Kitchen Flooring Options
The kitchen is often thought to be the center of many homes. It is where a lot of activity and socializing takes place whether within the family on a daily basis or during special occasions when friends come over. For this reason, it is important to find the right type of flooring for your kitchen that will be durable, functional and beautiful.
Vinyl
Vinyl flooring is a popular option because it is durable, easy to clean and maintain and very affordable. It also comes in a wide variety of styles, patterns and colors to choose from, ensuring that any customer can find one to fit their design aesthetic. The mid-range to higher quality vinyl floors will feature some inlaid details rather than just surface designs, as well as a layer protective urethane coating for added durability and shine. Many vinyl tiles are very simple to install, with just a sticky underside already built in for easy application.
Linoleum
Linoleum floors were incredibly popular in home kitchens before the mid-century and they are seeing a resurgence in popularity. Because it is made of natural products (linseed oil, pine resin and wood flour), linoleum is an ideal choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. There are many styles to choose from and it is also an inexpensive option
Laminate
Laminate is a newer option in the world of kitchen flooring, but it is quickly becoming a popular choice. Unlike linoleum, it is made from synthetic plastic materials but designed to resemble wood, marble or stone. Its durability is high, but installation can be tricky so most homeowners would be best served hiring a contractor to install their laminate flooring.
Wood
Wood is a favored flooring choice in most any room of a home and especially in the kitchen. Wood is classic and beautiful, adding warmth and value to the home. Since kitchens typically undergo heavy foot traffic on a regular basis, it is best to choose a type of wood that can withstand some damage. There are many different types of wood to choose from in a variety of shades and finishes. Many people, however, enjoy the "lived in" and unique character than worn and slightly damaged wood floors have.
Rubber
Commercial kitchens have to worry less about aesthetic appeal and more about functionality. Rubber flooring is comfortable for chefs and wait staff that must stand for long periods of time while working and it is also very easy to clean.
Ceramic or stone tile
Like wood, this type of flooring looks rich and adds beauty to any kitchen. Though perhaps a bit pricier than some other options, it is also quite durable and will be sure to add value to your home for many years. The surfaces are relatively easy to clean and maintain with regular sweeping and mopping. Cleaning the grout will also be an issue occasionally.
t i�+ oeI$ * iety of superficial mars like scratches, scrapes or gouges. It can also warp or discolor over time depending on the environment of the room. There are two main types of hardwood floors: enginereed and solid. Engineered wood flooring is created by layering pieces of wood on top of each other and topping it with a veneer. It is more durable and, hence, more expensive. Hardwood flooring costs about $6 to $15 per square foot and is easy to clean, with refinishing required only once every ten years or so.
Ceramic tiles
Ceramic tile flooring is also quite attractive and valuable to a home or business space. The most commonly seen style is the red/orange terra cotta tiles, but there are a variety of styles and colors available on the market that can match most decor types. They are cheaper than hardwood floors - only about $1 to $10 each tile - but require a bit more effort in upkeep (mopping and sweeping regularly). The grout may be a bother to clean for some, but the aesthetic appeal is worth it.
Laminate floors
Laminate floors are popular because they are now made to emulate the look of more expensive wood or ceramic floors, but are more cost economical and quite durable. They are also quite easy to clean and maintain. The average cost is $2 to $10 per square foot.
Carpet
Of course, carpet is always a popular option for its comfort. The wide range of types, styles and colors make it easy to find a carpet choice that will fit any decor style. However, maintenance is easy with regular vacuuming and the occasional carpet wash, carpets do tend to look dirty and worn relatively quickly - usually after about five years - and will need to be replaced. Most carpeting is priced at $1 to $15 per square foot
Vinyl
This is the least expensive of the flooring options at $1 to $4 per square foot. It is attractive enough to satisfy most homes or offices and is impressively durable. Many styles and colors are available.