The kitchen is arguably the most popular and most used room in your home. As such, it takes a lot of abuse and needs to be able to stand up to heavy traffic and use. While tile and linoleum were once the go-to kitchen flooring materials due to their durability and low cost, new flooring trends have surpassed them.
Wood flooring is one the most popular options, especially in homes with an open floor plan. Hardwood floors look as great in the living room as in the kitchen and can be used throughout to create a unified look.
If you want a weathered look, natural wood floors can be treated with oil and wax; however this often leaves the flooring vulnerable to moisture. Hardwood flooring that has been sealed and treated with polyurethane will provide better durability and will not require waxing. While oak has been a popular stain choice for kitchen floors, more homeowners are now using other stains such as cherry, maple, and hickory. Engineered wood is another option that will give you the look of natural wood but stands up better to moisture and shrinks and expands less than wood.
Bamboo is another flooring option that has gained popularity in recent years. While many people think bamboo is wood, it is actually a tropical grass. Some benefits of bamboo flooring is that it is harder and more resistant dents and scratches than most domestic hardwoods and it stands up better to moisture. For those looking for a green flooring option, bamboo is an excellent choice as it can be harvested without harming the tree. Bamboo comes in a variety of plank sizes and patterns and can be stained in a variety of colors to complement any kitchen décor.
Another great option is cork. Like bamboo, it is a renewable source. It also stands up well to moisture and resists warping. Cork flooring is soft and absorbs shock, making it comfortable to stand on, easy on the joints, and dishes are less likely to break if dropped. Cork has the ability to heal or return to its original shape, which helps prevent dents and scuffs. Cork also naturally resists mold, mildew and bacteria.
Concrete, once relegated to the garage or basement, has evolved and become a great kitchen flooring choice. Concrete can be stained, stamped, or etched to create beautiful textures and patterns that will complement your kitchen design. A concrete floor can even be designed to resemble other materials, such as marble and slate. Concrete floors are durable, easy to clean and inexpensive. They also work extremely well with radiant heat.
One other less traditional flooring option that can look beautiful when properly executed is brick. Brick flooring pavers are available in a range of colors and textures and can be laid out in a pattern to create a truly unique look.
If you’re unsure which material is the best option for your kitchen renovation, consult the experts at Mission Kitchen and Bath. We can work with you to determine which is best suited for your lifestyle and how you use your kitchen.