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Dear Bob and Betsy,
I have a cabin that I use off and on throughout the year and we’re looking to make a few upgrades. The cabin is not temperature regulated when we are not there. What is the best floor for this type of usage?
– Ron G.
Dear Ron,
That is a great question! We often don’t think about how temperature affects our flooring, but it can lead to major issues. Humidity and drastic changes in any wood-based flooring, such as laminate or engineered hardwood, can leave you with gaps and/or buckling planks. We have compiled more information for you to help to decide what’s best for you. Cheers! Bob & Betsy
For a cabin that is not temperature regulated, we would recommend a vinyl plank floor. Vinyl planks are a synthetic material that are waterproof and do not shift with temperature change. This flooring is also anti-slip, scratch resistant and affordable.
Most indoor vinyl floors will only have a warranty that covers temperature controlled spaces. If you are concerned about upholding a warranty, you will want to look at vinyl options that are suitable for indoor and outdoor usage.
Vinyl plank flooring is easy to install and comes in a variety of looks, such as wood, tile and stone. Find a rustic look with a hand scraped texture or a subtle stone look to match your cabin’s appeal.
You can choose from a floating vinyl plank, a glue down vinyl plank, loose lay vinyl floor or a sheet vinyl. With a glue down, you’ll experience the least amount of movement with a long lifespan. This can be a quick project that creates a beautiful look for years.
If you’re looking for a soft surface, carpet could be a good option for you. However, it will not be waterproof, can be easily stained, and harbor dust and allergens.
Learn more about vinyl flooring here:
We hope these tips were helpful! If you have any more questions or comments about flooring for a cabin, write them in the comments below!
Contact the Bestlaminate Flooring Experts today! Call us at 1-800-520-0961 or send us a quick message to get expert advice and answers.
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Hello Bob & Betsy,
Do you recommend a preferred form for the vinyl plank flooring to be used in an unheated space? I would like to use this for a barn floor (new construction over plywood subflooring, above grade) and wondered which of the options (i.e. floating, glue down, etc.) you thought would be best in such an application. Location is central Pennsylvania, so outside temperatures down to 0 F in winter and up to 90 F in summer.
Thanks,
Mike
Hi Mike. Flooring in unheated spaces can be tricky sometimes. However, you would be able to use either a glue down or nail down material. You would need to stay away from any floating floor in an unheated space though.
Hi. We are looking at installing an engineered hardwood in a sunporch that has some fluctuations in temperature. Is this a good idea
Hi Patsy! You would have to check with the manufacturer of the engineered hardwood to be sure. Typically we would not recommend using an engineered hardwood in a space that has temperature fluctuations.