Whether you're doing a total remodel or just looking for a cosmetic upgrade, you'll have to face plenty of choices when it comes to floor styles. All of the options can easily become overwhelming, especially if you don't know what to look for.
When judging the right kitchen floor for your home, you should consider whether the material is durable, water-resistant, and washable as well as how it will look in your home. Here is how the top five floor styles stand up to that criteria.
1. Tile
Tile is one of the most common floor styles for kitchen floors, with porcelain and ceramic being the most popular options. Tile is versatile in style and easily maintained, which is ideal for busing and high-traffic rooms.Durability
Both ceramic and porcelain tiles are durable. They're difficult to scratch or break and show little wear and tear over time. Once flooring tile is installed, it won't require regular attention like sealing to maintain the appearance.Water-Resistant
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are also very water-resistant, which means it won't absorb water, which can lead to stains and cracks. So you won't have to worry about spilled cups or drips from the sink.Washable
Tile is also easy to clean and won't take a lot of scrubbing to remove dirt or grime, even when the tile is a lighter color.Stylish
What draws many homeowners to tile is the seemingly endless variety of colors, styles, shapes, and patterns. From simple modern rectangles or geometric hexagons to neutral whites to bold blues. Tile is a great option for those who want to customize their kitchen flooring.2. Luxury Vinyl Plank
Vinyl planks, often called engineered vinyl planks, are a newer material when it comes to kitchen floor options. They're one of the less expensive flooring options per square foot, so they're ideal for renovating on a budget.Durability
Overall, vinyl planks are a durable choice for kitchen floors because they are resistant to scratches and stains that can come from heavy traffic and use. They won't require any kind of sealing or refinishing, so they're low maintenance as well.Water-Resistant
Vinyl planks are also water-resistant, so they won't absorb water or spills and stains. Don't fear spills or messy cooking when you have vinyl floors.Washable
They're easily washed, so it's a great material if you have kids or pets. You can use your standard mop or broom without any special additions.Stylish
Vinyl planks are made most often to look like hardwood or natural stone tile. Many people opt for this material to get the look of wood or stone floors for less.3. Stone
Natural stone tile is an overarching category for materials like granite, slate, travertine, or marble. These are popular choices for kitchen floors because they're timeless and add value to a home. For floors, they come as types rather than the slabs you may have for countertops.Durability
Stone is a natural material, so its durability can range. Granite, slate, and marble are some of the more durable options. And while travertine is popular, it's more prone to scratches, but with proper care, it can last a long time.Water-Resistant
Most stone is porous by nature, which means it will need to be sealed periodically to continue to be water- and stain-resistant. Depending on the stone type, that could mean every few months or once a year.Washable
While stone tiles are washable, you do have to be careful about the chemicals you use to clean them. Some harsh chemicals can etch or discolor stone, so it's a good idea to check before cleaning.Stylish
Many homeowners love stone tiles because they offer an earthy element to the kitchen. Coming in a variety of colors from neutral tans, grays, and whites to bolder shades of blue, red, and orange, there's a stone tile for every kitchen.4. Hardwood
For most homeowners, hardwood is the top choice when it comes to flooring throughout the house. There are engineered hardwood and solid hardwood floor options. Engineered hardwood has a plywood core with a layer of hardwood on top with solid hardwood is just as it sounds: solid sheets of wood.Durability
Both types of hardwood are pretty durable and can stand up to regular traffic, but there is a chance of them being scratched, dented, or stained over time. But both types can be sanded and refinished to renew the look. Engineered hardwood can last 40 years while solid hardwood can last up to 100.Water-Resistant
Wood is porous, so it's naturally is less water-resistant than other flooring options. However, there are sealers and finishes that can make both types of hardwood water-resistant.Washable
Because wood is porous, you do have to be careful about what you put on it when you clean your floors. That's not to say that the material isn't washable. Wood floors are easily cleaned as long as you use a cleaner made for wood.Stylish
Timeless, elegant, and beautiful, there's no denying that hardwood is a stunning option. They're available in light, dark, and medium shades, so this material can suit any interior aesthetic.5. Laminate
Laminate is another budget-friendly option for kitchen floors. These planks or tiles are made with particle board, a wood image, and have a clear finish over top of it all.Durability
This kitchen flooring material is scratch-resistant, so it's a great option for a high-traffic kitchen or homes with kids and pets. But it can chip if something heavy falls onto it.Water-Resistant
Laminate is only waterproof and water-resistant to an extent. Small spills cleaned up quickly are fine. But lots of water can cause the base to swell and misshapen.Washable
Laminate is easy to clean, though. The clear finish prevents stains and allows you to wipe up messes easily.Stylish
Many modern laminate floors are made to look like wood planks, but can also have the look of tile as well. This makes them a good option if you want the look of hardwood for less.The Top Five Floor Styles to Consider for Your Home
How do you use your kitchen? Are you a family who cooks together every night? Do you make elaborate meals and test different recipes? Are your friends and family always over for dinner parties and game nights? For many people, the kitchen is the heart of the home.The kitchen is where people gather to be together, laugh, talk, and celebrate. But because of all that activity, the kitchen can't only be a pretty backdrop; it has to be durable as well. The right floor styles make all the difference in the beauty and function of your kitchen.
Get ready to transform your home and love your kitchen again. Contact National Floors Direct to get a free estimate on your flooring project today!
