Enduring Quality

From broadloom carpeting to high-quality hardwood, First Class Flooring offers the latest in coverings while always prioritizing long-term value.

By Julie Gedeon

Celebrating its 35th anniversary as a family-owned business, First Class Flooring has seen plenty of changes through the years. From its earliest days specializing in broadloom carpeting to its focus on quality hardwood, laminate and vinyl coverings over the past two decades, the Etobicoke flooring brand has seen trends come and go, new technologies emerge, and the GTA’s tastes evolve.

The one constant: an unwavering commitment to assessing each homeowner’s precise needs and relating the best options within every budget. “We always prioritize explaining to our clients what exactly they need for each space based on their planned uses for it, while also ensuring they get the look they want,” says general manager Robert Barnsley. 

Choices abound at the company’s 40,000-square-foot Etobicoke location with a 10,000-plus-square-foot designer gallery, which First Class Flooring prides itself on stocking with the latest innovations. “For instance, we now have water-based finishings with zero VOCs,” Barnsley notes. “And we use latex-based adhesives that are much better for people and the environment.”

 The expertise dates back well beyond the company’s 1980 opening. Its founder, Johnson Debra, applied his years of experience at a carpet factory to open the retail outlet, initially specializing in the broadloom carpeting that was popular at the time. 

Meanwhile, his son, Ralph, had spent 22 years working with other flooring companies by the time his father was ready to retire. “I had—and still have—a passion for hardwood flooring, so I made that our main focus,” he says. “Hardwood, laminate wood and vinyl have been most in demand over the past 15 years, but there are still times when a wall-to-wall carpeting works best.”

A room’s functionality is a key consideration. “High-traffic areas such as hallways usually benefit from durable hardwood or laminate,” Barnsley advises. “Most people are good at picking out something that goes with their decor, but some don’t consider how the space will be used or how much they want to maintain it.”

With more people making everyday use of their basements, the selection of proper flooring is essential. “Given the potential dampness, you want the warmth of a thicker laminate wood or vinyl with the proper underpadding,” Barnsley says. “You might even want to install a radiant heat system.” Engineered hardwood is a more luxurious option, but he doesn’t recommend it unless the concrete is properly sealed against possible water penetration. 

Pets should be another consideration. Laminate flooring offers a more scratch-resistant surface than hardwood or vinyl. “Textured flooring is also becoming more popular because it camouflages any damage better,” Barnsley says. “We also see more people avoiding the dark wood finishes that immediately show dust.”

 “We always prioritize explaining to our clients what exactly they need for each space based on their planned uses for it, while also ensuring they get the look they want.”

At the same time, bold colours are trending for added cottage flair. “We’re seeing more navy blue, forest green and dark grays as the contrast to a kitchen’s white or light cabinetry,” he says. 

Chevron or herringbone patterns for distinct areas, such as a foyer or dining room, have become increasingly popular for adding elegant design elements without breaking the bank.

No matter the preference, the First Class Flooring team is ready and able to make it happen in whatever way works best for homeowners. “We have some of the very best contractors with years of experience in flooring installation, as well as sanding and refinishing services,” Barnsley says. “Above all, we take great pride in completing each project at a good pace within budget.”