Durability, Comfort, Maintenance
As you select kitchen floor options for your remodel some things to consider are durability, comfort and maintenance. In many instances you can enjoy several options in one product choice. We have gathered information to aid in making this all important decision.
Hardwood
Durability
Are you are looking for durability for your kitchen floor? The following products would be excellent flooring choices.
- Hardwood
- Stone
- Tile
- Wood Laminate
- Concrete
Hardwood has been on the top of the buyer’s list for flooring for years. This flooring brings great resale value to a home and is very durable. Unique grain in different species of wood makes this type of flooring a creative selection for any kitchen. To bring a seamless look to an open floor plan, this floor type is a great choice.
Stone floors can include slate, Travertine and marble. The beauty of these materials comes from the various colors and patterns that can give your kitchen a warm and natural look. Stone floors stay cool in warmer climates. In colder regions radiant heat can be installed as a sub-floor to warm the stone. This surface is easy to clean and very durable.
Tile offers homeowners variety, as well as, durability. Ceramic & porcelain tile flooring material can be used inside or outside and is moisture resistant. One of the most attractive reasons to choose tile are the limitless colors, shapes and textures available to allow homeowners to express their unique style.
Wood Laminate is a synthetic flooring product that is multi-layered and simulates wood. This flooring incorporates a photographic applique layer under a clear protective layer. Laminate flooring does not fade in the sunlight and is resistant to stains, impacts and scratches giving it excellent durability.
Concrete flooring is often found in more contemporary designs and can be creatively stamped, stained and polished. When installing this floor in colder climates a radiant floor heat sub-floor can be a solution. Concrete floors are not very comfortable for homeowners that stand cooking for long intervals.
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- Full Overlay
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- Slate
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- Wood Laminate
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- Concrete
Comfort
The better choice for a homeowner who spends extended time standing cooking in the kitchen would be a kitchen floor that is softer on the foot. Some of those floors include the following:
- Vinyl
- Cork
- Wood Laminate
Vinyl flooring comes in a variety of styles and is a very affordable option for the kitchen. Sheet vinyl has a very water resistant quality, but the sheets only come in 12’ widths. A kitchen with a larger footprint will need several sheets, which will require a seam. This is one of the softest flooring options and easy on the legs and back for homeowners that spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Maintenance is a breeze.
Cork flooring is one of the best choices for those who are looking for eco-friendly materials and this flooring is more cushy than wood and tile. Other qualities include it’s slip-resistance and waterproof structure. For homeowners looking for sustainability, cork is a great choice. The beauty of this surface is its natural texture. You do need to seal it every few years to protect against scratches and to keep it moisture resistant.
Wood laminate flooring information is discussed under “Durability”.
Maintenance
If your objective is to have an easy care kitchen floor, than you might want to consider these low-maintenance flooring products for your kitchen remodel:
- Stone
- Tile
- Wood laminate
- Hardwood
- Vinyl
The choices for your kitchen remodel are as varied as the number of designs you can choose for your remodel. Kitchen floor choices can be different depending on your floor plan. If you have an open floor plan and need continuity throughout several rooms, than a homeowner may decide to install hardwood. If you have pets than a more resilient floor may be needed and tile may be the better choice. Consult with a designer for ease in making the best selections for your family’s needs.
