Of the many things to consider when purchasing new flooring for your kitchen, these may be the most important: durability, stain resistance and style. Of course, no floor is perfect, so don't expect a certain flooring material to be the most durable, the most stain resistant and the most stylish. Figure out what flooring features are best suited for your kitchen and select accordingly. Some other things to consider when picking out flooring are:
- If you place a priority on the comfort factor, you’ll want to start with the most cushiony options like vinyl and linoleum. Or you might consider using other materials with throw rugs placed in strategic spots, such as in front of the sink.
- You know you’re bound to spill something at some point on your new floor. Whatever the culprit, you’ll be able to wipe it up the easiest off of vinyl, laminate, and linoleum. Other materials, such as stone, wood, and concrete, will require special sealants to get that kind of easy cleanup.
- Of all the choices, carpet seems to make the least practical sense for a kitchen floor, even if it’s a durable product like berber. Try to keep it out of the main work area and just in the adjoining family room areas.
- Be sure that the new flooring isn’t so high that it prevents your appliances from being rolled out for repair or replacement. Or better yet, install the flooring under all the removable appliances.
Go to the next page to get more details on the general characteristics of each type of flooring material for the kitchen.
