Comparing Kitchen Flooring Options

Comparing kitchen flooring options can be overwhelming. The kitchen is usually the room in the house with the highest traffic. In addition to foot traffic, kitchen floors face spills, drips, drops, and more. A kitchen floor needs to look stylish while handling plenty of wear and tear. When comparing kitchen flooring options, you will need to balance style, function, and comfort.

Considerations in Kitchen Flooring Options

Comparing kitchen flooring options means focusing on four main considerations:

• Cost – there is a wide range. Homeowners who are replacing kitchen flooring need to have a good idea of their budget before making a material decision.
• Style – many different materials are able to fit different styles, so you can often get the look you want regardless of what your design style is in the rest of the house.
• Durability – some kitchen flooring options will be able to handle more than others. If you have kids, pets, high traffic, or anything else that will put your kitchen floor to the test, consider how durable each material is.
• Maintenance – Some materials are much easier to keep clean. Certain materials require nothing more than basic cleaning, while others will require much more upkeep. Be honest with yourself about what you can handle.

Hardwood and Bamboo

Traditional hardwood floors are both durable and stylish, but when it comes to considering hardwood as one of your kitchen flooring options, you may want to think about it. Hardwood has limitations in areas prone to moisture, and that includes kitchens. Sealers and finishes can make a difference, but you will notice hardwood changing and staining over time. Bamboo is actually harder than traditional hardwood and more resistant to water damage, making it very popular for kitchens. The drawback to bamboo is that it is more expensive than traditional hardwood.

Ceramic and Stone Tile

Ceramic tile is made from natural clay that is fired under heat, while stone is rock, such as marble, granite, slate, limestone, travertine, and sandstone. Ceramic tile is hard and resistant to breakage, while natural stone will depend on the stone used. Slate and granite can last for decades, while marble may degrade more quickly. Ceramic tiles are available in numerous designs and are impervious to water and stains. Natural stone is porous and therefore susceptible to water staining. A sealer can protect the stone from these issues, although it will need to be applied regularly.

Concrete

Concrete can be an inexpensive and durable option for kitchen floors, particularly in modern kitchens. A concrete slab can be polished, stained, and treated to make it stylish and attractive. However, concrete floors can be cold and hard, and, if you think you may be listing your home to sell, can be a drawback for potential buyers.

Vinyl

Vinyl is one of the most versatile kitchen flooring options. It is easy to clean, impervious to stains, damage and water, and very affordable. Vinyl is usually a good choice for high traffic kitchens, although it will probably need to be replaced every ten years or so. While vinyl was not traditionally considered an upscale material, modern vinyl, often referred to as LVF (luxury vinyl flooring) can mimic other materials and is extremely high-quality.

Linoleum

Linoleum was once considered an old-fashioned choice, but it is making a comeback. It is affordable, environmentally friendly, easy to clean, and can last for years. Linoleum is available in many styles and can work with many décor options. The drawback to linoleum is that it is very susceptible to moisture damage. Every day moisture will not be a problem, but a flood from a broken appliance or pipe will destroy the floor. Low quality linoleum may also begin to curl in humidity.

When you are talking to a professional about your kitchen flooring options, let them know your budget, your style, and your durability and maintenance concerns. A kitchen flooring expert can show you what is available while working with your budget to find you the right floor for your family. Contact All-Nu Construction to set up an appointment to discuss the next renovation project on your list.