Choosing Flooring for Seasonal Homes or Cottages in Ontario
Ontario’s seasonal homes and cottages offer a much-needed escape—from city noise, daily stress, and the grind of modern life. Whether your retreat is nestled in Muskoka, along the shores of Georgian Bay, or tucked in the Kawarthas, choosing the right flooring is essential to creating a space that’s both beautiful and built to last.
Cottage flooring needs to handle more than just aesthetics. It must last fluctuating temperatures, varying humidity levels, muddy boots, sandy feet, and possibly months of being unoccupied during the off-season. At The Floor Shop, we’ve helped countless Ontario cottage owners choose the right flooring materials that match both their lifestyle and the unique demands of seasonal living.
In this guide, we’ll break down what to consider when selecting flooring for a seasonal property and which options make the most sense for long-term durability, low maintenance, and cozy style.
Understanding the Challenges of Cottage Flooring
Before choosing a material, it’s important to understand what makes seasonal homes different from primary residences. Unlike your city home, your cottage may face:
- Extreme temperature shifts: If unheated during winter, your cottage may see wide swings between freezing and warm temperatures.
- High humidity: Especially in lakefront or forested settings, seasonal homes tend to have higher humidity levels.
- Limited climate control: Without central HVAC or dehumidifiers running year-round, moisture can build up.
- Heavy foot traffic: Guests, pets, gear, and outdoor elements like sand or pine needles come through the door daily.
- Periods of vacancy: Many cottages sit closed for weeks or months, making moisture control and pest resistance critical.
All of these factors mean your flooring must be more than stylish—it has to be resilient.
Top Factors to Consider
When shopping for cottage flooring, focus on these key characteristics:
1. Moisture Resistance
Ontario weather means wet shoes, snowy boots, and humid summers. Choose flooring that can handle moisture without warping, buckling, or growing mold.
2. Dimensional Stability
Look for materials that remain stable in fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels. Expansion and contraction can damage traditional hardwoods or poorly sealed floors.
3. Durability
Cottages are high-traffic spaces, often shared with friends, family, and pets. Pick a floor that can take a beating without showing wear.
4. Low Maintenance
You’re there to relax, not fuss over cleaning or repairs. Low-maintenance flooring saves time and effort during each stay.
5. Style & Comfort
Just because it’s rugged doesn’t mean it has to look or feel industrial. Today’s cottage-friendly flooring options come in warm, cozy, and stylish finishes that enhance your retreat.
Best Flooring Options for Seasonal Ontario Homes
#1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Why it’s great for cottages:
- 100% waterproof
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
- Resists mold, mildew, and moisture
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Mimics wood and stone beautifully
LVP is a top choice for Ontario cottage owners who want the look of wood without the vulnerability. It can be installed in basements, kitchens, bathrooms, and main living areas—and it stands up to muddy boots and pet paws with ease. Plus, it’s cost-effective, making it ideal for larger spaces.
Pro tip: Choose vinyl with an attached underlayment for added insulation and sound absorption.
#2. Engineered Hardwood
Why it works:
- More stable than solid hardwood
- Real wood surface layer adds warmth and beauty
- Available in rustic, modern, and natural styles
While solid hardwood is often too sensitive to cottage conditions, engineered hardwood offers better stability. Its layered construction helps it resist warping from moisture and temperature swings, especially when installed properly. It’s a great choice for main living areas where you want a cozy, authentic feel.
Note: Engineered hardwood should only be installed in cottages that stay above freezing during the winter or have consistent climate control.
#3. Laminate (Waterproof Options)
Why it’s cottage-ready:
- Highly durable and scratch-resistant
- Budget-friendly with realistic wood looks
- Easy click-lock installation
- Some products now offer waterproof technology
Waterproof laminate has come a long way, offering excellent durability for seasonal properties—especially those with kids and pets. It’s available in a wide variety of colors and styles, including weathered wood tones that complement cottage decor. For added peace of mind, use in areas that are not prone to standing water or high humidity.
#4. Cork Flooring
Why it’s unique:
- Soft and comfortable underfoot
- Naturally antimicrobial and resistant to mold
- Provides thermal and acoustic insulation
Cork is an eco-friendly, sustainable flooring option that’s growing in popularity for cottages. It’s warm, cozy, and naturally repels insects, dust, and allergens. With proper sealing, cork can handle moderate moisture and humidity—making it great for bedrooms and living areas.
Note: Like engineered wood, cork performs best in cottages that maintain moderate temperatures year-round.
Flooring to Avoid in Seasonal Properties
- Solid Hardwood: Susceptible to expansion, warping, and gapping in unheated or humid environments.
- Carpet: Traps moisture, dust, and odors; difficult to keep clean in sandy or damp cottages.
- Cheap Laminate: If not rated as waterproof, it can swell or delaminate with moisture exposure.
Additional Tips for Cottage Flooring Success
Tip 1. Use Area Rugs Strategically
Protect high-traffic zones like entrances and kitchen workspaces with washable rugs. They help catch debris and minimize wear.
Tip 2. Install Proper Underlayment
For floating floors, a high-quality underlay provides moisture protection, insulation, and sound reduction—especially helpful in two-story cottages or cabins.
Tip 3. Consider Colour and Finish
Go for low-gloss, matte, or textured finishes that hide dirt and scratches. Earth tones, grays, and weathered wood tones are timeless choices that complement a rustic cottage aesthetic.
Tip 4. Think About Year-Round Access
If you plan to visit your cottage in winter, choose flooring that tolerates snow and ice. If it stays closed all season, moisture resistance becomes even more critical.
Tip 5. Consult Professionals
Every cottage is different. Some sit on concrete slabs, others on pier foundations, and many have uneven subfloors. Professional advice ensures the best product and installation method for your unique space.
Why Choose The Floor Shop for Your Ontario Cottage?
At The Floor Shop, we’ve been helping homeowners in Toronto and across Ontario choose the right flooring for over 30 years. Our team understands the challenges of seasonal properties and offers:
- A wide selection of waterproof, stable, and low-maintenance floors.
- Expert guidance tailored to your cottage conditions.
- Professional installation for long-lasting results.
- Local expertise in climate, subfloor types, and style trends.
Ready to Upgrade Your Cottage Flooring?
Visit The Floor Shop at one of our Toronto showrooms or contact us for a consultation. We’ll help you choose the right flooring for your Ontario cottage—so your escape stays beautiful, season after season.
