One of the biggest decisions you will have to make during your kitchen remodeling project is between flooring types. From stone and tile to wood and bamboo, there are many excellent choices that can completely transform the look of your kitchen. As the hub of the home, the flooring in your kitchen should be highly resilient, easy to clean, and strong enough to withstand constant foot traffic. Not sure exactly what you want? Check out our top ideas for kitchen remodeling floor plans and how a professional kitchen remodeling contractor can help you choose and install your new kitchen floors.
1. Engineered Hardwood
Wood flooring in the kitchen is the perfect way to create a timeless, upscale look. Engineered hardwood can last many years if well-cared for, but can show dents, scratches, and dents. However, engineered hardwood flooring can withstand humid climates better than solid hardwood. It is also durable enough to withstand a high amount of food traffic and moisture-resistant enough to handle most kitchen spills. Wood flooring is especially advantageous in open-concept homes as wood grain tends to tie the different areas of the home together, making a space appear larger.
2. Solid Hardwood
If you want flooring for your kitchen that will stand the test of time, you cannot go wrong with solid hardwood. While engineered hardwood is less likely to expand, contract, and shift over time, solid hardwood is a solid choice through and through. You can find solid hardwood flooring in a wide range of colors and finishes. There are also many wood options to choose from, such as oak, maple, and mahogany. Solid hardwood is also hypoallergenic, easy to clean, and offers some insulation properties which can help lower your energy bills. Best of all, solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished which eliminates the need for costly replacements in the future.
3. Cork
Another great choice for your kitchen remodeling project is cork flooring. Cork flooring offers natural warmth with optimal insulation, creating a comfortable walking experience with rich colors. Cork is also an eco-friendly option. What makes cork so popular in spaces like kitchens is there spill resistance. Cork contains a highly moisture-resistant cellular structure that helps keep them protected against liquids. Like all flooring types, there are some downsides to using cork. Cork flooring must be sealed every few years and too much sun can cause discoloration.
4. Laminate
Laminate is an affordable flooring option often preferred by homeowners on a budget. The synthetic product is made up of several layers that are sealed together to create a durable floor. A décor layer on top is printed with an image that may mimic the look of wood, stone, or tile. You can find laminate flooring in various thicknesses and with different AC ratings. The higher the AC rating, the more durable the flooring is. Laminate flooring is fairly scratch resistant and easy to maintain. Installation is fast and straightforward and requires your kitchen remodeling contractor to click boards together for a seamless look.
5. Porcelain Tile
For spaces in your home like kitchens were spilled are inevitable, many homeowners turn to tile flooring. Porcelain tile offers an upscale look available in a multitude of shapes and sizes. Make your kitchen look larger by using the same colored tile throughout or create texture and dimension by installing the tile in a unique pattern using a contrasting color scheme. Porcelain tile is not only waterproof, but is hard, durable, and extremely stain resistant. It has a look that is similar to more expensive stone options but at a fraction of the price.
6. Natural Stone
Natural stone is the ultimate way to give your kitchen remodeling project a designer look. You can find natural stone tiles in a variety of colors and sizes. The durable flooring option can also add resale value to your home if you ever decide to sell. While stone tiles are more expensive than other options, the final look is unsurpassed. However, as natural stone can be heavy and hard to work with, installation is not a do-it-yourself job. You will definitely want to hire a professional kitchen remodeling contractor to get the job done right.
7. Luxury Vinyl
While not as commonly used as other kitchen flooring options, luxury vinyl remains a top contender in kitchen remodeling projects. You can find vinyl flooring in tiles, rolls, and planks, making it extremely versatile. Rolls are one of the more affordable options and can be useful when covering a large area. Vinyl flooring is typically installed using a peel and stick method, interlocking or floating technique, or can be glued down. Due to advancements in technology, vinyl flooring is much more durable and aesthetically pleasing then it used to be. It can also mimic your favorite flooring options such as wood, stone, and other patterns.
Contact a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor
You know that you want a kitchen floor that is durable and easy to clean, but what else should you look for? First, consider the location of the kitchen. If the kitchen is located right off the garage or the back door where the kids come in after playing, then you are going to want a floor that can withstand wear and tear. You will also want to consider your unique household. If you have several children or pets, your kitchen flooring is going to receive more foot traffic then if you live alone.
No matter what type of flooring you choose during your kitchen remodel, you will want to have it installed by a professional. Installing flooring requires extensive experience to get it done right. One small mistake can completely ruin the look of your floor and cost you money as you attempt to make it right. Ensure that the project is completed correctly the first time around by hiring a qualified kitchen remodeling contractor. Are you ready to get started on your kitchen flooring project? Contact Koncept Design + Build today to talk to a kitchen remodeling contractor.
