Best Flooring Types in Vancouver, BC: Tile, Hardwood, Carpet Tile & Vinyl Plank
Choosing flooring in Vancouver is about more than looks—humidity, wet footwear, condo sound rules, and subfloor conditions all affect long-term performance. This guide compares the most common flooring types and links you to the right install services for each.
Choosing the Best Flooring for Your Home or Business
The “best” option depends on where it’s installed and how the subfloor is prepared. Many successful Vancouver projects use tile in wet zones and a comfort-forward surface (vinyl or hardwood) through living spaces.
In this guide, we’ll cover
- Pros & cons of each flooring type
- Best flooring choices by room and building type
- Cost ranges and durability considerations
- A practical checklist to decide confidently
Start with the right install service
1) Tile Flooring — Durable & Waterproof
Tile is a top choice for bathrooms, entries, and kitchens because it handles moisture and cleaning extremely well—when installed with correct prep and detailing.
Best for
- Bathrooms, showers, laundry rooms
- Kitchens, entryways, mudrooms
- Commercial spaces with frequent cleaning
Performance snapshot
- Durability: High
- Moisture: Excellent with waterproofing
- Maintenance: Low
- Lifespan: 20+ years
Typical installed cost: $5 – $20 per sq. ft. (varies by tile selection, layout complexity, and subfloor prep).
If tile is part of your renovation, review our full service page: Tile Installation Vancouver.
2) Hardwood Flooring — Classic & Timeless
Hardwood delivers warmth and long-term value, but it performs best in dry living areas and bedrooms—not wet bathrooms. Product selection and acclimation matter in Vancouver’s humidity swings.
Best for
- Living rooms and bedrooms
- Offices and higher-end renovations
- Homes where warmth and character matter
Performance snapshot
- Durability: Medium (refinishable)
- Moisture: Moderate (avoid wet zones)
- Maintenance: Medium
- Lifespan: 30+ years with care
Typical installed cost: $8 – $25 per sq. ft. (species, grade, and install method matter).
Explore options and professional installation standards here: Hardwood Floor Installation.
3) Carpet Tile — Comfortable & Sound-Friendly
Carpet tile is popular in offices and commercial environments because it’s modular and replaceable. It also works well in quieter zones when moisture exposure is low.
Best for
- Offices, hotels, commercial corridors
- Bedrooms and quiet areas
- Spaces where acoustic comfort matters
Performance snapshot
- Durability: High (replaceable tiles)
- Moisture: Low to moderate
- Maintenance: Low
- Lifespan: 10–20 years
Typical installed cost: $3 – $10 per sq. ft. (depends on traffic rating + backing).
Pro tip: modular tiles can be swapped if damaged, which is ideal for high-use commercial spaces.
4) Vinyl Plank Flooring — Affordable & Waterproof Options
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is one of the most practical choices for Vancouver condos, rentals, and busy homes. The “premium feel” comes from correct leveling and underlay selection—not just the plank brand.
Best for
- Condos (comfort + sound control)
- Living areas, bedrooms, rentals
- Kitchens and basements (product-dependent)
Performance snapshot
- Durability: High (varies by wear layer)
- Moisture: Excellent (product-dependent)
- Maintenance: Low
- Lifespan: 15–25 years
Typical installed cost: $2 – $10 per sq. ft. (product tier + prep affect total).
See full service details here: Vinyl Plank Installation (Lower Mainland).
5) Comparing Flooring Costs & Durability
These are general installed ranges. Exact pricing depends on demo, leveling, transitions, product tier, and access (condo vs house).
| Flooring Type | Durability | Maintenance | Typical Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tile Flooring | ★★★★★ | Low | $5 – $20 / sq. ft. |
| Hardwood Flooring | ★★★★☆ | Medium | $8 – $25 / sq. ft. |
| Carpet Tile | ★★★★☆ | Low | $3 – $10 / sq. ft. |
| Vinyl Plank (LVP) | ★★★★★ | Low | $2 – $10 / sq. ft. |
Best mix for most Vancouver homes: tile in bathrooms/entries + vinyl or hardwood through living spaces (comfort + continuity).
6) How to Choose the Right Flooring for Your Space
- Durability: high-traffic zones perform best with tile or quality vinyl plank.
- Moisture: bathrooms/entries need waterproof systems + correct detailing.
- Maintenance: tile/vinyl are simple; hardwood can need more care over time.
- Budget: vinyl is typically most cost-effective; hardwood is a longer-term investment.
- Comfort: vinyl is warmer/quieter; tile feels premium (best with radiant heat).
If you’re comparing services directly, start here: Tile Installation, Vinyl Plank Installation, and Hardwood Installation.
7) Get a Flooring Quote (Vancouver + Lower Mainland)
If you want fast, accurate pricing, send your room list, approximate square footage, and a few photos. We’ll confirm the best material for each space and provide a clear install plan.