating floors, a scale going from AC1 to AC5 will help indicate the quality of the material. AC3, AC4 and AC5 are used for mid to high-quality products, whereas AC1 and AC2 floating floors should be avoided. Note that AC3 floors are suitable for residential areas with little foot circulation and AC4 and AC5 work best for commercial buildings and facilities, which see a lot of circulation.

Warranties for floating floors

The three highest ratings come with a 25-year warranty, whereas the two lower ones have 10 to 15-year warranties. We do have to issue a warning about these warranties: certain floating floors experience a gradual depreciation over the years, meaning that a floor that was bought 5 years ago could not benefit from the same type of coverage as a floor that was installed last year.

Average prices for floating floors

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In terms of prices, lower-end products sell for approximately $1.75 to $2,50 per square foot. This type of floating floor is quite resistant but it rarely manages to recreate the look of real wood.

Mid-range floating floors go for $2,50 to $3,50 per square foot. This option offers the best value for the amount of money spent. Not only is the quality superior but the way the floorboards are cut manages to recreate a style that is comparable to hardwood floors.

High end floating floors will set you back $3,50 to $8,50 per square foot. This product range is set apart from the other categories with the superior finish that is applied on the surface. Contrary to lower-end and mid-range products, this range follows the grain of the wood.

Although you can try to install a floating floor yourself, hiring a professional contractor is always recommended for a top-notch job. If you decide to go with the second option, calculate approximately $1,50 to $3 per square foot.

Extra costs

Certain extra costs may arise, such as shipping for the materials, labour costs for pieces of furniture that would need to be moved around as well as any fees incurred for the removal of the old floor covering. Moreover, certain expenses should be foreseen if the subfloor needs to be prepared before the new floor is installed or if extra materials are needed to complete the floor installation process.

Cover photo: Pexels

Author: Karine Dutemple

Translation from French: Léa Plourde-Archer