How to Choose the Right Kitchen Floor

Posted on: 2nd November 2017

There are many factors to take into account when choosing a new kitchen floor. The look of the floor is usually top of most people’s lists – if you’re spending the time and money to redo a kitchen why pick anything other than magazine-worthy beauty? But the durability, hygiene, comfort, and water- and slip-resistance should all be major considerations too. Here at Reform we’ve installed more than a few dozen kitchen floors in our time and we know what makes a perfect, lasting, floor. 

Durability

Kitchens see a lot of wear and tear. A good kitchen floor must be easy-to-clean (in case you spill a pot of Bolognese) and tough enough to resist a dropped knife or heavy pan. You want a floor that won’t stain or warp if the washing machine or dishwasher leaks. 

Thumbs Up : Vinyl is often used in commercial settings and is extremely durable, vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl are both good options and come with long guarantees. Marmoleum Lino is tough and won’t fade in sunlight or stain. Engineered wood is coated with a tough sealant and has a thick veneer which can be sanded and lasts well. 

Ok : Solid wood and laminate are easily scratched, but easy enough to repair if you maintain them well.

Thumbs Down : Resin and poured concrete are easily scratched and dented which is hard to repair, in most cases the whole floor will need to be sanded and resealed. Ceramic tiles often chip which can be difficult and costly to repair individually.

Hygiene and Ease of Cleaning

Most kitchen floor types will be moppable and easy to clean. However, some need special cleaning materials so as not to damage their sealant or finish. Choose a floor type with as few seals as possible, reducing the number of ways water can get underneath it and damage it. 

Thumbs Up : Engineered wood, vinyl and lino are all happy to be mopped, hoovered and swept. Vinyl and lino floors will have minimal seals and are super water resistant. Many vinyl floors have anti bacterial coatings and stop the spread of bacteria. Cork is naturally antibacterial, resistant to mould and mildew and easy to clean, however will stain if a spill is left. 

Ok : Ceramic and porcelain tiles are easy to clean, but the grouting can be a pain. Don’t use white grout and opt for narrow grout lines between tiles. 

Thumbs Down : Solid wood doesn’t like getting wet, it will warp and move over time. Wood will also stain and need sanding and staining every few years to relieve the staining.

Comfort and Slip Resistance

If you’re cooking a big meal (or doing the washing up afterwards), you want a floor that’s comfortable to stand on: neither cold nor slippery. Slip-resistance is important around the home but especially in kitchens where there are often spills, hot pans and knives all around! 

Thumbs Up : Vinyl and lino are warm and comfortable underfoot, as well as suitable to use with underfloor heating. Engineered wood has the feel of real wood and is suitable for underfloor heating.

Ok : Unless you choose specific anti-slip tiles that are often deigned for bathrooms, tiles can be a slippery choice for kitchens. Most tiles are suitable for use with underfloor heating. Solid wood is kind to feet but unsuitable for underfloor heating. 

Thumbs Down : Resin, especially with a gloss or satin finish, can be rather slippery, but can be used with underfloor heating. Laminate can become slick underfoot, particularly after sweeping and not all types are suitable for underfloor heating. 

Whatever look you’re going for in your new kitchen, we’ll have the perfect floor that ticks all the right boxes. We stock a huge range of floorings and can do the installation for you too. Visit our showroom in Norwich to see our flooring types and receive expert advice. For any enquiries about our products or services call 01603 879359 or email sales@reformflooring.co.uk