There are a few things to keep in mind when considering a floor for your kitchen. Durability is definitely one of the most important aspects to a floor that is expected to have as much traffic as the kitchen. For the most part, you will be standing when in the kitchen so comfort is another important aspect to consider. Another important thing to consider is clean ability, since typically a lot of debris is spilled in the kitchen. Moisture resistance as well as stain resistance is vital to choosing the right floor for your lifestyle. Last but certainly not least is the style of the floor that appeals your eye. However you want to prioritize, there is a solution for you and your kitchen. Keep in mind that there is no perfect floor for a kitchen, so take note of all the considerations above and choose the best fit for you. Let's take a look at your options.
Hardwood
A great option for your kitchen floor is hardwood. Quality of finish as well as species of the wood should be very important aspects of your decision. Quality finish directly affects the day to day wear and tear. If you decide to choose an inferior finish it will result in traffic patterns and ultimately require you to get a refinish sooner rather than later. The harder the species of wood the less likely of dents or other structural damage their will be to your kitchen floor. Consider the beatings that a kitchen floor will take when deciding on the floor of your choice. Right now one of the more trendy choices is hand-scraped or distressed hardwoods. Not only do these hardwoods look great, but give a worn or beat up appearance so any damage done due to traffic will be less of an eye soar. One of the drawbacks of a hardwood floor is water, water and wood do not co-op well. If a spill is left for a period of time then most likely their will be damage, however if cleaned up in a timely manner hardwood will resist typical moisture. When it comes to cleaning, most hardwoods are easy to keep clean. Try to avoid floors with a large bevel to avoid more work for cleaning.
Top Three Hardwood Recommendations: 1) Indusparquet 2) Kahrs 3) Urban
Whether its sheet, plank, or vinyl tiles all of these are great choices for your kitchen. When it comes to moisture resistance, vinyl is your best option. Upgrading to a higher end vinyl is recommended because durability will be needed. Vinyl is a very comfortable choice for your kitchen. There are products with fiberglass backing which is an even better option for those of you with achy joints. A great alternative to tile or stone is Luxury Vinyl because it will not be as hard on your feet and will also have high durability ratings. These products simulate the look of real tile or stone without the disadvantages of hardness and clean ability. Many of the luxury vinyl tiles have the option of being installed without grout. Most people don't like the idea of cleaning grout so a luxury vinyl tile is a great option. Top Three Vinyl Recommendations: 1) Armstrong Alterna 2) Congoleum Duraceramic 3) Armstrong Luxe Plank
Laminate floors are an excellent choice for your kitchen floor, but before you pick one there are a few things to look at. Durability of a laminate floor is now measured by an AC Rating. An AC Rating of 3 or higher is recommended when choosing a laminate floor. Anything below 3 will work just fine, but will not last as long and you will notice wear patterns sooner rather than later. Due to most laminates being installed by the floating method, the floor will be easier on your feet. Floating installation has more give which is ideal for the kitchen where you will be on your feet a lot. With the possibility of drips, spills, and floods in the kitchen reaction to moisture must be considered. The core of the laminate will determine how the floor reacts to moisture. Be sure to select a laminate with an HDF core. Laminates are an easy clean which makes it a great option for your kitchen. Similar to hardwood, you probably want to avoid a product with a large bevel. Top Three Laminate Recommendations: 1) Quickstep Laminate 2) Armstrong Laminate 3) West Coast Laminate
Cork has become an increasingly popular choice because of a few factors. If you select a prefinished cork floor with a quality finish then you will get the durability aspect for your kitchen. Most cork floors are low maintenance when it comes to keeping the floor clean. Durability and low maintenance are vital to picking your floor, but the most intriguing aspect of a cork floor is comfort. With the kitchen being where you will spend a lot of time on your feet, cork flooring will provide comfort for those achy joints. Cork is considered to be the most comfortable hard surface floor on the market. Cork Recommendations: 1) Wicanders
Now that you are aware of the options for a kitchen floor its time to choose a category that best suits you. Try to pick one type of floor then select a product using the tips that have been previously mentioned. Kitchens get a lot of traffic and abuse, so if there is a room that could use an upgrade in your home this is the one.
About the Author
Donnie Gupton - certified flooring professional who has been in the business for 9 years teaching people how to select the best floors to fit their lifestyle. He runs a family owned business that has been up and running since 1975. Flooring Company Kent - Call 01795 520260 For Flooring Advice
