Kitchen Flooring

Kitchens tend to be the area of the house that sees the most activity. Adults in the USA spend an average of 67 minutes daily in their kitchens, which is over 400 hours annually.

During that time, your kitchen floor needs to keep up with dropped dishes, spilled water, oil, stains, and overall wear. 

Aside from that, the kitchen can also be a place where people gather for dinner, so you would likely need flooring that is not only practical but also complements the ambiance.

Practicality vs. Comfort

The kitchen needs to balance practicality and comfort, as you'll likely be standing there for prolonged periods of time. You want a floor that can withstand the rigors of daily activity while still offering a welcoming feel. Consider the trade-offs between hard, durable surfaces that are easy to clean and softer options that might be more forgiving underfoot but could be less resistant to spills and wear.

Features You'll Want in Kitchen Flooring Include:

• Durability to handle foot traffic and potential impacts

• Stain resistance for those inevitable spills

• Water resistance to protect against leaks and splashes

• Ease of maintenance because cleaning shouldn't be a chore

• A touch of comfort underfoot, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet

Suitable Flooring Options

Ceramic or porcelain tile is a popular kitchen choice due to its durability, stain resistance, and waterproof qualities. Remember that tile doesn't have to be uncomfortable and that it can offer a pretty nice underfoot feel and acoustics.

Luxury vinyl tiles or planks are also great alternatives, as they are water-resistant and mimic the look of various materials at a lower price point. LVP can give you the necessary durability and practicality while creating a stylish and welcoming atmosphere in the kitchen.

Hardwood is another beautiful option, but be sure to choose a hard-wearing variety and prioritize sealing it well to protect it from moisture. This usually means professional installation, but the results are almost always worth it.