Frequently Asked Questions
Stairs & Hardwood Flooring
Services & Installation
What types of hardwood flooring do you install?
We specialize in solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, and custom stair treads. We work with
various species including Oak, Maple, Walnut, and exotic imports. We can advise on the best choice
for your specific subfloor and lifestyle needs.
Do you handle staircases as well as floors?
Yes. Our core specialization includes both horizontal flooring and vertical stair installations. This
ensures a cohesive look and consistent finish throughout your home’s circulation spaces. We handle
straight runs, L-shapes, U-shapes, and spiral configurations.
Do I need a building permit for flooring or stairs?
In most Ontario municipalities, cosmetic flooring replacement does not require a permit.
However, if your project involves structural changes to stair stringers, load-bearing walls, or
significant alterations to the staircase geometry, a permit may be required. We recommend [Verify]
with your local municipal office before starting major structural work.
How long does a typical installation take?
Timelines vary based on square footage and drying times for finishes. A standard room typically
takes 1–3 days. Whole-home projects or complex staircases may take 1–3 weeks. We provide a
detailed schedule during the estimate phase.
Pricing & Estimates
How is the pricing calculated?
Pricing is typically quoted per square foot for flooring and per step for stairs. This includes
materials, labor, and finishing. Please note that Ontario’s Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) is 13% and is
added to all final invoices unless otherwise specified.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes, we provide complimentary on-site assessments to measure your space accurately and
discuss material options.
Financing & Insurance
Can I use my home insurance to pay for new flooring?
Generally, home insurance covers damage (e.g., from water leaks, fire, or storms) rather than
cosmetic upgrades.
● Damage Claims: If your existing floor was damaged by a covered peril, your insurer may
cover the cost of replacement up to your policy limits.
● Upgrades: Standard policies do not cover voluntary renovations.
● Recommendation: Contact your insurance provider to clarify your coverage before
assuming a claim will be approved for renovation costs.
What financing options are available for renovations?
There are several common avenues for funding renovations in Ontario. We do not provide
financing directly, but we can provide invoices to support your application. Common options include:
● Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): Often offers lower interest rates by using your home
as collateral.
● Personal Loans: Unsecured loans with fixed terms, though rates may be higher than
secured options.
● Contractor Financing: Some third-party lenders partner with contractors to offer payment
plans. [Verify] if we have current partnerships available.
● Government Programs: Occasionally, federal or provincial programs offer grants for
energy-efficient upgrades or accessibility modifications (e.g., stair lifts or wider stairs). These
programs change frequently.
Process & Warranty
Do you offer warranties on your work?
Yes. We provide a workmanship warranty covering installation defects. Additionally,
manufacturers provide warranties on the materials themselves (e.g., wear layers, finish durability).
We supply all manufacturer documentation upon completion.
How should I prepare my home before installation?
We recommend removing all furniture and rugs from the work area. We can assist with moving
items for an additional fee if arranged beforehand. Ensure the area is accessible and
climate-controlled (temperature and humidity levels affect wood expansion).
Important Note on Financial Information
This FAQ is intended for informational purposes. Interest rates, insurance policy terms, and
government grant programs fluctuate. For the most current information on financing rates or eligible
grants, I recommend enabling Web Search to verify the latest offerings from Canadian financial
institutions and the Ontario government.
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Specialized Solutions: Pet & Senior-Friendly Hardwood & Stairs
Pet-Friendly Flooring & Stairs
Will my dog's claws scratch the hardwood floor?
All hardwood can be scratched, but we can significantly minimize this risk by selecting the right
species and finish.
● Maintenance: Regular trimming of pet nails is the single most effective way to protect your
investment.
Is hardwood safe for pets if they have accidents?
Modern engineered hardwood and properly sealed solid hardwood are highly resistant to moisture
if cleaned immediately. However, prolonged exposure to urine or water can cause warping or
staining.
● Recommendation: For areas prone to accidents (like near pet doors or crates), we often
suggest engineered hardwood
● Stairs: For stair treads, we apply extra coats of finish to the nosing (the front edge), before
installation where paws frequently land.
Can you install non-slip surfaces on stairs for pets?
Yes. While smooth wood can be slippery for dogs with arthritis or those running up and down, we
offer several solutions:
● Textured Finishes: We have solid red oak threads “hand-scraped” or wire-brushed texture
that provides natural grip without compromising the aesthetic.
● Non-Slip Strips: We can install clear, low-profile non-slip treads or adhesive strips on the
stair nosing (subject to pre-order, with additional fees)
Senior-Friendly & Accessibility Features
Is hardwood flooring safe for seniors with mobility issues?
Yes, hardwood is often
preferred over carpet for seniors because it eliminates trip hazards caused by loose rugs or thick
padding.
● Slip Resistance: Our threads are finished with a matte coating, rather than a high gloss
finish. High-gloss finishes can be slippery, especially when wet. Matte finishes provide better
traction while still looking elegant.
● Transition Strips: We ensure all transitions between rooms are flush and seamless to
prevent tripping over height differences.
Can you make staircases safer for seniors?
Absolutely. Safety is our priority when designing staircases for older adults. We can incorporate:
● Wider Treads: We can build stairs with deeper treads as a special request, subject to
additional fee, to allow for a more stable footing.
● Consistent Riser Height: Ensuring every step is exactly the same height prevents
missteps.
● Handrails: We can install sturdy, ergonomic handrails on one or both sides. We offer various
grip diameters suitable for arthritic hands.
● Lighting Integration: We can design staircases with built-in LED lighting under the nosing
or along the wall to improve visibility at night.
● Non-Slip Treatments: Similar to pet-friendly options, we can apply textured finishes or
install subtle non-slip treads that blend with the wood grain (subject to pre-order, with
additional fees).
What about installing ramps or modifying stairs for wheelchairs or walkers?
While we specialize in stairs and flooring, we can coordinate with accessibility contractors to:
● Widen staircases to accommodate walkers.
● Install temporary or permanent ramps alongside existing stairs.
● Modify stair geometry (e.g., reducing the rise) to meet Ontario Building Code accessibility
standards.
● Note: Structural changes to stairs often require a building permit in Ontario. We can guide
you on the next steps for permitting.
Maintenance for Vulnerable Households
How do I clean hardwood floors if I have pets or elderly family members?
● Avoid Water: Never soak the floor. Use a damp (not wet) microfiber mop.
● Pet Hair: Regular sweeping or vacuuming with a hard-floor attachment prevents grit from
scratching the surface.
● Spills: Clean up spills immediately to prevent slipping hazards and water damage.
● Products: We recommend pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for hardwood. Avoid
wax-based or oil-soap products that can make floors slippery.
Important Considerations for Ontario Homeowners
● Ontario Building Code (OBC): Any structural modification to stairs (changing the rise/run
ratio or width) must comply with the OBC. If you are renovating for accessibility, ensure your
plans are reviewed by a qualified professional.
● Insurance: Standard home insurance in Ontario generally covers accidental damage but
may not cover wear and tear or pre-existing conditions. If you are installing specific safety
features (like handrails) due to a medical condition, check with your insurer if they offer
discounts for “home safety modifications.”
● Financing: Some financial institutions in Ontario offer specific “Accessibility Loans” or lines
of credit for seniors to fund home modifications.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes. Always consult with a certified contractor,
building inspector, or medical professional regarding specific accessibility needs and local building
codes.