Kitchens have to content with a lot – they can get all manner of things spilled and dropped on them and are high traffic areas of the home. So what type of flooring best suits the kitchen in terms of not only style, but also practicality? Here are some of the best options:
Cork
Cork is fast becoming one of the favored options for those who are eco-minded, but there are plenty of other beneficial features that make it a great choice for the kitchen. Firstly, it’s naturally springy and softer than traditional hard wood, so if you’re running around and standing on it all day it’s kinder on your body. Secondly it’s a natural insulator, reducing sound as well as your energy bill. Thirdly, it’s even resistant to water and heat. Lastly it comes in a range of different styles – oh and it’s super affordable. All of the above make cork a clear frontrunner in the kitchen flooring stakes.
Linoleum
Another reasonably priced and stylish option is linoleum. People often presume it’s the same material as vinyl; however the latter is much worse for the environment as it’s a synthetic product made with chemicals. Linoleum on the other hand is made using linseed oil, resin, and other natural components, making it biodegradable. As it is not a printed pattern (the design goes all the way through to the backing) scratches are not as visible, making it one of the more durable choices. It is easy to clean and comes in a variety of options including sheets, tiles, and panels.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain is the hardier cousin of ceramic; it’s fired at a higher temperature making it extremely durable and stain resistant – two incredibly useful features for the kitchen. Not only is it tough, its low maintenance too and mimics the appearance of stone tiles at a much lower cost.
Laminate
Finally we have laminate, which takes on the appearance of stone or hardwood without the price tag. It’s durable and comes in a huge array of finishes and styles – it’s getting harder and harder to tell laminate from the real thing. One thing to bear in mind is you will need to install the correct underlay to protect from moisture.
