Why choose floating flooring?
Floating flooring has become the preferred choice of Quebec homeowners for renovating their living spaces. This popularity is due to its unique combination of refined aesthetics, exceptional durability and remarkable affordability. Unlike traditional floors that require complex and costly installations, floating flooring is the ideal solution to transform your home without compromising quality or exceeding your budget.
Accessible and fast installation
The innovative click system of floating flooring revolutionizes floor installation. This clever technology allows boards to be assembled without glue, nails or staples, greatly simplifying the installation process. The boards lock together precisely, creating a uniform, stable surface.
Even novice DIYers can complete their project in a weekend, representing a substantial saving on professional labour costs. This floating installation method means the floor rests on an underlay without being fixed to the subfloor, allowing natural flexibility to accommodate subtle movements in your home.
Practical everyday advantages:
Simplified DIY installation : Glue- and nail-free click system, floating installation on an underlay that cuts installation time in half compared with traditional methods. No drying time required — you can walk on your new floor immediately after installation.
Minimal and economical maintenance : Naturally resistant to common stains, floating flooring requires only a quick damp-mop. Unlike hardwood, which needs regular maintenance, or carpet that traps allergens and dust mites, laminate flooring keeps its look with minimal effort. Ideal for busy families and pet owners.
Long-term proven durability : Wear classes AC3, AC4 and AC5 ensure exceptional resistance to daily wear, offering an impressive lifespan of 15 to 30 years depending on the model chosen. The protective melamine or aluminum oxide layer guards against scratches, abrasion, impacts and even UV-induced fading.
Versatile, authentic aesthetics : High-definition printing technologies create remarkably realistic reproductions of hardwoods, natural stone or ceramic tiles. Embossed-in-register textures, natural tone variations and various formats (wide planks, herringbone, patterns) allow you to recreate the luxurious look of high-end materials at a fraction of the cost.
Unbeatable value for money : Floating flooring typically costs 3 to 5 times less than traditional hardwood flooring, while offering superior scratch and wear resistance. Savings continue over time thanks to minimal maintenance costs and no need for periodic sanding, staining or varnishing.
Improved acoustic comfort : When installed with a quality underlay, floating flooring significantly reduces footfall noise and echo, creating a more comfortable, peaceful atmosphere in your home. Particularly appreciated in condos and multi-storey houses.
Superior dimensional stability : Unlike solid wood, which expands and contracts significantly with humidity changes, laminate flooring maintains remarkable stability, minimizing the risk of cupping, cracking or joint separation.
Eco-friendly options available : Several manufacturers now offer floating floors made from recycled materials and certified by recognized environmental organizations, allowing you to renovate responsibly.
Versatility of application
Floating flooring adapts to virtually every room in your home. Whether you're renovating your cozy living room, family kitchen, comfortable bedrooms or even your basement, there is a floating floor designed specifically to meet the demands of each space. Water-resistant models further expand these possibilities by allowing installation in damp environments that were once incompatible with traditional laminate flooring.
Floating flooring vs laminate flooring: what's the difference?
Many customers ask us this question. In reality, floating flooring and laminate flooring generally refer to the same product:
- Laminate describes the composition: several laminated layers (HDF core, decorative image layer, transparent protective wear layer)
- Floating describes the installation method: the floor is not fixed to the subfloor, it floats on a membrane
Most modern laminate floors use floating installation. So they're the same. The term 'laminate floor' is also used interchangeably.
Types of floating floors available
Standard floating flooring
The economical choice par excellence. Ideal for bedrooms, living rooms and offices with moderate traffic. Thicknesses from 7mm to 10mm, AC3 or AC4 rating.
Water-resistant floating flooring
Designed with water-repellent technology, this type of water-resistant floating floor is perfect for kitchens, bathrooms and basements. Protection against moisture and accidental spills.
AC5 floating flooring (high resistance)
For high-traffic areas such as entrances, hallways and even light commercial use. 12mm thickness, reinforced wear layer, extended warranty.
Floating vinyl flooring (LVP)
A modern alternative to laminate, 100% waterproof. Perfect for all rooms including full bathrooms. Installation is the same floating method.
How to choose your floating floor?
By room:
Bedrooms : Standard 8-10mm, AC3 sufficient, acoustic comfort
Kitchen : Water-resistant floating flooring essential, AC4 minimum
Bathroom : Must be waterproof (LVP or water-resistant), membrane required
Living room & family room : AC4, 10-12mm for durability and comfort
Entryway & hallway : AC5, 12mm, high resistance to daily traffic
Basement : Water-resistant + vapor barrier membrane essential
By thickness:
- 7-8mm : Economical, easy installs, low-traffic areas
- 10mm : Recommended standard, good balance of quality, price and comfort
- 12mm+ : Premium, better stability, superior sound insulation
By wear class (AC):
- AC3 : Moderate residential use (≈ 2-3 people)
- AC4 : Heavy residential use (≈ 4-5 people, pets)
- AC5 : Very heavy use or light commercial
Floating floor installation
One of the main advantages of floating flooring is its ease of installation. The modern click system requires no glue or nails.
DIY installation (Do it yourself):
- Simple, fast click system
- Required tools: saw, tape measure, spacer wedges, mallet
- Time required: 1-2 days for an average-sized room
Key steps:
- Prepare the subfloor (flat, clean, dry surface)
- Install the underlayment membrane (acoustic and/or vapor barrier)
- Acclimate the boxes for 48 hours in the room
- Lay the boards staggered (joints offset by at least 30 cm)
- Install finishing mouldings and quarter-rounds
Professional installation:
We can refer you to certified installers in your area. Guaranteed results, fast installation.
Maintenance of your floating floor
Regular cleaning:
- Daily sweeping or vacuuming (without a beater bar)
- Lightly damp mopping with a cleaner made for laminate floors
- Avoid standing water even on water-resistant models
What to avoid:
- Excess water
- Steam cleaners (unless the model is specifically compatible)
- Abrasive products, bleach or wax
- Dragging heavy furniture without protection
Tips to extend lifespan:
- Entry mats to reduce sand and dirt
- Felt pads under all furniture legs
- Clean up spills immediately
- Maintain stable humidity levels (40-60%)
Essential accessories
Membranes and underlays:
- Acoustic membrane (reduces footfall noise)
- Vapor barrier membrane (protection against moisture from concrete)
- 2-in-1 combined underlay (acoustic + vapor barrier)
Mouldings and finishes:
- Quarter-round and baseboards matched to the floors
- Transition thresholds (junctions between rooms)
- Stair nosing
Tools and products:
- Complete installation kit (spacers, pull bar, tapping block)
- Specialized laminate cleaning products
- Repair kit for small scratches
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between floating flooring and laminate flooring?
There is no fundamental difference! 'Laminate' describes the product composition (laminated layers), while 'floating' describes the installation method. The majority of laminate floors use floating installation.
Can you install floating flooring over concrete?
Absolutely! Just use an appropriate vapor barrier membrane to protect against potential moisture from the concrete. It's actually one of the most common applications.
How long does a floating floor last?
Between 15 and 30 years depending on wear class (AC3 to AC5) and maintenance. High-end AC5 models can last over 30 years in a residential environment.
Is floating flooring water resistant?
Standard models resist splashes but not standing water. For kitchens and bathrooms, specifically choose a water-resistant floating floor or a 100% waterproof LVP.
Can floating flooring be installed with radiant heating?
Yes, but check that the model is explicitly compatible. Most modern floors 10mm and thinner are suitable for radiant heating.
Do you need to leave an expansion gap?
Yes, it's mandatory! Leave an 8-10mm gap around the perimeter to allow the material to expand and contract naturally with temperature and humidity changes.
Can you install a floating floor yourself?
Absolutely! The click system is designed for DIY installation. With the right tools and by following the instructions, an average DIYer can install a room in 1-2 days.
Is floating flooring suitable for pets?
Yes, choose AC4 or AC5 with an anti-scratch finish. Claws can damage budget AC3 models. Keep your pets' claws trimmed regularly.
What thickness of floating floor should you choose?
10mm is the recommended standard for a good balance of quality, price and comfort. 12mm offers better acoustics and stability. 7-8mm is suitable for tight budgets and low-traffic areas.
Can you install floating flooring in a basement?
Yes, using a quality vapor barrier membrane and preferably a water-resistant model. Make sure the basement has no water infiltration issues.
Why choose emard couvre-planchers?
Wide Selection - Hundreds of models in stock
Recognized Expertise - Free personalized advice
Available Stock - Fast delivery in your area
Complete Service - From selection to installer referrals
Satisfaction Guaranteed - Exceptional after-sales service
Current promotions : Visit our showroom or contact us to discover our clearance sales and special offers on floating flooring!
