All about kitchen flooring

Flooring is an important part of any kitchen remodelling project and is something which is often overlooked. The material, colour and surface of your floor can have a dramatic impact on the overall look of your kitchen whilst a range of practical points must also be considered. This article will examine the most popular flooring options on the market today.

Tiles are a good option if you use your kitchen regularly as they are extremely hardwearing. There are a range of different stones on offer, with some pricier than others. Natural stone such as limestone and slate is more expensive than porcelain and ceramic but these materials do give a room a more authentic feel. However, natural materials are porous and thus need to be washed and sealed regularly to combat staining, whereas porcelain and ceramic are virtually maintenance-free.

Kitchens are dangerous places and spillages are likely to happen. This means choosing tiles with a non-slip textured surface is recommended as these will give you greater grip under-foot. Furthermore, tiles have a habit of retaining the cold so consider installing under-floor heating. Your toes will thank you for it on a cold December morning!

The rise of wood has become more pronounced recently as this material adds a country-cottage feel to its surroundings. If you are going to use this surface in the kitchen, you need to ensure it is well-sealed as wood is not renowned for its water-resistant properties. Solid wood and engineered wood both have different properties so ensure you buy according to your needs. The range of natural colours available in wood is one of its major appeals.

Laminate flooring has increased in popularity in recent years, and not just with those designing cheap kitchens, as it is a cheaper alternative to wood and stone yet it creates a similar effect. Choosing a waterproof laminate is vital for the kitchen for practical reasons but all spills must be dealt with quickly to prevent long-term damage. Care must also be taken when selecting your laminate, with the pricier options generally producing a better and longer-lasting finish.

Rubber is another popular option as it combines waterproof properties with a non-slip surface making it one of the safest materials to use. It also comes in a range of vibrant colours but the overall effect can leave your kitchen looking like a canteen if you are not careful, especially if you don't make wise choices with your kitchen units and cabinets.

Vinyl flooring was a popular option in the Eighties and this material does come with a range of advantages. It is highly resilient and durable, reducing noise and increasing comfort underfoot. It is also stain resistant and easy to clean. Vinyl also comes in a range of colours but its reputation has somewhat been tarnished due to the decade with which it’s associated.

Carpet or carpet tiles were another once popular option which has fallen out of favour somewhat. Tiles are easy to fit and practical, meaning many people have chosen to use them to create a stylish and chic living space. Their use is also not limited by the shape of the room. However, spillages and burns are trickier to sort out whilst tiles have a habit of pulling around the edges, leaving an untidy appearance. 

It is clear that choosing the correct floor is an intricate process but if you focus on the practical as well as the aesthetic needs then you can discover the right choice for you.
 

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