What Should I Expect?

When searching for hardwood flooring companies in Calgary, you should expect excellent service and a beautiful final product. Every aspect of this business revolves around offering our customers the very best service. From hardwood floor installation to hardwood floor repairs, we have got you covered. We take a lot of pride in the work we do and the way we make our customers feel. In one phrase, expect peace of mind.

What’s the Most Durable Product You Use?

We use a highly rated commercial grade product for customers who want a low shine floor. This two-part mix finish has the best durability of any product available on the market.

Can Hardwood Floors Be Repaired Instead of Replaced?

Yes. In many cases, scratched or damaged wood floors can be repaired and refinished without full replacement. Our repair and floor refinishing services restore your existing hardwood to its original beauty at a fraction of the cost of new floors.

How Do I Choose the Right Flooring Contractor in Calgary?

Look for proven experience, clear warranties, and strong client reviews. Our team has completed over 3,000 projects locally, making us one of the most trusted flooring contractors in Calgary for both residential and commercial spaces.

Is Solid Hardwood Flooring a Good Investment for Calgary Homes?

Yes. Solid hardwood flooring in Calgary is one of the most durable and timeless options available. Properly installed and maintained, hardwood can last for generations, adding long-term value and style to any property.

What Is the Cost To Install Solid Hardwood Flooring in Calgary?

Pricing varies based on wood species, plank width, and square footage. On average, most Calgary hardwood flooring installations range from $8 to $15 per square foot. Our expert installers provide accurate quotes before any project begins.

What Makes Bull Tough Flooring Different From Other Calgary Flooring Companies?

Unlike many general flooring companies in Calgary, we work exclusively with solid hardwood. As dedicated hardwood flooring specialists, our focus is on refinishing, repairing, and installing hardwood floors with dustless sanding systems and lifetime installation warranties.

How Long Will the Process Take?

The length of the process depends on the size and service type of the hardwood floor project. 3 days for dustless hardwood floor refinishing in Calgary for an average 1000 sq. ft. floor. 5–6 days for an average 1000 sq. ft hardwood floor installation. Most projects less than 500 sq. ft can be completed in less than 2 days.

How Can I Prevent Scratches On My Hardwood Floors?

To keep your hardwood floors in peak condition, we recommend placing felt pads under furniture legs, use area rugs in high-traffic areas, and keep pet nails trimmed. Avoid dragging furniture across the floor.

What Kind of Maintenance Can I Do at Home?

Regular maintenance of hardwood floors can extend the longevity and reduce the need for costly repairs. We recommend using a microfiber mop or cloth with a hardwood floor cleaner when cleaning your floors to minimize damage to your hardwood floors. We can also complete a maintenance coat on your floors as an effective, inexpensive method to maintain your floors and prolong their life.

Do You Sand Under the Fridge, Stove, or Dishwasher?

You can leave appliances in place, and we can refinish up to them; however, if you’re going to be changing the colour we recommend removing the fridge and stove. You can remove or reinstall them or have us take care of it.

Should I Remove the Baseboards?

You have a choice. If you leave them in place, minor paint touch ups will be required. If you choose to remove them the effort will be rewarded. Removing the baseboards allows us to refinish right up to the wall so when the baseboards are replaced you will have a clean and sharp looking finished edge. We call the baseboards the picture frame to the art it contains.

Should I Remove the Sink and Toilet in the Washroom?

Yes, in a tight space like a half bathroom you typically need to remove the toilet and sink. In some situations, we can refinish around them; in this case, please clean the toilet base thoroughly.

Can You Use a Matte or Flat Finish?

Yes, the sheen of the finishes ranges from high gloss to ultra-flat. Our most popular product is a high durability, low maintenance, ultra-flat hardwood floor finish.

How Do I Pick a Stain Colour?

Picking the stain is a simple but thorough process. First we discuss your options. Secondly, we use pictures and videos to show you your options and thirdly, we sand the floor down the bare wood and then put a few stain samples down as a reference point. From there, we can customize the colour to your liking.

How Much Do You Charge to Install/Refinish a Floor?

Hardwood flooring installation costs in Calgary and refinishing costs will depend on several factors, so we don’t use a specific dollar per square foot to calculate your quote. The job is broken down into various stages and priced accordingly.

How Often Should I Refinish My Hardwood Floors?

The frequency in which you should refinish your hardwood floors depends on the amount of foot traffic and the condition of the floors. Generally, hardwood floors should be refinished every 7–10 years.

What Are the Benefits of Dustless Hardwood Refinishing?

Dustless hardwood floor refinishing uses advanced vacuum technology to capture dust at the source, reducing airborne particles and minimizing cleanup. It has quickly become a popular choice for hardwood flooring in Calgary and across the world. Some of the benefits include minimized dust and allergens, improved air quality and enhanced safety, better finish quality, environmentally friendly processing, and less cleanup and downtime.

What is the Floor Sanding Process?

Bull Tough is proud to offer dustless hardwood refinishing in Calgary. The process involves floor preparation, checking and securing the floor, checking moisture readings, confirming stain colour, sanding hardwood floor, applying stain, applying topcoats, cleanup, inspection, touch ups, and final inspection.

What Products Do You Use on the Hardwood Floor?

For hardwood flooring in Calgary, there are only a few professional grade products available. For staining, we use Bona DriFast Stain. This is a great product. They have a good selection of base stain colours ranging from white through to ebony, which can easily be custom mixed to your preference. For our finish coat, we use a variety of products from the German manufacturer Loba. They have a range of products suitable for all situations. These are quick-drying finishes and have excellent durability. The most popular finish we use is ultra-low shine.

Exploring Different Hardwood Floor Finishes

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Exploring Different Hardwood Floor Finishes and Their Benefits

Hardwood floors are a timeless choice for homeowners and businesses alike, with their natural beauty, durability, and versatility making them an ideal flooring option for many spaces. However, one important aspect to consider when installing or refurbishing hardwood floors is the finish. A hardwood floor finish not only enhances the floor’s appearance but also plays a crucial role in protecting the wood and determining its longevity.

There are many different options when it comes to hardwood floor finishes, and at Bull Tough Flooring we do several. Here we will explore some of the most popular options and the factors that go into choosing the best one for your surfaces while also providing you with cleaning and maintenance tips for each finish type.

The Most Popular Hardwood Floor Finishes Explained

There are various types of hardwood floor finishes available today, with each offering unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular hardwood floor finishes:

1. Polyurethane Finishes

Polyurethane is one of the most widely used finishes for hardwood floors due to its durability and ease of maintenance. Water-based polyurethanes are the most popular and widely used finishes. These are a popular choice for those looking for a clear, non-yellowing finish. It dries much faster than its oil-based counterpart and has a milder odour. It is equally durable compared to oil-based polyurethane. Water based finishes have strong options for most residential and commercial spaces.

Oil-based polyurethane is known for its rich, amber tone and provides a warm look to the wood. It’s extremely durable and resistant to wear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms. However, it takes longer to dry and its strong odour can linger for a while after application. The excessive dry times for oil based finished significantly increase the cost to use them.

2. Wax Finishes

Wax is a traditional finish that has been used for centuries. It provides a soft, low-sheen look that enhances the wood’s natural beauty. Although wax finishes are easy to apply and repair, they require regular maintenance and are not as durable as polyurethane. Wax is more vulnerable to moisture and scratches, making it less ideal for areas prone to spills or heavy traffic. Wax is no longer an option for residential floor finishing.

3. Shellac Finishes

Shellac is a natural resin derived from the secretions of the lac bug. It creates a high-gloss finish and enhances the wood’s natural grain. Shellac is easy to apply and dries quickly, but it’s not very resistant to water or chemicals, making it less ideal for kitchens or bathrooms. Additionally, shellac can be sensitive to high-traffic areas and may require frequent touch-ups. Shellac is no longer an option for floor finishing.

4. Aluminum Oxide Finishes

Aluminum oxide is commonly used in prefinished hardwood flooring and is known for its outstanding durability. This finish can last up to 25 years, making it a great option for homeowners looking for long-lasting protection. Aluminum oxide finishes are highly resistant to scratches, UV light, and fading. However, they are difficult to repair if damaged and usually require professional refinishing.

5. Penetrating Oil Finishes

Penetrating oil finishes soak deep into the wood, offering a natural and matte appearance. These finishes are eco-friendly and enhance the natural grain of the wood. They are also relatively easy to repair if damaged, as they don’t sit on top of the wood like polyurethane. However, they require regular reapplication and are less resistant to scratches and moisture.

How to Choose the Right Finish for Your Hardwood Floors

Selecting the right hardwood floor finish depends on several factors, including the level of foot traffic, the desired aesthetic, and the maintenance routine you’re willing to commit to. Here are some key considerations to help guide your decision:

Durability: For high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and living rooms, a durable finish like polyurethane is ideal. These finishes are designed to withstand heavy use and protect the wood from scratches and stains.
Aesthetic Preference: If you want a finish that enhances the natural beauty of the wood without adding shine, a low sheen finish might be the best choice.
Maintenance Requirements: Some finishes, like polyurethane, require minimal maintenance, while others, such as wax or penetrating oil, need regular reapplication. Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in maintaining your floors when choosing a finish.
Environmental Considerations: If eco-friendliness is a priority, look for low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) finishes, such as water-based polyurethane or natural oils, that minimize the release of harmful fumes into your living environment.
Room Type: Moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways require finishes that can handle spills and humidity. Water-based polyurethanes finishes provide excellent water resistance.

Benefits of Matte vs. Glossy Hardwood Finishes

When it comes to the appearance of your hardwood floors, one of the most noticeable factors is the sheen level. The two most common options are matte and glossy finishes, each offering its own set of advantages.

Matte Hardwood Finishes

Matte finishes offer a more understated, natural look. They’re perfect for creating a rustic or minimalist aesthetic, as they allow the wood’s natural grain and texture to take center stage. One of the key benefits of matte finishes is their ability to hide dust, dirt, and imperfections better than glossy finishes. This makes them an excellent choice for households with pets or children, where scratches or minor blemishes are more likely to occur.

Glossy Hardwood Finishes

Glossy finishes provide a shiny, reflective surface that gives hardwood floors a luxurious and polished appearance. High-gloss finishes can make a room appear larger and brighter by reflecting more light. However, they tend to show scratches, dust, and footprints more easily, requiring more frequent cleaning and maintenance. Glossy finishes are best suited for formal areas or spaces where a high-end aesthetic is desired.

Maintenance Tips for Different Hardwood Floor Finishes

Proper maintenance is essential to prolong the life of your hardwood floors and keep them looking their best. Each finish type has different requirements when it comes to cleaning and care.

Polyurethane (Oil- and Water-Based)

Use a microfibre mop to remove dust and dirt regularly.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning pads, as they can damage the finish.
For oil-based finishes, consider using a cleaner specifically designed for oil finishes.
Reapply the finish every few years to maintain its protective qualities.

Wax Finishes

Wax floors need regular buffing to restore their sheen.
Apply a fresh coat of wax every 6-12 months, depending on the level of foot traffic.
Avoid using water-based cleaners, as moisture can damage wax finishes.

Shellac Finishes

Use a dry mop or a vacuum to clean dust regularly.
Since shellac is sensitive to moisture, avoid wet-mopping the floor.
For scratches or damaged areas, spot-repair with additional coats of shellac.

Aluminum Oxide Finishes

Clean with a pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner.
These finishes are highly durable, but any deep scratches may require professional refinishing.

Penetrating Oil Finishes

Clean with a damp mop or soft cloth to remove dirt and dust.
Reapply oil every six to 12 months to keep the wood nourished and protected.
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, as they can strip the oil from the wood.

Choosing the right hardwood floor finish is key to ensuring that your floors not only look great but also stand the test of time. Whether you opt for a durable polyurethane, a natural oil finish, or one of our other options, each finish type offers its own unique benefits and challenges.

As a leading hardwood flooring contractor in Calgary, we can handle any hardwood flooring installation and hardwood floor refinishing job. We can also help you find the perfect finish to match your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Contact us today to learn more about our hardwood floor finishing options and expert installation services!