Your kitchen is one of the highest activity areas in your entire house so it makes a lot of sense to give special attention to it. Whether you have a big family or you stay alone, you’ll certainly want functional and durable flooring for your kitchen. Waterproof floors are oftentimes the ideal choice as it’s not a great sight to see your floors failing due to splatters and spills – which are inevitable in any kitchen.
Remember that asides from bathrooms, your kitchen is one place highly exposed to a lot of moisture. From washing dishes to cooking and even to your refrigerator, there are bound to be a few spills and splashes per time.
The best kitchen floors are those that can handle all sorts without getting damaged and that is why we have put together the top waterproof flooring options you should have in your kitchen this year.
There are different materials for kitchen flooring and their prices often vary but take a look at the best and most cost-effective waterproof flooring for your kitchen.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl tile is 100% waterproof and with the several upgrades it has received in the last couple of years, it is no surprise that it is one of the most common kitchen floorings in modern homes today. Engineered vinyl floorings can now be designed or finished to look like hardwood, natural stone, or other expensive flooring materials. You can have vinyl tile or vinyl plank. Some manufacturers may also refer to it as Luxury Vinyl Tile.
While it is not advisable to drag heavy appliances over vinyl flooring, it is quite very comfortable for your feet and easy to clean. One of the best things about vinyl flooring is that you can install it yourself without professional assistance. You can however bring in a professional flooring installation company if you want more complex styles and designs.
Ceramic and Porcelain Flooring
Ceramic and porcelain are also 100% waterproof and so can handle all degrees of spills and splatters. Ceramic tiles are made from clay baked to a finish and they come in a variety of beautiful shapes, colors, and patterns. Porcelain tiles, which are the most popular styles of ceramic tiles are made to be very durable and easy to clean. However, because of the manufacturing process and finishing, ceramic tiles can be quite slippery when wet and dishes dropped on them will most likely break.
Also, keep in mind that although ceramic or porcelain tiles do not get damaged by moisture, messes can leave a stain if not cleaned up quickly. One way to maintain the quality of your tiles is by regularly cleaning them.
Hardwood
There is a reason why hardwood is one of the most luxurious and popular choices for kitchen flooring. They are durable, homey, warm, and stylish. Hardwood in itself is not waterproof but water-resistant, however, properly finished solid hardwood is waterproof and makes a very suitable flooring material for your kitchen. They are much more durable than laminate or engineered hardwood floors although they need to be cleaned regularly to ensure they remain in the best conditions for the longest time.
Another great thing about solid hardwood is its versatility. Depending on your choice, hardwood flooring can have a variety of finishes. It could be slippery or have hand-scraped or distressed finishes. Lighter finishes are more common in recent times but a lot of people still prefer the natural and more traditional walnut and cherry finishes.
Waterproof Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring has always been a common choice of kitchen flooring however the introduction of waterproof laminate flooring is an entire game changer. Waterproof laminate is manufactured with waterproof material that enhances its rigid core and increases its strength, durability, and stability. Several homeowners often opt for laminate flooring in their kitchens because it is an inexpensive way to get a traditional hardwood look. The additional waterproof properties of this type of flooring now make it an even better choice.
Like hardwood flooring, waterproof laminate flooring can come in different colors, patterns, and finishes including hand-scraped, distressed, rustic, and other contemporary looks. Waterproof laminate comes in a more naturalistic-looking style with planks that can withstand spills and splashes. Another advantage of this kitchen flooring is the flexibility of its installation.
Natural Stone
Limestone, travertine, granite, and slate are popular variations of natural stone because of their unique veining and color options. While some of these stones are more hardwearing than others, they are all very durable and waterproof. Natural stone is first sealed and then resealed to protect its surface from etches caused by spilled acidic substances and certain sodas. The finishes can be tumbled if you prefer more aged or antique-looking kitchen floors and they can also be polished to have a light-reflecting shine. The stones may scratch after years of use and the surface may sometimes collect dirt but these do not outweigh the durable, easy-to-clean, stylish, and waterproof features of natural stone flooring.
Concrete Flooring
Concrete flooring may not be a very popular choice for homey areas like the kitchen, but they are actually a very sturdy option. Concrete flooring can be sealed to be waterproof and it can also be designed to look like wood, natural stone, and even tiles. New techniques can transform the grey cold floors that come to mind when one thinks of ‘concrete floors’ into something much more stunning, luxurious, and functional.
Concrete flooring is also one of the cheapest kitchen flooring options available and since they can come in a variety of styles, you can enjoy the benefits of a very stylish and durable kitchen floor even on a tight budget. Not only will you not need to worry about spills and stains, but pets, shoes, and furniture legs will not also be a source of concern.
Conclusion
Regardless of your budget or preferred style, there is always a perfect choice of kitchen flooring for you. Your final decision will no doubt depend on several factors but it is advisable to choose one that is stylish, comfortable as well as stain and moisture-resistant. Any of the kitchen flooring mentioned above will make a suitable choice in any home.
