How to Select Kitchen Flooring: The Complete Guide for Homeowners

There's a reason everyone's favorite room in the house is the kitchen. It's practically a mini apartment, with a dining table and family room contained in one spot.

Our kitchens are the beating hearts and centers of our homes, and we rely on them to suit all aspects of our lives. So it's always challenging to make a remodeling or design project happen. And to select kitchen flooring can be overwhelming if you're not sure what you want.

Luckily, we're here to help. Here's our guide on how to select new kitchen flooring for your beloved kitchen.

Understand Your Needs

Consider the amount of traffic, potential moisture, and potential spills your kitchen will face. This will help you determine the durability and level of maintenance your kitchen flooring needs.

When evaluating your kitchen design, consider patterns and colors. Think of something that works with the design as a whole and complements the color of your cabinetry or countertops.

You should also consider your kitchen’s size and how it will affect the size and shape of the flooring tiles. Ask yourself how much slip resistance you need for safety and increased durability. Will you be replacing the kitchen flooring with an eco-friendly option?

Answering these questions can help you start on the right path.

Determine Your Budget

As all homeowners know, flooring prices can range drastically. When planning for a kitchen flooring budget, it is important to factor in the cost of additional materials, supplies, and labor. You should also include a contingency fund of up to 10-15% to cover any unexpected costs.

Research Different Materials of Kitchen Flooring

There are several factors to consider when making your selection. This includes moisture levels, foot traffic, cleaning, and installation cost.

Begin your search by comparing the different flooring materials available and their features. Know which characteristics are most important to you and use that to narrow down your choices.

Examples of flooring materials include hardwood, tile, luxury vinyl, and laminate. Consider how each material performs under high foot traffic, resists moisture, and is easy to clean.

You should also research the costs of materials and installation fees, as well as warranties and return policies. If you're considering laminate floors, you can learn more here about some common mistakes in the installation process.

Look Into Warranties and Guarantees

Warranties provide assurance and peace of mind that the flooring will remain in good condition for years to come. Look for the types of coverage, such as scratch resistance and waterproofing. Some warranties may also include an audit service to check the area for structural problems or even a labor and installation guarantee.

Warranties and guarantees should provide details of what is excluded. They should also include what procedures you will need to follow in the event you need to take advantage of them.