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New kitchen flooring options


Best Kitchen Flooring Options Of December – Forbes Home

Renovating a kitchen can be a complicated process. Unlike a bedroom or living room with few built-in components or complicated wiring outside of a TV or computer set-up, kitchens have a lot of considerations; appliances, plumbing, and electricity all have to come together to make the most of the space and ensure that it works safely.

When considering a kitchen remodel, don’t forget your flooring. Flooring should account for approximately 7% of the remodeling budget if you’re tackling the whole kitchen. It needs to be done earlier in the process, too; painting your kitchen walls may come first, but flooring and cabinets need to come before the countertops, backsplash and appliances. While you may be able to DIY some of these, it’s always a good idea to bring in a professional flooring installation company to ensure the job is done perfectly. Pros and cons of some of the most common and best flooring options for kitchens are below.

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1. Hardwood

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One of the most traditional options, hardwood is still a popular choice for kitchen flooring today. Although not waterproof, solid hardwoods with the correct finish are water-resistant. Spills should be cleaned up immediately to avoid damage.

Hardwood floors can be refinished to revamp their look, which can especially come in handy if you’re doing a smaller kitchen renovation and don’t want to overhaul the entire floor to make it match the new aesthetic. Like tile flooring, hardwood can be laid in different patterns for added interest. Lately, reclaimed, recycled and environmentally sustainable hardwood has been of particular interest.

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2. Tile

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Tile is a go-to option for areas with frequent exposure to water, like kitchens and bathrooms. Ceramic, porcelain and stone tile are all common choices for kitchen flooring options. Tile comes in many sizes and colors and can be laid out in a variety of patterns to suit just about any design theme.

Tile is incredibly long-lasting but in some instances, the grout needs to be resealed to keep it stain-resistant. A DIY approach is not recommended when installing tile flooring.

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are similar; ceramic tiles are even more durable than porcelain. Both are highly resistant to damage, although due to their hardness, dishes dropped on them will likely break, and because of their weight, they are not recommended for a second-story floor. Porcelain, in particular, is waterproof and easy to clean, but tile can be slippery and grout is prone to stains, so any messes should still be cleaned up right away.

Stone tile is more expensive and also requires more upkeep than ceramic or porcelain. With the proper care, it can be as tough as other types of tile and it’s also more likely to be non-slip because of its porous surface. Stone tile used in flooring includes travertine, marble, slate and granite.

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3. Vinyl

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Vinyl flooring has seen a resurgence in recent years because of the modern upgrades it’s received. Engineered vinyl flooring is now available in tiles and planks that mimic the look of hardwood and stone. It’s completely waterproof, has an almost springy feel underfoot, is incredibly easy to clean and is one of the best kitchen flooring options if you want to take the DIY route.

The biggest drawback of vinyl flooring is that it is softer than other options. Large appliances can dent or scratch it, so use caution when moving or upgrading things in the kitchen.

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4. Laminate

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Laminate has long been a less expensive alternative to hardwood flooring. Like vinyl, it can mimic the look of hardwood for a lower cost; unlike vinyl, it is not always waterproof, but waterproof versions are now available as well. Also, like vinyl, laminate flooring is a great option for DIY installation because the planks can be attached to one another and glued down or “floated,” allowing them to be put over an uneven subfloor.

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5.

Cork

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Cork is a relatively new addition to the kitchen flooring market, and it’s another budget-friendly DIY option. Cork flooring can be purchased as peel-and-stick, glue-down or snap-together assembly to look like tiles or planks. Unlike many other flooring options, cork won’t feel cold to the touch, and it has a soft, even springy feel, which makes it a good option for absorbing sound.

Made from ground-up cork combined with resins, cork flooring is available in a variety of gray and brown shades. It resists stains but isn’t waterproof; spills should be cleaned up before they can soak in. However, if it does get stained, cork flooring can be sanded down and then retouched with stain and sealer.

The floor can be dented from heavy appliances, but it has the ability to spring back given time. It can also fade in direct sunlight, so closing the curtains during the brightest time of day is recommended.

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6. Concrete

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Concrete flooring might sound too harsh for a homey area of the house, but it’s actually a very durable option for the kitchen. Stained concrete can be styled to look like wood, stone or even tile, and it can be sealed to be almost completely waterproof—although mats are still recommended near areas of excessive moisture, like in front of the sink or dishwasher.

One of the biggest perks of concrete is its price; it is a much cheaper flooring option, and since it can be designed to look like something else, it doesn’t have to look inexpensive.

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7 Durable Options for Kitchen Flooring

By

Joseph Lewitin

Joseph Lewitin

Joseph Lewitin is a flooring expert who grew up in the industry. In his youth, he began working in his family's tile import business, learning every aspect of the flooring industry, from design and fabrication to maintenance and repair. He also owned a flooring materials store specializing in natural stone floors.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 03/14/22

Reviewed by

Johnathan Brewer

Reviewed by Johnathan Brewer

Johnathan Brewer is a home improvement expert with over two decades of professional experience as a licensed general contractor specializing in kitchen and bath. He has been featured on HGTV’s “Super Scapes,” “Curb Appeal the Block,” “Elbow Room,” DIY Network's “House Crashers,” "This Old House," and OWN Network's Emmy award winning show, “Home Made Simple.” Jonathan is also a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.

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Hikesterson / Getty Images

Kitchen floors go through a lot of wear and tear. Between spills and drips, heat and dropped utensils, as well as the constant plod of feet, the flooring in this space needs to handle multiple hazards and look good while doing it. Not every material is well suited for this location, and some kitchen flooring options will last longer than others and with less maintenance. Balancing style, function, and comfort is the key to making the right choice.

Here are seven different kitchen flooring options to consider for one of the highest-traffic areas of your home.

Which floor is better to make in the kitchen: choosing 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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Kitchen flooring: choice, pros, cons

One of the important tasks when planning a renovation is to choose a floor covering for the kitchen. This is important not only from an aesthetic point of view, but also from a technical one. After all, it is necessary to properly prepare the base for coating, and they do it long before the finish. So what floors are better to make in the kitchen must be decided in advance.

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