Being integrated in an area that provides homeowners and the rest of the household multiple and typically practical and even some laborious functions, it is crucial to put much thought on choosing the kitchen flooring option that is best for your New York home. It is important to take considerations as to how the kitchen is being used, the lifestyle of the entire family, and your personal taste and preferences. With the many types of kitchen flooring emerging today offering varying features and characteristics, making the decision can be tough. To help you on this, here are the pros and cons of buying some of the most common materials with insights ideal whether you are in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Long Island, Queens, or Staten Island.
Laminate
Laminate is known practically for the ease in maintenance as well as the lower cost that it comes in. What was once just a cheap imitation of its more expensive counterparts have been developed into a more durable option that comes in the widest variety of colors and designs, making up for a stylishly versatile option. Being resistant to spills and stains, cleaning can be a breeze and this kitchen flooring option does not fade in direct sunlight. It can also be easily laid over an existing floor.
The downside with laminate is that it can not withstand too much heat and impact which when chipped, can be impossible to repair. When used as an alternative for wood, though it can fool you at first glance, it lacks that exquisite warmth and can even be noisy to walk on. Though installation can be easy, improper fitting can leave gaps that can become breeding grounds for moisture and eventually molds that can cause considerable damage.
Tile
With the very wide range of colors, shapes, textures and patterns that tiles come in; the variety of designs that you can come up with will only be limited by your imagination. You can choose from ceramic or porcelain tile but either way will prove to be a fire and water resistance, durable, and low maintenance choice. However, tile can be as hard on the feet as it is on the dishes making up for uncomfortable walking and breakage. Other than being cold underfoot, this kitchen flooring option is not good at minimizing noise. Grout lines can also be difficult to maintain and its porous nature can pose sanitary and health issues.
Linoleum
Linoleum kitchen flooring is widely used commercially due to its durability. It possesses a unique quality of becoming more durable with more years of use. As its color goes all the way through, it retains its color whatever happens.
Linoleum is also an environment-friendly as well as low maintenance choice. The negatives of opting for such kitchen flooring is the cost which is a bit higher than high-rated vinyl and that it requires a special glue to be installed.
Hardwood
Though hardwood is not a traditional choice for kitchen flooring, new finishes and other advanced features has made this alternative as popular in the kitchen and even bathrooms as it is in living areas. In terms of home value, nothing beats this option offering that exquisite and timeless charm and luxurious warmth. It comes in an excellent selection of timbers, stains, and finishes and can be installed as a floating floor, solid planks or in parquet designs. Though wear and scratches will eventually show, sanding and refinishing your hardwood floor will bring it back to its glorious state. The cost however, can be hefty and a good measure of maintenance is required.