Tile and vinyl are common choices for kitchen flooring, but what about alternatives like hardwood or laminate? Must the best kitchen flooring be waterproof, or are there other solutions?
Luxury vinyl is a multilayered PVC flooring that’s durable, waterproof, and affordable compared to traditional options like solid hardwood. Available in plank (LVP) and tile (LVT) forms, it convincingly mimics wood and stone. Enhanced versions with a rigid core layer, known as EVP or rigid core luxury vinyl flooring, are especially robust and can easily withstand the daily demands of a busy kitchen.
Luxury vinyl flooring stands out for its durability and excellent water resistance, making it an excellent candidate for kitchen use. It also offers a comfortable feel underfoot, especially with options like WPC flooring.
Laminate flooring, often sold as a budget-friendly alternative to hardwood, can be designed to look like various materials. However, for kitchen use, it’s crucial to select water-resistant or waterproof laminate as standard versions can deteriorate when exposed to moisture. The installation cost of laminate is much lower than that of real hardwood, and non-toxic options are available for those sensitive to chemicals.
Sheet vinyl, an economical kitchen flooring option, has been around since the 1960s and remains popular due to its cost-effectiveness and waterproof properties. Although not as durable as luxury vinyl, sheet vinyl is significantly cheaper and can handle spills and most stains without issue. It is best for budget-conscious buyers, offering designs that mostly stick to tile or geometric patterns, with some wood looks available.
Linoleum, made from mostly natural materials, is often seen as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic flooring like vinyl. It can mimic other floor types, is durable, and is cost-effective. Linoleum is biodegradable, can be produced sustainably, and can be sealed to enhance its water resistance.
When selecting the best kitchen flooring, consider durability, water resistance, cost, and environmental impact. Luxury vinyl, laminate, sheet vinyl, and linoleum each offer unique benefits that can cater to different needs and preferences.
Likewise Group PLC (LON:LIKE) is a distributor of floorcoverings and matting and has the opportunity to consolidate the domestic and commercial floorcovering markets to become one of the UK’s largest distributors in this sector.
