What is the Best Type of Flooring for Kitchens?

A kitchen is an important room — some would argue it’s the most important place in the house. It has to be functional, efficient, comfortable, and clean. It’s often the central gathering spot in the home, and as such, it deserves to have high-quality materials that stand the test of time.

That’s true not just for the cabinets, light fixtures, appliances, and backsplash. It’s also true for the flooring. You can’t just throw any type of flooring down in the kitchen — it’s got to be the right type of flooring for this special space.

So, what is the best type of flooring for kitchens? Let’s talk through some of the most popular options we’ve seen our clients use recently.

Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

Why do many homeowners choose luxury vinyl plank flooring for their kitchens? It’s durable and beautiful. This material is fully moisture-proof and impervious to wear and tear. It’s completely resistant to water damage and most stains — something kitchens see often.

In terms of appearance, luxury vinyl plank flooring is attractive. It comes in a variety of colors, textures, grains, and sizes. Luxury vinyl plank is thicker than traditional vinyl flooring, so it has a softer, more cushioned feel against the feet. Many people would argue that when it comes to aesthetics, you can’t even tell it’s not real hardwood.

We also love luxury vinyl plank flooring because it’s fairly straightforward to install, as many types are made for easy click-lock installation.

Hardwood Flooring

Many homeowners love the aesthetic appeal of real hardwood floors. When blending this type of kitchen flooring with your other design choices, you have many options, since hardwood flooring comes in a variety of grains, textures, colors, and sizes.

Are you looking for flooring that holds up well over time and is easy to care for? As long as the hardwood flooring you select is high quality and is installed and sealed properly, it’s fairly simple to maintain. Simply sweep and wipe with a barely-damp mop or hardwood cleaner as needed.

Another plus is that wood flooring will always be in style, and it looks great in practically any room in the house — including kitchens. Hardwood almost always adds value to a home and is also ideal for resale.

Ceramic Floor Tile

One tried and true type of flooring for kitchens is ceramic tile. It’s a classic, functional and appealing material that many homeowners gravitate towards, and for good reason. There are so many options with colors, patterns, and sizes.

For example, using ceramic tile to create a mosaic in your kitchen is the perfect way to add unique style and flair to a kitchen remodel. It creates a stunning focal point in the room. If an original mosaic isn’t right for you, try a unique pattern like a herringbone or chevron layout. This adds a custom touch to your kitchen that will truly set it apart.

The other obvious reason ceramic floor tile is beloved for kitchens: It’s stain and spill-resistant. Messes are fairly easy to clean up and it’s not high maintenance. Simply use traditional cleaners and mops to keep the flooring in tip-top shape.

Natural Stone Flooring

If you want something on the luxurious side, the best type of flooring for kitchens is natural stone flooring like marble. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind, beautiful way to finish a kitchen, and it’s elegant, classy, and sophisticated. Marble looks good with almost any color scheme and style, too.

While it’s stunning and durable in a kitchen, keep in mind that marble flooring is on the expensive side. If you want something high-end, expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $20 per sq/ft.

No matter which kitchen flooring you’re considering for your renovation, you’re bound to find something you love. There are so many styles, materials, colors, and textures out there to pick from. Think about the look, maintenance level, and price point that’s right for you, then go from there.

Kitchen Remodeling & Redesign Solutions

Every home deserves a kitchen that’s beautiful, welcoming, and functional — designed for the way you live. Established by two long-time central Ohio homebuilders and craftsmen, The Creative Kitchen Co. offers customized kitchen remodeling and refacing solutions. Contact us for more information.