Kitchen floors ideas
22 stylish, practical kitchen floors |
(Image credit: Adam Carter Photo)
The kitchen floor is likely to be one of the largest surface areas in your home, so kitchen flooring ideas always deserve some careful thought and attention.
When planning your kitchen ideas, your kitchen flooring needs to perform on many levels – durability, safety and ease of cleaning – and of course, it must look great too, so give it as much consideration as your cabinetry.
Flooring ideas should always work together with the rest of the room, so a great place to start in the kitchen is taking the look and material of your units into consideration when picking flooring.
Kitchen flooring ideas
Materials such as durable laminate and matte porcelain will look great in modern kitchens, while natural stone tiles and warm wood suit traditional designs. A popular, contemporary flooring material is polished concrete, which gives a chic, industrial edge.
Budget carefully to include all fitting costs and extra expenses for underlays, fixatives and grouts. If you’re hoping to lay underfloor heating, do check it is compatible with your flooring before you buy.
There is a wealth of kitchen flooring ideas to choose from which makes knowing how to choose the best kitchen floor somewhat tricky, so let us help you narrow it down with expert advice, our top materials, styles, finishes and designs.
1. Choose dark flooring for a contemporary look
(Image credit: James Merrell)
Dark flooring does not need to make a space feel enclosed or uninviting - it can actually achieve quite the opposite effect. When paired with the correct complementary shades, black flooring can make your kitchen space feel sophisticated and contemporary, and is great for coordinating with pretty much any other color out there.
In this modern kitchen, the soft black parquet tiles form an elegant, textured design, with the white paint used on the walls making the room feel light and bright. Further complemented with natural colors and textures, the overall space feels warm and inviting.
2. Opt for luxurious marble flooring
(Image credit: Ti Archive)
Timeless, durable and utterly beautifully, choosing marble flooring can turn your kitchen into a truly show-stopping space.
From large format-tiles to marble vinyl effects, there are a range of styles and options that can integrate into your kitchen. Whether you complement the marble used on your countertops, or choose a contrasting marble design for added impact, the enduring material can elegantly elevate your kitchen design.
Marble flooring can also be a great option for a smaller kitchen space, George Miller, Designer at Neptune states, ‘choosing flooring for a smaller space, shouldn’t feel limiting, in fact, with a smaller area to cover, you can afford to invest in quality materials that will make a statement and stand the test of time’.
3. Add a rug for inviting comfort
(Image credit: Simon Brown)
Rugs are not typically associated with a kitchen space, however, kitchen rug ideas can make your kitchen more inviting and cozy with added texture.
Perfect for large, open-plan kitchen designs, a rug can make the space feel more connected and unified, as well as adding warmth and softness to hard floors. Adding a rug to your kitchen space is also a simple way to add color and character to the room.
The rug in this kitchen complements the striking blue cabinets and sits perfectly beneath the dark wooden table, grounding the table to the space whilst effortlessly connecting it to the rest of the room.
4. Create a light and airy feel with white flooring
(Image credit: David Giles)
'Using white flooring in your kitchen is a great way to make the space feel bigger and brighter - ideal for kitchen spaces that are on the smaller side,' says Homes & Gardens' Editorial Director Sarah Spiteri.
Whether you choose white painted floorboards, or opt for white stone or vinyl, white flooring can create a beautifully relaxed, calming atmosphere - perfect for a busy, high-traffic area such as a kitchen.
The white floorboards in this kitchen beautifully complement the white painted walls, emphasizing the light and space in the room. The blue painted kitchen units create an elegant contrast, adding character and balance to the space.
5. Keep it traditional with terracotta
(Image credit: Adam Carter Photo)
Using traditional terracotta tiles will always create a warming, textured scheme that beautifully echoes designs and materials of the past.
Working well in both period and modern homes, this ceramic tile design is a popular choice for kitchen tile ideas, often due to its durability and timeless appeal.
Great for creating a country, farmhouse kitchen style, terracotta tiles add a timeless, earthy texture to a space.
6. Invest in real wood kitchen flooring
(Image credit: Kersaint-Cobb)
If it's warmth and character you want, wood kitchen flooring is a great buy.
Jenna Kane, Product Development at Kersaint Cobb says:
'As a particular busy area of the home, the flooring you select for your kitchen needs to fulfil a number of requirements.
Wood is a sturdy and attractive solution with the added benefit of wiping stains clean if you are making a particular messy recipe!
'Wood flooring can be a striking focal point in any kitchen design and the natural grain can add texture and interest to the space. You can opt to select timber flooring that matches wood featured on cabinetry or even smaller accessories and shelving.
Is wood flooring suitable for kitchens? 'You must always bear in mind that wood is a natural material and can be scratched and dented if too many items are dropped on it or damaged if too much liquid is spilt. Therefore look at your home and who will be using the kitchen to select the option which is right for you,' concludes Jenna Kane.
7. Choose a herringbone wood kitchen flooring for an elegant look
(Image credit: Future)
With so much choice available in terms of both material and pattern, it can be daunting to find the right kitchen flooring ideas when planning a kitchen.
Herringbone styles are currently very popular, either in ceramic or wood, and they’re an ideal way of introducing subtle yet beautiful pattern and a welcome sense of texture into even the simplest kitchen flooring, instantly making it a focal point.
There has been an increase in the popularity of patterned wood floors. Larger herringbone pieces often look more contemporary. If it’s for an open plan kitchen, a distressed chevron or herringbone floor will stand up well to general wear and tear.
Choose a delicate parquet if you want to give a nod to a feature floor without being too over the top. Classic parquet flooring can be laid as individual blocks, or the effect can be copied by engineered wood planks, which are easier to fit.
'We would always recommend you seek professional guidance to ensure the flooring is fitted and maintained correctly as moisture can be an issue in this environment, especially with parquet as this is a very skilled install and not DIY,' continues Jenna Kane.
8. Pick real wood for warmth
(Image credit: Future/Darren Chung)
Warm and welcoming underfoot, solid wood kitchen flooring will need careful treating and maintenance to make sure it doesn’t warp, as it is less resistant to water damage than engineered wood (a thin layer of wood veneer).
However, if your scheme is open plan, you could run the same floor throughout the space to give a visual link in different zones – dining, cooking and lounging, for instance.
‘Engineered timber is better in kitchens than solid wood, as the layered construction of the boards creates a very strong and stable surface. This is particularly important if you are installing underfloor heating or a cast iron cooker,' says Peter Keane, director of The Natural Wood Floor Company .
9. Combine kitchen flooring materials to complement cabinetry
(Image credit: Nato Welton)
'Anyone who has ever designed a kitchen will know that it's vital to choose kitchen cabinetry at the same time as kitchen flooring ideas,' says Homes & Gardens' Editor in Chief Lucy Searle.
'It makes sense that kitchen cabinets come first, but choosing the flooring should be the next big decision – ideally taken hand-in-hand with picking out countertops. My best advice, if you don't have an experienced interior decorator choosing for you, is to bring a sample of the cabinetry you have chosen into the kitchen, along with samples of flooring and countertops.
'Hold the cabinetry sample vertically so that the light hits it at exactly the angle it would when installed, then sit the kitchen flooring and countertop samples against it, but horizontally so that, again, the light hits it at the right angle. Observe the different tones it takes on in daylight and under artificial light – only then can you really ensure you have chosen well.'
10. Lay wood-look laminate or vinyl for a practical kitchen flooring option
(Image credit: Amtico)
If you are remodelling a kitchen in a rental property, or need a temporary solution, both luxury vinyl kitchen flooring ideas and laminate (wood particleboard with sealed and protected printed paper over the top), which is laid in planks that fit together for easy installation, are good-looking alternatives to real wood and stone.
Make sure you choose a laminate that is suitable for kitchen flooring use, as some are not suitable in damp environments.
11. Go for a practical wood-effect porcelain tile
(Image credit: Domus)
'Timber-effect plank-shaped porcelain tiles are also popular, not least because they introduce a sense of character and movement,' says Jules Archard, showrooms manager of Domus .
'Previously, their totally flat printed surface used to give away the fact that the planks were not made of real wood, but now a woodgrain is pressed into the surface of the tile before it is printed, so their texture is realistic too.'
12. Source reclaimed wood for a rustic, country look
(Image credit: deVOL)
Reclaimed wood floors are not only full of charm, character and history, but buying anything salvaged is environmentally responsible and spot-on for today's recycling trend.
Whether it's oak beams recovered from old American barns or Burmese teak parquet reclaimed from a remodelled school, salvaged boards bear the unique marks of time, much like a slice of history at home.
'You can't get more green than buying reclaimed timber flooring,' says Nick Newman of celebrated British salvage specialists Lassco .
'It is environmentally responsible and will have been sourced relatively locally, had the nails removed by hand by us, then sorted and stacked. Reuse reduces landfill while curbing the need to plunder the earth's resources. Salvage generally has not travelled very far, so it bears a comparatively tiny carbon footprint.'
13. Be on trend with a large format kitchen floor tile
(Image credit: Quorn Stone)
If you're looking for kitchen floor tile ideas, you might wonder what's on trend.
'At the moment, we find customers are leaning towards larger tile sizes as often minimizing the number of grout joints is a priority,' comments Joshua Fernandez at Quorn Stone .
'In terms of kitchen trends, we always advise customers to steer clear and go for a classic style in the kitchen area. Purchasing a stone flooring or porcelain floor is an investment for the home and one that often takes careful consideration – our advice is to always go neutral in your chosen floor covering for ground floor spaces and instead inject colour through paint colors and accessories.
A lick of paint is far easier to change in years to come than a different floor.'
14. Install a matte finish stone for a relaxed look
(Image credit: Future/ Paul Massey)
'We are seeing a move towards kitchen flooring ideas that create a very relaxed feel with a reassuring warmth, and soft, matte limestone-effect porcelain tiles fit the bill well,' says Jules Archard of Domus.
'This finish is also easier to keep clean than polished or very textured tiles. Consider large format tiles, such as 1.2 x 2.4m, if you want to create a sense of scale and drama, even with a neutral tile.'
15. Choose natural materials for an elegant look
(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)
Natural stones like marble and limestone can create a timeless look, like in the elegant white kitchen above.
However, Jules Archard adds: 'If you prefer to use a real stone, such as limestone, for its natural beauty, you do need to embrace the fact it is porous and may stain and weather over time, requiring regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.
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16. Pick terrazzo for contemporary kitchen flooring ideas
(Image credit: Ofelia)
'Porcelain tiles are by far and away the most popular material these days, because they are robust, non-porous, highly stain and scratch resistant and work well with underfloor heating, and because they come in such a huge variety of designs, colors and formats,' says Jules Archand.
'Stone-, wood-, concrete- and terrazzo-effect porcelain tiles score highly; it’s crazy how faithful some of the reproductions are.'
Layering in kitchen rug ideas is a great way to add warmth and softness underfoot, helps with acoustics and brings extra texture and pattern to a space.
(Image credit: Domus)
If you want the soft powdery colors and pattern of encaustic (concrete) tiles without the maintenance requirements, consider an encaustic-look porcelain, such as Puzzle from Domus (above).
Or create a bespoke floor by combining shapes: it is amazing how many different kitchen floor tile ideas and designs you can create with a triangular format in a range of colors.
18. Find the right stone kitchen flooring
(Image credit: David Cleveland)
Stone kitchen flooring choices include natural stone, man-made ceramic, terracotta and porcelain. All are hardwearing and easy to clean, with porcelain being the most hardwearing of all due to its non-porous, scratch resistant properties.
For kitchen flooring ideas with individual character and natural beauty, look no further than natural stone: no two tiles will ever be identical, so your kitchen flooring will be unique.
Stone offers a classic and luxurious look and tends to improve as it acquires the ‘patina’ of age. Smooth marbles and honed limestones are a sophisticated and smart choice, or choose a weathered flagstone that sits comfortably in a country kitchen.
Make sure your tiles are treated before laying to avoid staining.
19. Add a pop of color with kitchen flooring ideas
(Image credit: Future/Jon Day)
We’re so accustomed to standard tiles that it is often easy to forget that the variety in size and manufacturing processes gives rise to a huge number of design possibilities.
Kitchen flooring ideas are a beautiful way to experiment with bold, distinctive pattern choices, especially if you choose to keep the rest of your kitchen color scheme neutral.
'We’ve found that tiles of this nature were commonly used in smaller spaces, such as shower enclosures, cloakrooms and kitchen backsplashes, but as we’ve grown to know and love playful patterns, we’re branching out to using them in large kitchens and open plan spaces,' says Katy Harris of Verona .
20. Pick concrete kitchen flooring ideas for an industrial flavor
(Image credit: Polished concrete in a kitchen setting, design by Main Kitchen Company)
Far from being ordinary construction materials, the raw unfinished beauty of plaster and concrete find a very stylish home in kitchen flooring ideas. In their exposed, uncovered state, both plaster and concrete have a bold, utilitarian quality, and an almost brutal sophistication.
Concrete, in particular, is a hardwearing and versatile material that can be cast into shapes and slabs, or poured, smoothed and polished, making it suitable for floors, countertops and even part of the kitchen itself if it’s an industrial look you are after.
While polished concrete requires specialist installation, it can last a lifetime and requires minimal maintenance. It is wise to install a heating system as your concrete flooring goes in, otherwise it can feel quite cold underfoot – and retrofitting can be a costly and disruptive task. You may also want to add a large cozy rug to soften up the space and help absorb sound and prevent unwanted echoing throughout your property.
21. Be bold with pattern for a lively, fun space
(Image credit: Future/Simon Brown)
Love a dramatic scheme? Bold geometrics and exotic Moroccan designs are particularly contemporary and versatile kitchen flooring ideas, as they have a timeless appeal that means that they’re equally at home in both modern and traditional kitchens.
22. Choose a cottage-look tile
(Image credit: Future/Simon Bevan)
In small kitchens, 'keep it simple and don’t use too many different tile formats, colors and finishes,' advises Dorothee Junkin of Dorothee Junkin Design Studio .
'Less is more when it comes to bold kitchen flooring, so use pattern selectively. It loses its effect when there is too much of it or when there are other patterns competing for attention.
'Try a classic diagonal checkerboard or a very defined and crisp geometric, so that the eye can catch the defining principle of the pattern with just one glance.'
What is the best flooring for a kitchen?
Natural stone is arguably the best kitchen flooring. It should last forever and acquire a lovely patina over time, but it can be cold and unwelcoming underfoot, so ensure you couple it with underfloor heating and rugs.
Wood planks are a timeless classic but can be expensive and need regular after-care, while tiled floors can be cold and unforgiving underfoot (underfloor heating will help).
If you have an open plan kitchen living room, you may want to use contrasting floor materials to define zones, or else use the same floor throughout for a fluid, seamless space (a good option for small kitchen layouts).
What is the most durable kitchen flooring?
Again, natural stone is the most durable kitchen flooring, closely followed by porcelain tile – if you are trying to balance kitchen flooring costs, the latter will give you good durability at a lower price.
All kitchen flooring ideas need to be tough, long-lasting and hardwearing, so consider comfort, durability and maintenance issues as well as pattern, finish and looks.
It is always better to get your floor laid by a professional, whichever type of material you choose; they can advise on substrate, quantities and any special finishes or treatments that will extend the life of your kitchen flooring.
Limestone, slate, granite, sandstone and travertine (a limestone/marble mix) come in many sizes, formats and finishes depending on the color and finish you want. Not all stones are equally durable though, so ensure your choice is sealed against splashes and stains.
What is the easiest kitchen flooring to keep clean?
Single sheet kitchen flooring ideas are easiest to keep clean – poured rubber, concrete and vinyl sheet are all really resilient to dirt, scratches, chips or stains.
However, all can be damaged if not swept regularly, as constant treading in of small stones or grit can eventually mark the surface. A quick mop with a general cleaning solution will finish the task.
Polished concrete will need resealing every three to nine months, but other than that you can treat it like any other durable floor and sweep and mop it to keep it clean.
Stone floors are tough, won't harbour dust and are easy to maintain with a quick vacuum and mop with a mild detergent, although pitted tiles and grout lines will attract dirt.
Laminate is durable, but needs a good vacuuming (with a hard floor attachment) before being cleaned. Use a general floor cleaner diluted in warm water, but as you would with wood, make sure no pools of water sit on the floor as you clean – a damp wipe with the mop is perfect.
Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world.
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Best Kitchen Flooring Ideas - Types of Kitchen Floors
Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
It's a heavily trafficked room, so it needs a floor to match.
By Stefanie Waldek and Mary Elizabeth Andriotis
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Renovating a kitchen is hard (and typically very expensive) work, so, you'll want to make the best design decisions for your space before investing your time and money.
When it comes to flooring, there are quite a few options to suit different tastes and budgets. One of the most important things to consider is durability, as kitchens are high-traffic rooms that need to handle a bit of wear and tear—and, of course, food stains. Below, peruse our primer on the best types of kitchen flooring before you renovate yours.
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Concrete
If you’re going for an industrial style, concrete is a great option for kitchen floors. It’s low-maintenance and durable, but it can be difficult to install. You’ll have to work with an engineer to make sure your house can support the weight of a concrete floor.
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Ceramic Tile
With perhaps the widest variety of styles of all the flooring materials, ceramic tiles can be customized to fit any space. They’re popular in kitchens for their durability, but like stone tiles, they’re hard underfoot. Grout lines are also a major concern, as they can get dirty easily.
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Hardwood
Hardwood flooring is an ever-popular choice for kitchens, as it comes in a range of colors to suit your aesthetic. It feels a bit softer underfoot than tilework, and it can be refinished if it becomes slightly worn. The only downside is it can be expensive, depending on the type of wood.
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Cork
You might be more familiar with corks as a stopper in your wine bottle or as a push-pin board, but the eco-friendly material can also be used as flooring. It’s particularly great for kitchens, as it provides a comfortable, cushion-like feel underfoot. Cork needs to be finished to as to protect it from spills, and like hardwood, it can be refinished if it needs to be spruced up.
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Bamboo
As with cork, bamboo is a renewable resource, so it can be used as an eco-friendly flooring choice. Though it’s actually a grass, bamboo functions like hardwood in terms of flooring.
While it is susceptible to scratches, it can be refinished.
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Urban Outfitters
Vinyl
$24 AT URBAN OUTFITTERS
Like laminate, vinyl is a reasonably priced synthetic flooring material that’s water-resistant and durable. It not only comes in numerous styles, but it also takes two forms: sheet vinyl, which is rolled onto floors in large sheets, and vinyl tile, which can imitate ceramic.
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Stone Tile
$15 AT TILESHOP.COM
Stone is one of the most elegant materials for kitchen floors, and it often comes with a price to match. But there’s a vast range of stones that come at different price points, from slate to limestone to marble. As a naturally durable material, it’s a great fit for kitchens, though it is a bit harder underfoot than synthetic materials and hardwood.
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Terra Cotta Tile
Though terra cotta is technically a ceramic material, the earthenware is made from a reddish clay that gives it its signature hue, making it stand out from its cousins.
Color variations can range from beige to charcoal. When considering terra cotta tile for your kitchen, be sure to pick a high-density material, as low-density ones are porous and susceptible to staining and water damage.
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Linoleum
Though the idea of linoleum might conjure visions of your grandma’s retro kitchen, the flooring material has been picking up in popularity. Unlike its brethren vinyl, linoleum is actually made from natural materials and is quite eco-friendly. It provides a springiness that makes standing on it quite comfortable, but it can get dented and discolored over time.
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Laminate
$12 AT LLFLOORING.COM
Laminate is an affordable alternative to hardwood: it’s a synthetic flooring made of layers of resin and fiberboard that comes in a variety of styles, often mimicking wood or ceramic. While the material does have a more superficial feel than hardwood, it’s highly durable and is easy to install on your own.
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Terrazzo
$11 AT TILESHOP.COM
Terrazzo flooring is a timeless composite material that's either poured in place or precast, which can be used for both floors and walls. It's typically made of fragments of quartz, granite, glass, and marble, combined with cement or polymeric.
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Mosaic
Now 51% off
$21 AT MARBLEONLINE.COM
If you're into a bit more pizzazz when it comes to design, look no further than mosaic flooring. This creation originated in Ancient Rome and typically includes colored stone, glass, or ceramic tiles, all of which are put together by plaster.
Genius Design Lessons From a Design Showhouse
Stefanie Waldek Contributing Writer Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel.
Mary Elizabeth Andriotis Associate Editor Mary Elizabeth Andriotis is House Beautiful's Associate Editor, where she covers historic homes, entertainment, culture, and design.
Which floor is better to make in the kitchen: choose the material
The choice of floor coverings is wide: tested for decades or recently appeared materials. Each of them has its own disadvantages and advantages. We've put together a variety of finishes. Let's characterize each one in detail to make it easier to figure out which floor is better to make in the kitchen.
Listed all the materials in a short video
How to lay the floor in the kitchen
What should be the flooring
Six options for the kitchen floor
— Tile
– Porcelain stoneware
— Laminate
— PVC
— Tree
— Self-levelling floors
Short summary
As much as one would like to choose a cladding only for its appearance, one must take into account that the kitchen is a “hard” environment. Food is prepared here, so temperature drops, steam and high humidity are not uncommon. It is undesirable that this negatively affects the condition of the coating.
Sometimes the food burns or initially has a strong odor that can be absorbed into the pores of the finish. nine0003
During cooking, liquids may spill or food may fall on the surface: greasy or colored stains will remain, which should be easily removed. Even spilled water can ruin the wrong finish. Heavy and sharp objects also often fall on the kitchen floor. Dishes fall from time to time. In order for it to remain intact, there must be a soft finish on the floor, on hard glass or porcelain will scatter into small crumbs.
And one more very important point. The finish should be easy to clean and withstand multiple cleanings. In the kitchen, stains and dirt can be very serious here. Therefore, not only soft soap is used, but also aggressive chemicals. It is better if the pollution is not very noticeable. For example, on a very dark or very light glossy finish, every crumb or speck of dust is clearly visible. It is better not to choose them for the kitchen. nine0003
Pexels
Despite the fact that the requirements for flooring are many, the choice of materials is very wide.
We offer a selection of options from which it is better to make a floor in the kitchen.
1. Ceramic tiles
The traditional kitchen floor solution. It is moisture resistant, not afraid of temperature changes and pollution. It is easy to wash off stains, provided that the lining is not porous. The design of the tile is varied. It can be monophonic, color, imitate various materials. Tiles are available in various sizes. Ceramics are well combined in color, size and shape. nine0003
Tiles are not perfect. First of all, its surface is always cold. The situation is saved by the underfloor heating system laid under it, but this is not always possible and beneficial. Also, ceramics are brittle. A dropped knife or heavy pot will almost certainly chip or even split the tile. It can be replaced, but it's troublesome. Glass or porcelain dishes will not withstand a fall on the tile.
But, in general, ceramic tiles are one of the most practical solutions. It is not afraid of water and pollution, without loss of appearance withstands numerous cleanings and washings.
The price is quite affordable. nine0003
Design: Anna Elina. Photo: Evgeny Gnesin
Design: Anna Elina. Photo: Evgeny Gnesin
2. Porcelain stoneware
This is a type of ceramic tile with increased strength and durability. When laid, it easily tolerates blows; it is rather difficult to split or chip off a fragment from it. Therefore, falling knives and heavy utensils are not terrible for porcelain stoneware. Insensitive to moisture and temperature changes. Can be installed in damp areas. Available in different designs: imitations of natural wood or stone are good, but there are other options. Combined in size, shape and color. nine0003
The disadvantage of porcelain stoneware is that the surface is cold to the touch. Walking barefoot on it is unpleasant, but the underfloor heating system saves the situation. If it is not possible to lay it, then it is better not to mount porcelain tiles on the ground floor or in a private house.
The material is very hard, which means that the dishes that fall on it will break into smithereens. Plus, it's slippery. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a tile with anti-slip treatment.
Porcelain stoneware is well suited for the kitchen. It is easy to clean, does not deteriorate from water, does not absorb odors, durable and beautiful. The price is slightly higher than that of ceramics. nine0003
Design: Ksenia Konovalova. Photo: Olga Shangina
3. Laminate
These are sandwich panels based on wood-based interlocking panels. Easy to fit, warm to the touch, easy to care for. It's nice to walk on them. Dishes that have fallen on the laminate will most likely remain intact. The colors and textures are very different, usually it is a good imitation of natural wood of various species, cork surface. High-quality models are durable, environmentally friendly, do not fade or deteriorate under the influence of moisture.
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The weakest point of laminate flooring is the interlocks. This is where moisture can get inside the base. This leads to irreparable damage to the coating: it deforms and swells. In addition, for inexpensive models, the edges of the laminated film move away over time. They lift up and fly off, revealing the base. The panels are not sufficiently resistant to mechanical damage. For example, a knife falling from a height will certainly damage the surface.
Laminate panels are a possible but not the best choice for kitchen flooring. They deteriorate from moisture, are sensitive to shock, and do not tolerate frequent washing. It is best to combine them with other coatings. For example, lay out strips of porcelain stoneware near the kitchen set, and decorate the area under the dining table with laminate. nine0003
4. PVC tiles
PVC tiles are made from polyvinyl chloride with various additives. The most famous variety is quartz-vinyl cladding.
About 80% quartz sand is added to it, which gives increased strength. The properties of vinyl tile are closest to linoleum. It is quite soft, moisture resistant, pleasant to the touch, resistant to mechanical stress. It cannot be split, but you can get dents under heavy furniture. Two types of PVC tiles are produced: with locking joints and for laying on glue. There are a lot of design options: sizes, shapes, textures and colors are very different. nine0003
The material has few significant drawbacks. One of them is careful preparation for installation. The base must be perfectly level and dry. Otherwise, all defects will be noticeable after installation. For castle models, these requirements are less stringent. Another disadvantage is the high price of PVC tiles. But we must understand that it will last a long time and will not lose its attractive appearance and properties during the entire period of operation. If repair is still required, the damaged element can be easily replaced.
Vinyl is a good choice. He is not afraid of water, frequent cleanings, does not deteriorate from aggressive chemistry. Soft lamellas are pleasant to the touch, retain sound and heat. nine0003
Pexels
5. Wood
Very beautiful and environmentally friendly option. Hardwood floors are strong and durable, provided they are properly installed and treated. It can be parquet, planks of different shapes or boards made of wood of different species. Depending on the type of wood, the properties of the finish vary slightly. But in any case, it is a stylish and expensive decor, warm and pleasant to the touch. Scratches and other defects that appear on its surface can be removed without a trace. nine0003
The main disadvantage of wood is its high hygroscopicity. It absorbs moisture and under its influence begins to deteriorate. A fungus or mold appears, the tree rots and collapses. Therefore, regular treatment with special solutions is required.
In addition, the wooden surface burns, it must be protected from fire. Strong mechanical influences are undesirable. There may be chips and scratches. True, it is quite easy to get rid of them.
With all the advantages of the material, without special treatment, it cannot be laid in the kitchen. Changes in humidity and temperature will quickly make the wood unusable. It is best to choose a thermal tree. This is the name of the material processed under special conditions. It is most resistant to moisture and other adverse factors. nine0003
Design: Natalia Shirokorad
Design: Victoria Baikova. Photo: Natalia Vershinina
6. Self-leveling floor
This is a liquid self-leveling mastic poured onto the base. Usually on a concrete screed. After hardening, a durable wear-resistant coating is formed. The self-leveling floor is immune to impacts, you can put massive furniture on it, drop sharp and heavy objects.
There are no traces left. It is completely sealed and waterproof. It is very easy to clean because it does not attract dust. The surface is smooth and easy to clean. You can use any household chemicals. nine0003
Liquid mastics come in a variety of colours. An interesting decor is obtained using the so-called 3D-paintings, but you should be careful with the choice of image: the image of an aquarium, a forest or mountain path, a desert is already completely irrelevant and can reduce the cost of the interior.
A significant disadvantage of flooring is the dependence on the quality of installation. Even a high-quality mixture can ruin unskilled installation. It is impossible to hide flaws when laying. The downside is usually considered the high price of decor and the fact that self-assembly is not always possible. nine0003
Self-leveling coating suitable for kitchen floors. It is durable, moisture and wear resistant, not afraid of temperature extremes and mechanical damage. At the same time, it is easy to care for him.
Design: Ekaterina Chasovskikh. Photo: Olga Shangina
The best choice for the kitchen will be porcelain stoneware, vinyl or quartz vinyl, self-leveling floor. Nothing will happen to them when water gets in, they are quite easy to wash off the most difficult contaminants and will not deteriorate even if a pipe breaks or a serious leak from the dishwasher. nine0003
Wood or laminate is a controversial choice when deciding which material is best for a kitchen floor. If you really want, they can be used, but subject to certain requirements. Choose only moisture-resistant laminate and thermowood. It's expensive, but will last a long time. A good solution would be a combination of different decors. All working and wet areas of the room are covered with moisture-resistant tiles, the rest - with a board, parquet or laminate.
Prepared by
Inna Yasinovskaya
Beautiful floor design in the kitchen 50 photo ideas for you
The kitchen in absolutely any home is a place where all the most extreme everyday situations are concentrated.
In order for the flooring in the kitchen to serve for a long time and not lose its appearance, its choice must be approached with particular care. Floor design in the kitchen 50 photo ideas, look and choose.
Watch video: Kitchen floor design
Coating Requirements0007
Kitchen flooring must meet a number of requirements.
1. Environmentally friendly. People cook and eat in the kitchen. This is a place where every family spends a lot of time. The materials used to cover the floor in the kitchen should not contain various toxins and poisons and be one hundred percent safe for human health.
2. Moisture resistant. Something is constantly being washed, boiled, spilled, etc. in the kitchen. Therefore, the kitchen floor covering must be chosen with increased moisture resistance.
Floor in the kitchen photo: nine0003
3. Kitchen flooring must be chemical resistant. The floors in the kitchen are cleaned very often and not infrequently with the use of household chemical detergents containing chlorine. Therefore, the floor design material in the kitchen must be resistant to absolutely any household chemicals.
4. Mechanical resistance. In the kitchen, something constantly falls, breaks, spills, chairs move, sometimes a table or other furniture. So that the floor in the kitchen does not lose its appearance for a long time, the floor covering must tolerate a variety of mechanical influences well. nine0003
5. The floor surface must not be slippery. The floor in the kitchen must not cause injury, even if water is spilled on it. Therefore, it is very desirable that the surface be rough, embossed.
Types of flooring in the kitchen
There are quite a few materials used for flooring in the kitchen.
All of them have both their advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look at their main types. Photo of kitchen floor options nine0003
Linoleum in the kitchen
Linoleum is without exaggeration the most popular flooring material in the kitchen. Mainly because of its cheapness. It is easy to wash, it is not afraid of moisture. Many types of linoleum are already produced on the substrate, which makes the floor covered with this material quite warm. As a rule, linoleum has no reaction to household detergents. Linoleum is quite durable and does not require frequent replacement. Coating with this material does not require special skills and does not take much time. nine0003
Of course there are disadvantages. Most types of linoleum, especially the less expensive ones, are not very environmentally friendly and may contain unwanted toxins. Linoleum can crack due to too low a temperature and deform due to a high one. Linoleum is slippery.
For the kitchen, it is advisable to choose types with a rough surface so that there is no injury.
But naturally, such linoleum will be harder to wash. A kitchen with a dark floor, covered with such a floor covering, can hardly claim any unique design. This flooring, with all the variety of colors offered by manufacturers, as a rule, looks ordinary and too everyday. nine0003
Laminate in the kitchen
Interior of the kitchen Laminate flooring is not a very popular material when it comes to the kitchen. Almost all types of laminate deteriorate from high humidity. Only water-resistant varieties of laminate can be used in the kitchen, they are indicated on the packaging “aqua”. Such a laminate has a special additional protection on the surface and joints of the seams. However, for laying even a moisture-resistant type of laminate in the kitchen at the joints of the panels, you should additionally use special glue, since none of the types of laminate fasteners provides tightness, which can lead to accumulation of moisture and dirt. nine0003
The advantages include ease of installation, good thermal insulation and relatively low cost.
As well as higher environmental friendliness and safety in comparison, for example, with linoleum.
Parquet for the floor in the kitchen
Beautiful floor in the kitchen - parquet. Timeless and never out of fashion classic. Parquet floors in the house are always a sign of exceptionally good taste of the owner. It is the safest and most natural flooring material in use today. The advantage of parquet is that the floor covered with it will be warm. However, due to its characteristics, parquet flooring is rarely used in the kitchen, as it does not tolerate moisture well. nine0003
Self-leveling floor in the kitchen
Self-leveling floor is a beautiful floor in the kitchen. A tangible attractive moment of this coating is the complete absence of any joints, gaps, cracks, etc. Having such a floor in the kitchen, it is not possible to fill, for example, neighbors from below. The self-leveling floor will be perfectly smooth, without any bumps and roughness.
The main advantage of choosing this type of flooring is the absolutely limitless possibilities of colors, which helps to realize any floor design in the kitchen. nine0003
In addition to literally any shade of any color, this technology allows you to create real masterpieces on the floor. Designers working with this type of flooring can offer absolutely any ornament and pattern. The interior of the kitchen floor - you can even create 3D paintings on it. A kitchen with such a floor will never look ordinary. Self-leveling floor technology allows you to turn the kitchen into a corner of a fabulous fantasy world. You choose what it will be - a kitchen with a dark floor or a light kitchen. nine0003
But there are also disadvantages. Self-leveling floor, especially laid on concrete, the coating is rather cold. In order for the floor to really turn out to be of decent quality, it is necessary to strictly observe all the stages of technology during its laying, and this is a rather significant period of time.
Of course, it is impossible to use the kitchen until all the work is fully completed. Bulk floor, even in the simplest version, the pleasure is quite expensive. You can not even try to cover the kitchen with such a coating yourself. It is imperative to call the experts involved in this. See photos of kitchen floor options. nine0003
Cork floor in the kitchen
Cork floor. This is another new type of flooring that can be successfully used in the kitchen. The floor in the kitchen, covered with such material, is quite warm, practically does not cause allergies. Has good moisture resistance. The cork does not burn, which may be important for the kitchen. On such a coating, mold and fungus do not form. Cork is a highly environmentally friendly material that does not contain toxins.
The most suitable type of cork for the kitchen is liquid. It applies like normal paint and does not form seams. The most common types - glue and lock, can also be used for the kitchen, but the joints of the cork panels are not airtight, and moisture and dirt can accumulate under the coating, which, of course, is a disadvantage for the kitchen.
Cork flooring is quite expensive compared to most other flooring materials. Floor in the kitchen photo: nine0003
Kitchen floor tiles
Nice floor in the kitchen - tiles. A very popular type of flooring used in the kitchen. The tile is not afraid of high temperature, steam and moisture, it is easy to clean, it is not expensive. Manufacturers of tiles offer customers many different and interesting colors.
The obvious disadvantage of tiling is that it is a rather cold floor covering. The surface on which the tile is laid must be perfectly smooth. The tile is easily damaged by strong mechanical stress. And over time, cracks from various fallen objects may appear on its surface, which of course will spoil the entire appearance of the floor. nine0003
It goes without saying that there is no such thing as a 100% perfect kitchen floor. But with a careful approach to the choice, following the laying technology and the manufacturer's recommendations for operation, any of the above floor coverings will serve for a long time, creating comfort in the kitchen of its owner.
