Introduction
If you own a rental property, you know how quickly flooring can take a beating. Between moving furniture, pet accidents, spills, and the wear of multiple tenants, floors in rentals need to be extra tough. At the same time, you want your space to look appealing — a stylish floor can help attract quality renters and even boost property value. The big question is: Which flooring gives you the best balance of durability, affordability, and good looks? Let’s break down the top flooring options for rental properties and see which ones Canadian experts recommend.
1. Carpet Tiles: Flexible and Budget-Friendly
Carpet tiles are a landlord’s secret weapon. Instead of installing wall-to-wall carpet, these come in squares that can be easily replaced if one gets stained or damaged. That means no more ripping up an entire room of carpet for one bad spot.
Pros:
- Inexpensive to install and replace.
- Provides warmth and sound insulation (great for apartments).
- Easy to mix and match for modern styles.
Cons:
- Not as durable as hard flooring in high-traffic areas.
- May show wear faster than vinyl or laminate.
👉 Tony’s Flooring lists carpet tiles among the most cost-effective flooring solutions for rentals, especially in bedrooms or basements where comfort matters.
2. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Durable & Waterproof
Luxury vinyl plank has become one of the most popular choices for rental properties across Canada. It mimics the look of hardwood but is water-resistant, durable, and budget-friendly.
👉 Ora Flooring & Stairs calls LVP the “smart all-rounder” for rentals, thanks to its resistance to scratches, dents, and moisture — perfect for kitchens and hallways.
👉 Flooring Canada highlights luxury vinyl tile (a similar option) as ideal for bathrooms and kitchens because it’s waterproof and scuff-resistant
Pros:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant.
- Waterproof options available — ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Wide variety of styles that mimic wood or stone.
Cons:
- Can feel colder and harder underfoot compared to carpet.
- Lower-quality versions may peel or warp over time.
3. Laminate: Affordable Hardwood Alternative
Laminate flooring gives the look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. It’s a strong contender for rentals because it resists scratches and is easy to clean.
👉 LV Hardwood Flooring (Toronto) recommends laminate for its affordable, elegant look, noting that it’s a great option when budgets are tight.
👉 Caledon Floors compares laminate with vinyl and hardwood, emphasizing that laminate is less water-resistant but still a solid budget choice for dry areas.
Pros:
- Cost-effective compared to hardwood.
- Resistant to scratches, making it renter-proof.
- Easy to install and replace planks if needed.
Cons:
- Not waterproof — moisture can cause swelling.
- Doesn’t add as much resale value as true hardwood.
4. Tile Flooring: Best for High-Moisture Areas
Tile is unbeatable in bathrooms, entryways, and kitchens. It’s water-resistant, long-lasting, and easy to clean — perfect for withstanding tenant turnover.
👉 Tony’s Flooring recommends ceramic and porcelain tile as excellent choices for wet areas in rentals because of their durability.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and waterproof.
- Adds a polished, high-end look.
- Resistant to stains and scratches.
Cons:
- Can feel cold and hard underfoot.
- Installation costs are higher than vinyl or laminate.
5. Engineered Hardwood: Higher-End Rental Appeal
For luxury rental units, engineered hardwood can be a worthwhile investment. It offers the timeless beauty of real wood but is more stable than traditional hardwood, making it better suited to fluctuating humidity.
👉 LV Hardwood Flooring lists engineered hardwood among top rental picks, especially for owners who want to attract premium tenants.
Pros:
- Adds long-term property value.
- More dimensionally stable than solid hardwood.
- Attractive, timeless look.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost.
- Can still scratch and dent more easily than vinyl or tile.
Quick Tips for Choosing Rental Flooring
- Think long-term: Spending a little more on durable flooring now can save you replacement costs later.
- Prioritize waterproof options for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
- Mix flooring types: Hard surfaces in main areas, carpet in bedrooms.
- Choose neutral colors to appeal to more renters.
- Invest in proper installation — a poorly installed floor wears out faster.
Conclusion
When it comes to rental properties, the right flooring can make a big difference in durability, maintenance costs, and renter satisfaction. Across Canadian flooring experts, the consensus is clear: luxury vinyl plank or tile is the best all-around choice for rentals thanks to its durability, water resistance, and style. Laminate is a reliable budget-friendly option, ceramic tile works best in wet areas, and engineered hardwood can elevate higher-end units.
At Curlys Carpet Repair, we’ve seen firsthand how the right flooring choice can extend property value and reduce stress for landlords. If you’re unsure about what works best for your rental, we’d be happy to offer advice and help keep your floors in great shape.
