Vinyl
Vinyl is a popular kitchen flooring option because of its water and stain resistance and ease of install. As a human-made material, vinyl is a cinch to clean and resistant to stains or water issues. Vinyl also can be incredibly easy and cost-effective to install, especially if your subfloor is in good shape. Another advantage of vinyl kitchen flooring is that it is cushiony, which is nice for your joints if you spend a lot of time cooking.
The only downside to vinyl is long-term durability. Although some high-quality vinyl can last for up to 20 years, it often starts to show wear and tear sooner than that. It also has the potential to dent or scratch like other softer flooring materials. But nevertheless, for a fraction of the price of other kitchen flooring materials, vinyl can provide a chic look and provide the comfort and stain resistance you need in your kitchen.
Tile
It is no surprise that this is one of the most common kitchen flooring types because there are many compelling reasons to choose tile. There are so many shapes and styles of tile flooring that you can customize the look of your kitchen to however you want. Tile is also incredibly hygienic, which is important in preventing the spread of germs in the kitchen. It's easy to mop up after spills and is water resistant.
As one of the hardest types of flooring, tile is extremely durable, which is suitable for a high trafficked kitchen. Tile can also be cold in winter time and can amplify sound. If you are worried about standing on tile for long periods of time or about the cold, you can always invest in some kitchen mats or rugs.
Wood Flooring
Hardwood floors are a popular choice for kitchens because they set a classic, timeless look, and they are highly durable. When appropriately treated, wood flooring can last a lifetime. Wood flooring can also be sanded and refinished for improved longevity and durability.
There are some downsides to wood flooring in a kitchen though. Wood is prone to scratches, so pets and shoes can be problematic for this type of flooring. You also have to stay on top of any spills with wood flooring, or you run the risk of stains or water damage. If your kitchen is heavily trafficked and cooked in, wood may not be the right fit for your kitchen.
Linoleum
If you are in the market for a trendy flooring option, linoleum might be the right fit for your kitchen. Made of natural materials like linseed oil, wood flour, limestone, linoleum is a biodegradable, eco-friendly floor. It can withstand high foot traffic and spills and comes in a variety of colors and styles allowing you similar customization options to tile flooring. Its surface repels dust and dirt, making it a hygienic kitchen option.
If you do go with the linoleum option, you will want to make sure to wipe up any spills right away to resist stains. Standing water for a long period of time can cause damage. Linoleum can also be tricky to install, so it's best to hire a professional.
Do you have a better idea what style of kitchen flooring is right for you? Or would you like to talk through your options in more depth with a professional? Get in touch with the Denver Carpet and Flooring team, and we'll help you find the perfect option for your home.