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Not all flooring types are suitable for the kitchen. There are many things to consider, including durability, water resistance and maintenance. But, of course, we can’t forget style and comfort either.
But what are the best options? Below, we explore the variety of kitchen flooring types to help you make the best choice for your home.
Stone flooring is a great kitchen flooring option for many homes. It’s hardwearing and long-lasting, a top combination in this space. Depending on the look and style you want to achieve, there are various stone options, including:
Each of the materials above is suitable for flooring in low and high traffic areas. However, there are some drawbacks. For example, while marble looks stylish, it is easily scratched or stained. Granite and slate also require regular maintenance and sealing to keep them in top condition.
Stone flooring is also susceptible to water damage as the material is porous. Not to mention the high costs with any type of stone flooring for your kitchen.
Many people choose hardwood flooring due to its aesthetic. The choice of colours and texture offers a wide variety of interior looks for traditional and contemporary homes. However, wood flooring in kitchens has often been a big no-no. The main reason is moisture.
Modern sealers offer optimum protection to create a barrier against water and stains to combat this problem. However, sanding and resealing could be a more regular job than expected.
Many people like wood flooring due to its warmer feel underfoot compared to tiles. But it’s also expensive to install and is more prone to scratches or dents, which are challenging to remove.
Another popular kitchen flooring type is laminate. Laminate flooring mimics the appearance of wood flooring but is more affordable and easier to install. It is available in numerous colours and designs. However, it does not have the same quality as its counterpart. That aside, depending on the manufacturer, some laminate options last 10-20 years.
It is ideal for high traffic areas such as a kitchen and is scratch and water-resistant. However, it’s advisable to bear in mind its MDF or HDF core can be damaged by water if it seeps through the joins. Another bonus of laminate flooring is it’s pretty simple to replace, as the planks slot together typically with a click and lock system.
Lino or linoleum flooring became a staple for kitchens and bathrooms back in the 1960s, and it’s since seen a renaissance. This flooring type is made from linseed oil and offers a variety of colourways and designs to suit all homes.
It can last many years if cared for but can be prone to curling at the edges if not affixed well. Lino is also affected by water, especially if you experience a leak, as it may need completely replacing.
Arguably the best type of flooring for kitchens is PVC vinyl. It is one of the easiest and inexpensive materials for high traffic areas. In addition, its composition makes it resistant to water, stains and general damage, which is ideal for busy households.
Vinyl is also simple to clean, and just a sweep and mop should do the trick. To ensure the surface stays in great condition, opt for specialist cleaning products, so it doesn’t degrade it.
You can also choose vinyl in planks and tile packs for simple DIY installation. There are various designs that mimic wood and stone flooring aesthetics. Some of our top sellers include Simplex Antique White Ash and Noir Slate vinyl flooring. For something a little different, there’s also the choice of sparkly looks.
There are several options to choose from for your next kitchen flooring project. But how do you know which is best for you? While each material has its pros and cons, there are some things to keep in mind when you purchase. These include:
Kitchens are a hive of activity. So, you need your flooring to withstand everything the day throws at it. When considering the options, think about its durability and whether it requires regular sealing. If the material is prone to dents or scratches, this could add extra costs over its lifetime.
The look of your kitchen floor is an important factor when choosing the material. Some options, such as natural wood or stone, are limited to the specific styles or texture. Also, there are often inconsistencies and imperfections in the appearance, which you cannot change after purchase. In contrast, laminate or vinyl flooring is ideal for matching interior colour palettes.
The type of material you choose for your new kitchen floor typically depends on whether you’re opting for a DIY install or leaving it to the professionals. Some options are easy to tackle, such as PVC vinyl. Whereas others, such as hardwood, should be completed by someone in the know. Installation costs should be factored into the total cost to help you get the right flooring for your budget.
There’s nothing worse than standing on cold, hard flooring. So, choose the material wisely to make sure your feet are comfortable with your new addition. Natural materials have less give in them, so they’ll be harder underfoot. In comparison, laminate and vinyl are typically installed with an underlay to add a softer feel.
Selecting the best kitchen flooring type for your home can be challenging. However, weighing up the pros and cons will help you find a suitable design for your interiors and lifestyle.
At Igloo Surfaces, we have a variety of PVC vinyl flooring options to suit all kitchens. Choose from wood-like aesthetics to stone-like designs, all for an affordable cost. What’s more, our Simplex range is super easy to install and comes with a 10-year guarantee.
Why not order some samples to check out the quality? If you need any help selecting the best flooring for your kitchen, our team are happy to help.
