Best Flooring for Kitchen: Expert Advice on What & How to Choose

Average Cost To Install New Flooring Price Range: $1,215 - $2,460
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sample of a tile flooring option
Tile flooring can come in unique colors, shapes, and sizes.
For starters, you’ll want to select one that matches the rest of your kitchen. Sometimes people develop the misconception that they have to go with the absolute highest quality of tile that will end up costing them the most. This isn’t necessarily true. Tile comes in many colors and shapes. You’ll want to carefully choose a pattern that suits your kitchen’s decor, cabinetry, and overall design. Tile flooring is durable and you don’t have to replace it if you decide to switch up your kitchen’s style in the future. Tile installation is a renovation project that many DIYers try on their own. It’s a product that can last for years and provide resistance from stains, spills, and splatters. I can’t stress enough how easy it is to clean tile, which makes it perfect for kitchens that are always full of dirty dishes, sticky countertops, and spilled food. Tile is smooth underneath your feet, so you won’t hurt yourself as you move around your kitchen, even if you’re spending long periods of time on it. You can find tile floors in a variety of sizes at home improvement stores and tile specialty shops. The size of your tile floor will depend on how much space you have in your kitchen, as well as how much money you want to spend. The right tile can bring out the best in your kitchen, project a sense of style and personality, and give your kitchen an inviting look. While certain features are important in any kitchen floor tile, there are some features that are especially important for a kitchen. A good kitchen floor tile should be:
  • Tough – Your kitchen floor gets a lot of wear and tear from everything from spilled drinks to dropped pots and pans. You want something that can stand up to all that.
  • Flexible – Some kitchens have more moisture than others, and some have more foot traffic. You want a tile that can stand up to whatever your kitchen dishes out.
  • Durable – Any tile will eventually get worn down by regular use, but it’s worth getting something that’s going to hold up better over time.
  • Non-slip – A slippery tile is dangerous; it’s also incredibly frustrating when you’re trying to rush out the door in the morning.

Hardwood

Hardwood flooring is a great option to consider for the kitchen.
Sample of a hardwood flooring
Hardwood is one of the oldest—and most popular, types of kitchen flooring.
Some of the benefits of this product are:
  • It’s easy to clean
  • It’s easy to install
  • It lasts a long time
  • It looks warm and unique
  • It’s environmentally-friendly
  • It adds significant value to your home
If you’re comparing hardwood to tile or carpet, you’ll want to consider a couple of things:
  • It’s safer than tile or carpeting because it’s less likely to cause a slip-and-fall accident.
  • The cost of hardwood flooring for kitchens is lower than tile or carpeting (depending on the wood and tile types you choose).
  • Hardwood flooring can also be easier to clean than tile or carpeting, especially if you use a good hardwood cleaner regularly.
  • You can polish wood floors easily to maintain their original appearance for years. You should also keep in mind that hardwood tends to scratch over time.
  • Hardwood flooring is also more durable than tile or carpeting, which means that your investment will last longer if you choose hardwood as your floor covering material.

Cork

If you’re thinking about getting cork kitchen flooring for your home, you should know about the different choices available to you. Cork comes from cork trees. It can be harvested without hurting the tree itself. The trees aren’t endangered, and they can harvest the cork from a single tree many times. So, if you’re concerned about the environment, cork flooring is certainly an environmentally friendly choice. You can choose between unfinished and finished cork floors. Unfinished floors have a soft feel that some people prefer. But they also have a small amount of give. That’s one disadvantage when using cork in high-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens. But cork finish flooring also has a smooth texture and is resistant to scratches and stains. It’s also very easy-to-clean, so it’s still a good option to consider for your kitchen. It also comes in a variety of colors to match any decor nearly perfectly. The best thing about cork flooring is its durability. It is immune to water and moisture damage, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. It’s strong enough to hold up even under the heaviest of foot traffic and furniture weight, making it great for family homes with kids and pets running around. Cork Flooring Key Takeaways:
  • Durable
  • Easy to clean
  • Immune to water
  • Good in areas of high foot traffic

Marble

In the last few decades, there has been an explosion of interest in natural materials. People sometimes grow tired of the same old vinyl flooring and want something a little more unique. Marble has all the warmth and character of natural stone combined with a soft surface that makes it easy to stand on for long periods of time. While it may not be as practical as vinyl, marble is making its way into many homes because of its elegant appearance. It offers both beauty and comfort – two qualities that aren’t usually found together in the majority of flooring options. With a longer lifespan than many other types of kitchen floors, this option is able to stand up to heavy amounts of foot traffic while also providing the warm look and feel you want. Marble Flooring Key Takeaways:
  • Durable
  • Attractive
  • Long lifespan
  • Natural appearance


Best Wood Flooring For Kitchen

One of the solid hardwood varieties is the best wooden kitchen flooring. This means you’ll want to choose solid hardwood products like:
  • Oak
  • Maple
  • Cherry
Softer woods like pine will end up denting, which makes it less than ideal for the kitchen. Sometimes people still opt to go with pine because of its rustic appearance. The different colors that each hardwood option offers helps to sway other people. As long as you’re extra vigilant with avoiding accidents and dropping heavy objects, then you might find pine to be an adequate kitchen flooring option. If you’re looking for something a little lighter in appearance, then maple and oak are excellent options to explore. If you want something a little darker, then you’ll want to go with something like mahogany or walnut. The cost of each product will vary depending on the:
  • Finish
  • Thickness
  • Species of wood
With softer hardwood floors, you can expect to pay between $3 and $6 per square foot. For more exotic hardwood floors, you can expect prices of up to $14 per square foot.


Best Vinyl Flooring For Kitchen

The best vinyl flooring material consists of 100% virgin vinyl. This type of vinyl is of excellent quality and has high durability. If you’re a first time buyer of vinyl flooring material, ensure that the flooring material you’re interested in will last long and not damage easily. There are two different types of vinyl flooring. Luxury vinyl flooring, which is also commonly referred to as luxury vinyl tile, and vinyl roll, which is also referred to as vinyl sheet. Luxury vinyl isn’t as easy to install as vinyl sheet, since you have to prepare the subfloor before installing it. However, it tends to last longer than a vinyl roll.


Best Tile For Kitchen Floor

Porcelain tiles are the best for a kitchen floor. They’re available in a variety of colors and patterns, and are popular because they’re economical and clean. Porcelain is also heat-resistant, so it’s a good option if you have an old-fashioned stove or other heat source in your kitchen. You can also use tiles made from natural materials, like ceramic or stone, in kitchens. They’re more difficult to keep clean, but if you wet them down before you mop or scrub them, you’ll do just fine. The biggest drawback is that they’re often quite expensive – especially marble tiles, which are one of the most common natural stone options. Porcelain tile and ceramic tile are two of the most popular types. You can save yourself a lot of money on labor if you try installing these tiles yourself. But be mindful that if installed incorrectly, tiles warp and crack more easily.


Best Flooring For Kitchen on a Budget

The cheapest kitchen flooring option is hardwood-look laminates. They’re easy to install and maintain, and provide warmth and a sense of elegance to any kitchen. The downside is that they scratch easily, so you shouldn’t use them in high-traffic areas. DIYers may like laminate flooring because it’s easy to install. As with many types of laminate flooring, it just clicks into place. If you’re on a budget, tiling the kitchen on your own can also save you a great deal of money. A professional installer will charge up to $10 per square foot. Doing it on your own will cost around $4 per square foot. On the flip side, natural stone is another flooring option to consider if you are not worried about a budget. Natural stone looks unique and can really make your house stand out. But natural stone tiles can cost up to about $10 per square foot.


Best Flooring in Kitchen For Dog Owners

If you have dogs, the best type of flooring for a kitchen is vinyl flooring. And as mentioned earlier, the best vinyl flooring for a kitchen is the luxury vinyl flooring. Your dog will appreciate a soft, comfortable place to rest and relax after a long play session outside. If you have hardwood floors, it can be tempting to let your dog sleep there. But beware that the oils from his fur will damage your floor over time. I hope you’ve enjoyed this article about the best kitchen flooring types. The question ‘what type of flooring is best for a kitchen?’ is complex because everyone has different tastes. However, any one of the options mentioned in this article will serve you well. What’s your favorite kitchen flooring? Let me know in the comments.
Best Flooring for Kitchen; wooden flooring in a show house
Hardwood makes a beautiful kitchen flooring, and enhances the transition into the living room.
The right flooring can help keep your kitchen clean, make it easier to maintain, and protect your family from potential dangers.


Things To Consider When Selecting Kitchen Floor

When selecting a kitchen floor, your main considerations should be a combination of design and function. However, you should remember that many types of flooring materials are available on the market today.

Durability

Considering the durability of your kitchen flooring is essential. Many people make the mistake of buying the cheapest flooring materials available and then regret it later. Spending too little on kitchen flooring is probably one of the biggest mistakes you can ever make. While you might save money now, you’ll pay for it by having to replace or repair the floor frequently. It’s always better to invest in high-quality kitchen flooring materials because of their long-lasting durability and resistance to wear and tear. All floors wear out over time, but some materials wear out faster than others. For example, if you choose vinyl or linoleum for your kitchen flooring, you’ll have to replace it every few years because these types of material tend to wear out very quickly. Stone and ceramic tiles are much more durable than vinyl or linoleum so they’re a better choice if you want your kitchen floor to last for a long time.

Aesthetics

Some people like to go with kitchen flooring options that look more aesthetically appealing. But these may not be as durable to food and liquid spills. You’ll also want to consider the color and pattern of your walls. If you have an eclectic taste in colors, you might want to reconsider if you’re planning on selling in a few years. Choosing the right colors for your kitchen floor can go a long way in increasing the resale value of your home. Neon green flooring with pink walls might not appeal to future homebuyers as much as it does to you, and it’s important to be mindful of that. If you have light-colored walls, choosing a darker floor will help to keep the room looking bright. Besides the above, keep in mind that if you plan on installing a new floor in the kitchen, you need to select one that will fit well with existing cabinets and appliances. After all, you want to ensure that your kitchen doesn’t look like someone has thrown it together by buying individual pieces of furniture from different stores.

Waterproofing

The final essential element in kitchen flooring is how resistant it is to water. Kitchens see a lot of activity, much of which involves liquids. Whether you’re cooking, baking, or washing the dishes, chances are that your floor will get wet. It’s best to choose flooring options that are water resistant, or preferably waterproof. Options like untreated engineered hardwood aren’t ideal, because they can absorb water, swell, and warp.

Ceramic Tiles Check All The Boxes

Ceramic tile is the most popular material for kitchen floors. It’s durable and comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors. When you’re considering tile flooring for a kitchen, consider the amount of dirt and debris that will accumulate on it because it’s bound to happen at some point. Tile is easy to clean, and can withstand heavy foot traffic. That makes it ideal for larger families that are constantly walking through the kitchen. Tile technology is available in waterproof versions that are great for bathrooms or kitchens that deal with a lot of moisture. If you want the look of wood flooring but you’re leaning towards tiles, you might want to consider a tile with a wood design. There are tiles that look like real wood but cost much less than solid wood flooring. And unlike wood floors, you wouldn’t need to refinish them after installation.


Best Kitchen Flooring Material

The best kitchen flooring material is usually highly dependent on your tastes. Some kitchen flooring types that you might choose from include: The right flooring can make a small kitchen look larger, or give a cozy atmosphere to an already large kitchen. Most importantly, the kitchen floor is a walking surface which bears our weight every day. Choosing from the many available kitchen flooring options can be challenging, so I’ll help you look at the benefits and drawbacks of each type. The following sections will investigate the above-mentioned flooring types.

Vinyl

Vinyl kitchen flooring is a versatile option for any kitchen you put it in. It’s extremely durable, easy to clean, and aesthetically pleasing. Since vinyl kitchen flooring comes in many styles and colors, it can fit in nicely with almost any type of kitchen decor. This type of flooring isn’t only suitable for kitchens, but you can use it in bathrooms and laundry rooms, as well. Vinyl flooring consists of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)—a durable material that manufacturers have used in floor coverings for years. Vinyl kitchen flooring comes in tiles or sheets that you can cut to any size you need for your kitchen. The tiles are waterproof and scratch-resistant, making them perfect for kitchens or any areas that are subject to a high amount of foot traffic. Sheets have a patterned surface that mimics other types of floor coverings, like hardwood or stone. You install these sheets by gluing them onto the subfloor. They won’t peel up when the adhesive fails like vinyl tiles might do if they weren’t glued down correctly. If you do end up using vinyl tiles, just follow my easy installation guide to ensure that they’re set properly. Because vinyl sheets are thin, you can place them over almost any existing floor covering, even carpets, without having to remove the original flooring first. Vinyl flooring can stand up to all sorts of moisture and won’t get damaged by exposure to water. This makes it ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Vinyl kitchen flooring can be good quality or poor quality. There are a couple of things you need to consider with vinyl flooring to get the quality you want. While vinyl is scratch-resistant, it may still not be as durable as the other options in this article.

What Makes a Good Vinyl Kitchen Floor?

A good vinyl kitchen floor should be high-grade, durable, and affordable. You’ll want something that works well with the rest of your home’s décor, but doesn’t stand out too much and make your kitchen look tacky and unappealing. You’ll also need to think about the thickness and grade of vinyl used in the product you’re thinking about purchasing. Thicker and higher-grade vinyl will last longer, saving you money in the long run. The grade refers to the product’s quality. Lower grades are easier to manufacture in mass quantities at lower costs. Higher grades go through more processing and tend to last longer. Each type of vinyl has its own pros and cons, so you’ll need to carefully weigh these when making your final decision. For instance:
  • Laminate is smooth and shiny, but may fade over time
  • Textured vinyl is more durable but not as easy to clean
  • Embossed vinyl is stylish but expensive

Tile

Finding the best tile for a kitchen floor can be a daunting task because of the sheer number of options available.
sample of a tile flooring option
Tile flooring can come in unique colors, shapes, and sizes.
For starters, you’ll want to select one that matches the rest of your kitchen. Sometimes people develop the misconception that they have to go with the absolute highest quality of tile that will end up costing them the most. This isn’t necessarily true. Tile comes in many colors and shapes. You’ll want to carefully choose a pattern that suits your kitchen’s decor, cabinetry, and overall design. Tile flooring is durable and you don’t have to replace it if you decide to switch up your kitchen’s style in the future. Tile installation is a renovation project that many DIYers try on their own. It’s a product that can last for years and provide resistance from stains, spills, and splatters. I can’t stress enough how easy it is to clean tile, which makes it perfect for kitchens that are always full of dirty dishes, sticky countertops, and spilled food. Tile is smooth underneath your feet, so you won’t hurt yourself as you move around your kitchen, even if you’re spending long periods of time on it. You can find tile floors in a variety of sizes at home improvement stores and tile specialty shops. The size of your tile floor will depend on how much space you have in your kitchen, as well as how much money you want to spend. The right tile can bring out the best in your kitchen, project a sense of style and personality, and give your kitchen an inviting look. While certain features are important in any kitchen floor tile, there are some features that are especially important for a kitchen. A good kitchen floor tile should be:
  • Tough – Your kitchen floor gets a lot of wear and tear from everything from spilled drinks to dropped pots and pans. You want something that can stand up to all that.
  • Flexible – Some kitchens have more moisture than others, and some have more foot traffic. You want a tile that can stand up to whatever your kitchen dishes out.
  • Durable – Any tile will eventually get worn down by regular use, but it’s worth getting something that’s going to hold up better over time.
  • Non-slip – A slippery tile is dangerous; it’s also incredibly frustrating when you’re trying to rush out the door in the morning.

Hardwood

Hardwood flooring is a great option to consider for the kitchen.
Sample of a hardwood flooring
Hardwood is one of the oldest—and most popular, types of kitchen flooring.
Some of the benefits of this product are:
  • It’s easy to clean
  • It’s easy to install
  • It lasts a long time
  • It looks warm and unique
  • It’s environmentally-friendly
  • It adds significant value to your home
If you’re comparing hardwood to tile or carpet, you’ll want to consider a couple of things:
  • It’s safer than tile or carpeting because it’s less likely to cause a slip-and-fall accident.
  • The cost of hardwood flooring for kitchens is lower than tile or carpeting (depending on the wood and tile types you choose).
  • Hardwood flooring can also be easier to clean than tile or carpeting, especially if you use a good hardwood cleaner regularly.
  • You can polish wood floors easily to maintain their original appearance for years. You should also keep in mind that hardwood tends to scratch over time.
  • Hardwood flooring is also more durable than tile or carpeting, which means that your investment will last longer if you choose hardwood as your floor covering material.

Cork

If you’re thinking about getting cork kitchen flooring for your home, you should know about the different choices available to you. Cork comes from cork trees. It can be harvested without hurting the tree itself. The trees aren’t endangered, and they can harvest the cork from a single tree many times. So, if you’re concerned about the environment, cork flooring is certainly an environmentally friendly choice. You can choose between unfinished and finished cork floors. Unfinished floors have a soft feel that some people prefer. But they also have a small amount of give. That’s one disadvantage when using cork in high-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens. But cork finish flooring also has a smooth texture and is resistant to scratches and stains. It’s also very easy-to-clean, so it’s still a good option to consider for your kitchen. It also comes in a variety of colors to match any decor nearly perfectly. The best thing about cork flooring is its durability. It is immune to water and moisture damage, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. It’s strong enough to hold up even under the heaviest of foot traffic and furniture weight, making it great for family homes with kids and pets running around. Cork Flooring Key Takeaways:
  • Durable
  • Easy to clean
  • Immune to water
  • Good in areas of high foot traffic

Marble

In the last few decades, there has been an explosion of interest in natural materials. People sometimes grow tired of the same old vinyl flooring and want something a little more unique. Marble has all the warmth and character of natural stone combined with a soft surface that makes it easy to stand on for long periods of time. While it may not be as practical as vinyl, marble is making its way into many homes because of its elegant appearance. It offers both beauty and comfort – two qualities that aren’t usually found together in the majority of flooring options. With a longer lifespan than many other types of kitchen floors, this option is able to stand up to heavy amounts of foot traffic while also providing the warm look and feel you want. Marble Flooring Key Takeaways:
  • Durable
  • Attractive
  • Long lifespan
  • Natural appearance


Best Wood Flooring For Kitchen

One of the solid hardwood varieties is the best wooden kitchen flooring. This means you’ll want to choose solid hardwood products like:
  • Oak
  • Maple
  • Cherry
Softer woods like pine will end up denting, which makes it less than ideal for the kitchen. Sometimes people still opt to go with pine because of its rustic appearance. The different colors that each hardwood option offers helps to sway other people. As long as you’re extra vigilant with avoiding accidents and dropping heavy objects, then you might find pine to be an adequate kitchen flooring option. If you’re looking for something a little lighter in appearance, then maple and oak are excellent options to explore. If you want something a little darker, then you’ll want to go with something like mahogany or walnut. The cost of each product will vary depending on the:
  • Finish
  • Thickness
  • Species of wood
With softer hardwood floors, you can expect to pay between $3 and $6 per square foot. For more exotic hardwood floors, you can expect prices of up to $14 per square foot.


Best Vinyl Flooring For Kitchen

The best vinyl flooring material consists of 100% virgin vinyl. This type of vinyl is of excellent quality and has high durability. If you’re a first time buyer of vinyl flooring material, ensure that the flooring material you’re interested in will last long and not damage easily. There are two different types of vinyl flooring. Luxury vinyl flooring, which is also commonly referred to as luxury vinyl tile, and vinyl roll, which is also referred to as vinyl sheet. Luxury vinyl isn’t as easy to install as vinyl sheet, since you have to prepare the subfloor before installing it. However, it tends to last longer than a vinyl roll.


Best Tile For Kitchen Floor

Porcelain tiles are the best for a kitchen floor. They’re available in a variety of colors and patterns, and are popular because they’re economical and clean. Porcelain is also heat-resistant, so it’s a good option if you have an old-fashioned stove or other heat source in your kitchen. You can also use tiles made from natural materials, like ceramic or stone, in kitchens. They’re more difficult to keep clean, but if you wet them down before you mop or scrub them, you’ll do just fine. The biggest drawback is that they’re often quite expensive – especially marble tiles, which are one of the most common natural stone options. Porcelain tile and ceramic tile are two of the most popular types. You can save yourself a lot of money on labor if you try installing these tiles yourself. But be mindful that if installed incorrectly, tiles warp and crack more easily.


Best Flooring For Kitchen on a Budget

The cheapest kitchen flooring option is hardwood-look laminates. They’re easy to install and maintain, and provide warmth and a sense of elegance to any kitchen. The downside is that they scratch easily, so you shouldn’t use them in high-traffic areas. DIYers may like laminate flooring because it’s easy to install. As with many types of laminate flooring, it just clicks into place. If you’re on a budget, tiling the kitchen on your own can also save you a great deal of money. A professional installer will charge up to $10 per square foot. Doing it on your own will cost around $4 per square foot. On the flip side, natural stone is another flooring option to consider if you are not worried about a budget. Natural stone looks unique and can really make your house stand out. But natural stone tiles can cost up to about $10 per square foot.


Best Flooring in Kitchen For Dog Owners

If you have dogs, the best type of flooring for a kitchen is vinyl flooring. And as mentioned earlier, the best vinyl flooring for a kitchen is the luxury vinyl flooring. Your dog will appreciate a soft, comfortable place to rest and relax after a long play session outside. If you have hardwood floors, it can be tempting to let your dog sleep there. But beware that the oils from his fur will damage your floor over time. I hope you’ve enjoyed this article about the best kitchen flooring types. The question ‘what type of flooring is best for a kitchen?’ is complex because everyone has different tastes. However, any one of the options mentioned in this article will serve you well. What’s your favorite kitchen flooring? Let me know in the comments.

Best Flooring for Kitchen: Expert Advice on What & How to Choose

The best flooring for kitchen will stand the test of time and have the durability to withstand liquids, food spills, and lots of foot traffic. A kitchen is the heart of a home. Most people use their kitchens several times a day, leading to heavy wear and tear on the finish of the flooring. Because of that, it makes sense to have kitchen flooring that’s both aesthetically pleasing and durable at the same time.
Best Flooring for Kitchen; wooden flooring in a show house
Hardwood makes a beautiful kitchen flooring, and enhances the transition into the living room.
The right flooring can help keep your kitchen clean, make it easier to maintain, and protect your family from potential dangers.


Things To Consider When Selecting Kitchen Floor

When selecting a kitchen floor, your main considerations should be a combination of design and function. However, you should remember that many types of flooring materials are available on the market today.

Durability

Considering the durability of your kitchen flooring is essential. Many people make the mistake of buying the cheapest flooring materials available and then regret it later. Spending too little on kitchen flooring is probably one of the biggest mistakes you can ever make. While you might save money now, you’ll pay for it by having to replace or repair the floor frequently. It’s always better to invest in high-quality kitchen flooring materials because of their long-lasting durability and resistance to wear and tear. All floors wear out over time, but some materials wear out faster than others. For example, if you choose vinyl or linoleum for your kitchen flooring, you’ll have to replace it every few years because these types of material tend to wear out very quickly. Stone and ceramic tiles are much more durable than vinyl or linoleum so they’re a better choice if you want your kitchen floor to last for a long time.

Aesthetics

Some people like to go with kitchen flooring options that look more aesthetically appealing. But these may not be as durable to food and liquid spills. You’ll also want to consider the color and pattern of your walls. If you have an eclectic taste in colors, you might want to reconsider if you’re planning on selling in a few years. Choosing the right colors for your kitchen floor can go a long way in increasing the resale value of your home. Neon green flooring with pink walls might not appeal to future homebuyers as much as it does to you, and it’s important to be mindful of that. If you have light-colored walls, choosing a darker floor will help to keep the room looking bright. Besides the above, keep in mind that if you plan on installing a new floor in the kitchen, you need to select one that will fit well with existing cabinets and appliances. After all, you want to ensure that your kitchen doesn’t look like someone has thrown it together by buying individual pieces of furniture from different stores.

Waterproofing

The final essential element in kitchen flooring is how resistant it is to water. Kitchens see a lot of activity, much of which involves liquids. Whether you’re cooking, baking, or washing the dishes, chances are that your floor will get wet. It’s best to choose flooring options that are water resistant, or preferably waterproof. Options like untreated engineered hardwood aren’t ideal, because they can absorb water, swell, and warp.

Ceramic Tiles Check All The Boxes

Ceramic tile is the most popular material for kitchen floors. It’s durable and comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors. When you’re considering tile flooring for a kitchen, consider the amount of dirt and debris that will accumulate on it because it’s bound to happen at some point. Tile is easy to clean, and can withstand heavy foot traffic. That makes it ideal for larger families that are constantly walking through the kitchen. Tile technology is available in waterproof versions that are great for bathrooms or kitchens that deal with a lot of moisture. If you want the look of wood flooring but you’re leaning towards tiles, you might want to consider a tile with a wood design. There are tiles that look like real wood but cost much less than solid wood flooring. And unlike wood floors, you wouldn’t need to refinish them after installation.


Best Kitchen Flooring Material

The best kitchen flooring material is usually highly dependent on your tastes. Some kitchen flooring types that you might choose from include: The right flooring can make a small kitchen look larger, or give a cozy atmosphere to an already large kitchen. Most importantly, the kitchen floor is a walking surface which bears our weight every day. Choosing from the many available kitchen flooring options can be challenging, so I’ll help you look at the benefits and drawbacks of each type. The following sections will investigate the above-mentioned flooring types.

Vinyl

Vinyl kitchen flooring is a versatile option for any kitchen you put it in. It’s extremely durable, easy to clean, and aesthetically pleasing. Since vinyl kitchen flooring comes in many styles and colors, it can fit in nicely with almost any type of kitchen decor. This type of flooring isn’t only suitable for kitchens, but you can use it in bathrooms and laundry rooms, as well. Vinyl flooring consists of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)—a durable material that manufacturers have used in floor coverings for years. Vinyl kitchen flooring comes in tiles or sheets that you can cut to any size you need for your kitchen. The tiles are waterproof and scratch-resistant, making them perfect for kitchens or any areas that are subject to a high amount of foot traffic. Sheets have a patterned surface that mimics other types of floor coverings, like hardwood or stone. You install these sheets by gluing them onto the subfloor. They won’t peel up when the adhesive fails like vinyl tiles might do if they weren’t glued down correctly. If you do end up using vinyl tiles, just follow my easy installation guide to ensure that they’re set properly. Because vinyl sheets are thin, you can place them over almost any existing floor covering, even carpets, without having to remove the original flooring first. Vinyl flooring can stand up to all sorts of moisture and won’t get damaged by exposure to water. This makes it ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Vinyl kitchen flooring can be good quality or poor quality. There are a couple of things you need to consider with vinyl flooring to get the quality you want. While vinyl is scratch-resistant, it may still not be as durable as the other options in this article.

What Makes a Good Vinyl Kitchen Floor?

A good vinyl kitchen floor should be high-grade, durable, and affordable. You’ll want something that works well with the rest of your home’s décor, but doesn’t stand out too much and make your kitchen look tacky and unappealing. You’ll also need to think about the thickness and grade of vinyl used in the product you’re thinking about purchasing. Thicker and higher-grade vinyl will last longer, saving you money in the long run. The grade refers to the product’s quality. Lower grades are easier to manufacture in mass quantities at lower costs. Higher grades go through more processing and tend to last longer. Each type of vinyl has its own pros and cons, so you’ll need to carefully weigh these when making your final decision. For instance:
  • Laminate is smooth and shiny, but may fade over time
  • Textured vinyl is more durable but not as easy to clean
  • Embossed vinyl is stylish but expensive

Tile

Finding the best tile for a kitchen floor can be a daunting task because of the sheer number of options available.
sample of a tile flooring option
Tile flooring can come in unique colors, shapes, and sizes.
For starters, you’ll want to select one that matches the rest of your kitchen. Sometimes people develop the misconception that they have to go with the absolute highest quality of tile that will end up costing them the most. This isn’t necessarily true. Tile comes in many colors and shapes. You’ll want to carefully choose a pattern that suits your kitchen’s decor, cabinetry, and overall design. Tile flooring is durable and you don’t have to replace it if you decide to switch up your kitchen’s style in the future. Tile installation is a renovation project that many DIYers try on their own. It’s a product that can last for years and provide resistance from stains, spills, and splatters. I can’t stress enough how easy it is to clean tile, which makes it perfect for kitchens that are always full of dirty dishes, sticky countertops, and spilled food. Tile is smooth underneath your feet, so you won’t hurt yourself as you move around your kitchen, even if you’re spending long periods of time on it. You can find tile floors in a variety of sizes at home improvement stores and tile specialty shops. The size of your tile floor will depend on how much space you have in your kitchen, as well as how much money you want to spend. The right tile can bring out the best in your kitchen, project a sense of style and personality, and give your kitchen an inviting look. While certain features are important in any kitchen floor tile, there are some features that are especially important for a kitchen. A good kitchen floor tile should be:
  • Tough – Your kitchen floor gets a lot of wear and tear from everything from spilled drinks to dropped pots and pans. You want something that can stand up to all that.
  • Flexible – Some kitchens have more moisture than others, and some have more foot traffic. You want a tile that can stand up to whatever your kitchen dishes out.
  • Durable – Any tile will eventually get worn down by regular use, but it’s worth getting something that’s going to hold up better over time.
  • Non-slip – A slippery tile is dangerous; it’s also incredibly frustrating when you’re trying to rush out the door in the morning.

Hardwood

Hardwood flooring is a great option to consider for the kitchen.
Sample of a hardwood flooring
Hardwood is one of the oldest—and most popular, types of kitchen flooring.
Some of the benefits of this product are:
  • It’s easy to clean
  • It’s easy to install
  • It lasts a long time
  • It looks warm and unique
  • It’s environmentally-friendly
  • It adds significant value to your home
If you’re comparing hardwood to tile or carpet, you’ll want to consider a couple of things:
  • It’s safer than tile or carpeting because it’s less likely to cause a slip-and-fall accident.
  • The cost of hardwood flooring for kitchens is lower than tile or carpeting (depending on the wood and tile types you choose).
  • Hardwood flooring can also be easier to clean than tile or carpeting, especially if you use a good hardwood cleaner regularly.
  • You can polish wood floors easily to maintain their original appearance for years. You should also keep in mind that hardwood tends to scratch over time.
  • Hardwood flooring is also more durable than tile or carpeting, which means that your investment will last longer if you choose hardwood as your floor covering material.

Cork

If you’re thinking about getting cork kitchen flooring for your home, you should know about the different choices available to you. Cork comes from cork trees. It can be harvested without hurting the tree itself. The trees aren’t endangered, and they can harvest the cork from a single tree many times. So, if you’re concerned about the environment, cork flooring is certainly an environmentally friendly choice. You can choose between unfinished and finished cork floors. Unfinished floors have a soft feel that some people prefer. But they also have a small amount of give. That’s one disadvantage when using cork in high-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens. But cork finish flooring also has a smooth texture and is resistant to scratches and stains. It’s also very easy-to-clean, so it’s still a good option to consider for your kitchen. It also comes in a variety of colors to match any decor nearly perfectly. The best thing about cork flooring is its durability. It is immune to water and moisture damage, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. It’s strong enough to hold up even under the heaviest of foot traffic and furniture weight, making it great for family homes with kids and pets running around. Cork Flooring Key Takeaways:
  • Durable
  • Easy to clean
  • Immune to water
  • Good in areas of high foot traffic

Marble

In the last few decades, there has been an explosion of interest in natural materials. People sometimes grow tired of the same old vinyl flooring and want something a little more unique. Marble has all the warmth and character of natural stone combined with a soft surface that makes it easy to stand on for long periods of time. While it may not be as practical as vinyl, marble is making its way into many homes because of its elegant appearance. It offers both beauty and comfort – two qualities that aren’t usually found together in the majority of flooring options. With a longer lifespan than many other types of kitchen floors, this option is able to stand up to heavy amounts of foot traffic while also providing the warm look and feel you want. Marble Flooring Key Takeaways:
  • Durable
  • Attractive
  • Long lifespan
  • Natural appearance


Best Wood Flooring For Kitchen

One of the solid hardwood varieties is the best wooden kitchen flooring. This means you’ll want to choose solid hardwood products like:
  • Oak
  • Maple
  • Cherry
Softer woods like pine will end up denting, which makes it less than ideal for the kitchen. Sometimes people still opt to go with pine because of its rustic appearance. The different colors that each hardwood option offers helps to sway other people. As long as you’re extra vigilant with avoiding accidents and dropping heavy objects, then you might find pine to be an adequate kitchen flooring option. If you’re looking for something a little lighter in appearance, then maple and oak are excellent options to explore. If you want something a little darker, then you’ll want to go with something like mahogany or walnut. The cost of each product will vary depending on the:
  • Finish
  • Thickness
  • Species of wood
With softer hardwood floors, you can expect to pay between $3 and $6 per square foot. For more exotic hardwood floors, you can expect prices of up to $14 per square foot.


Best Vinyl Flooring For Kitchen

The best vinyl flooring material consists of 100% virgin vinyl. This type of vinyl is of excellent quality and has high durability. If you’re a first time buyer of vinyl flooring material, ensure that the flooring material you’re interested in will last long and not damage easily. There are two different types of vinyl flooring. Luxury vinyl flooring, which is also commonly referred to as luxury vinyl tile, and vinyl roll, which is also referred to as vinyl sheet. Luxury vinyl isn’t as easy to install as vinyl sheet, since you have to prepare the subfloor before installing it. However, it tends to last longer than a vinyl roll.


Best Tile For Kitchen Floor

Porcelain tiles are the best for a kitchen floor. They’re available in a variety of colors and patterns, and are popular because they’re economical and clean. Porcelain is also heat-resistant, so it’s a good option if you have an old-fashioned stove or other heat source in your kitchen. You can also use tiles made from natural materials, like ceramic or stone, in kitchens. They’re more difficult to keep clean, but if you wet them down before you mop or scrub them, you’ll do just fine. The biggest drawback is that they’re often quite expensive – especially marble tiles, which are one of the most common natural stone options. Porcelain tile and ceramic tile are two of the most popular types. You can save yourself a lot of money on labor if you try installing these tiles yourself. But be mindful that if installed incorrectly, tiles warp and crack more easily.


Best Flooring For Kitchen on a Budget

The cheapest kitchen flooring option is hardwood-look laminates. They’re easy to install and maintain, and provide warmth and a sense of elegance to any kitchen. The downside is that they scratch easily, so you shouldn’t use them in high-traffic areas. DIYers may like laminate flooring because it’s easy to install. As with many types of laminate flooring, it just clicks into place. If you’re on a budget, tiling the kitchen on your own can also save you a great deal of money. A professional installer will charge up to $10 per square foot. Doing it on your own will cost around $4 per square foot. On the flip side, natural stone is another flooring option to consider if you are not worried about a budget. Natural stone looks unique and can really make your house stand out. But natural stone tiles can cost up to about $10 per square foot.


Best Flooring in Kitchen For Dog Owners

If you have dogs, the best type of flooring for a kitchen is vinyl flooring. And as mentioned earlier, the best vinyl flooring for a kitchen is the luxury vinyl flooring. Your dog will appreciate a soft, comfortable place to rest and relax after a long play session outside. If you have hardwood floors, it can be tempting to let your dog sleep there. But beware that the oils from his fur will damage your floor over time. I hope you’ve enjoyed this article about the best kitchen flooring types. The question ‘what type of flooring is best for a kitchen?’ is complex because everyone has different tastes. However, any one of the options mentioned in this article will serve you well. What’s your favorite kitchen flooring? Let me know in the comments.

Average Cost To Install New Flooring Price Range: $1,215 - $2,460
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