Are you hoping to give a new look to your kitchen? If so, there are a number of different remodeling projects which you can undertake.
A great way to bring a new aesthetic to your kitchen is by replacing its flooring. When it comes to kitchen flooring materials, there is quite a wide variety to choose from. Each different type of material carries its very own benefits and drawbacks.
Let’s discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each.
1. Hardwood
Growing in popularity, hardwood floors are a great option for a number of different reasons. Not only are they exceptionally durable when maintained properly, they provide a classy and elegant aesthetic as well.
There are both natural and manufactured hardwood flooring materials available. While manufactured hardwoods are generally more durable and functional overall, natural hardwoods sport an appearance that is hard to beat.
2. Cork
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, you might be interested in cork flooring. This type of flooring is soft, yet sturdy, offering tons of traction. It can be a great option for those who spend a lot of time on their feet cooking.
The downside to cork is that it requires quite a bit of maintenance. You must seal it every two to three years to protect it from moisture. However, if you’re up to the task, there’s no reason to not go for it.
3. Bamboo
A flooring material which possesses a similar look to hardwood flooring is bamboo. This material is manufactured by slicing bamboo and then piecing it back together. The result is a narrow-grain wood which sports a series of vertical lines.
Some find bamboo appealing because of its low impact on the environment. Bamboo grows quickly, making it a highly renewable resource.
Though bamboo sports an attractive aesthetic, its lifespan is typically limited when compared to other flooring materials. This has a lot to do with the manufacturing quality of some bamboo flooring. Whereas some bamboo flooring is impeccably constructed, some bamboo flooring is thrown together quickly without much thought.
The result? Inconsistency.
4. Vinyl
While vinyl flooring is typically not aesthetically astounding, it is ridiculously durable and extremely affordable. After vinyl flooring has been laid, it requires essentially no maintenance whatsoever. Plus, it’s exceedingly soft, making it great for those who cook on the regular basis.
If you’re willing to overlook appearance in favor of quality and value, vinyl flooring is likely the flooring for you. Apart from its aesthetic, it’s about as reliable a flooring material as you’re going to find.
5. Concrete
If you’re looking to obtain a more modern look in your kitchen, you might opt for concrete flooring. Concrete not only looks great, it thrives through wear and tear of all kinds. Rarely do you ever have to perform maintenance on a concrete floor.
The tradeoff, of course, is increased hardness. If you’re an avid cook, concrete floors can start to take their toll on your feet and legs in just a short time. Not to mention, concrete is fairly vulnerable to cracking, specifically if something heavy is dropped on it.
6. Stone
One last kitchen flooring option is stone. Aesthetically-pleasing and easy to repair, it will definitely add a unique look to your kitchen.
Unfortunately, stone flooring is expensive, and, despite its expense, vulnerable to destruction. Not only can stone flooring be easily damaged, it’s vulnerable to cold as well. In essence, the only reason you should consider stone flooring is if your value the aesthetic over all else.
Looking to Install New Floors in Your Kitchen?
Have you decided on a flooring material for your kitchen? Are you ready to start the installation process? If so, JM Remodeling can help.
We’ve been remodeling kitchens in and around Milwaukee for over 25 years and know everything there is to know about kitchen flooring materials. Regardless of which material you desire, we can accommodate you.
Contact us today to start the process!