The 14 Best Types of Kitchen Flooring: Durable Kitchen Flooring Options to Consider for your New Kitchen

When it comes to choosing the best flooring for the kitchen, there are many different options to choose from. Each type of flooring has its own unique set of pros and cons. In this article, we will discuss the best kitchen flooring types as well as the pros and cons of each different type of flooring.

If you're looking for the best kitchen flooring options, you've come to the right place. We'll discuss a variety of styles and flooring types, as well as which flooring is best for each home improvement project, from popular kitchen flooring options like vinyl, porcelain and ceramic tiles, and hardwood, to lesser known choices for kitchens such as terrazzo and cork. By the end of this article, you should have a better understanding of which type of flooring would be best for your own kitchen.

Designing a new kitchen? Check out these kitchen design and layout ideas!

Types of Kitchen Flooring and Floor Materials:

Ceramic

Porcelain

Concrete

Natural Stone

Terra Cotta

Hardwood

Laminate

Travertine

Terrazzo

Mosaic

Cork

Bamboo

Vinyl

Linoleum

Ceramic Flooring

Ceramic flooring is a type of flooring made from ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are made from a variety of materials, including clay, sand, and water The tiles are then fired in a kiln to high temperatures, which makes them hard and durable. Ceramic flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is easy to care for and maintain.

Pros: 

1. Ceramic floor tiles are easy to clean and maintain

2. Ceramic flooring is resistant to staining and spills

3. Ceramic flooring is durable and long-lasting

4. Ceramic flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles

5. Ceramic flooring is affordable

Cons: 

1. Ceramic flooring can be cold to the touch

2. Ceramic flooring can be slippery when wet

3. Ceramic flooring is susceptible to chipping and cracking

4. Ceramic flooring requires regular sealing and polishing

5. Ceramic flooring is not as comfortable as other types of flooring

Porcelain Flooring

Porcelain flooring is a type of ceramic flooring that is made from porcelain tiles. Porcelain tiles are a type of ceramic tile that is made from a clay body that is fired at a high temperature. The high firing temperature makes the tile more durable and less absorbent than other types of ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles are available in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes.

Pros: 

1. Porcelain is a very strong and durable material

2. It is easy to clean and maintain

3. Porcelain floors are resistant to stains and scratches

4. They are also water-resistant and slip resistant

5. Porcelain floors can add a touch of elegance to any kitchen

Cons: 

1. Porcelain floors can be cold to the touch

2. They can be slippery when wet

3. They are also more expensive than other types of flooring, such as linoleum or vinyl

4. Installation can be difficult and time-consuming

5. Porcelain floors may need to be resealed or refinished on a regular basis to keep them looking their best

Concrete Flooring

Concrete flooring is a type of flooring that is made from concrete. It is a popular choice for many homes and businesses because it is durable and easy to maintain. Concrete flooring can be stained or painted to match any decor, and it is also resistant to mold and mildew.

Pros: 

1. Concrete kitchen flooring is very durable

2. Concrete kitchen flooring is easy to clean

3. Concrete kitchen flooring is stain resistant

4. Concrete kitchen flooring is slip resistant

5. Concrete kitchen flooring is easy to maintain

Cons: 

1. Concrete kitchen flooring can be cold and hard on the feet

2. Concrete kitchen flooring can be difficult to install

3. Concrete kitchen flooring can be difficult to repair if damaged

4. Concrete kitchen flooring can be susceptible to cracking over time

5. Concrete kitchen flooring can be slippery when wet

Natural Stone Flooring

Natural stone flooring is a type of flooring that is made from natural stone materials. The most common types of natural stone flooring include granite, marble, limestone, and slate. Natural stone flooring is durable and easy to maintain, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications.

Pros: 

1. Natural stone kitchen flooring is durable and long lasting

2. It is easy to clean and maintain

3. It is slip resistant and safe

4. It is a natural product that is eco-friendly

5. It adds value to your home

Cons: 

1. Natural stone kitchen flooring can be expensive

2. It is difficult to install and repair

3. It can be cold and hard on your feet

4. It can be slippery when wet

5. It requires regular sealing and maintenance

Terra Cotta Flooring

Terra cotta flooring is a type of flooring made from fired clay. It is a popular choice for floors in both residential and commercial settings because of its durability and aesthetic appeal. Terra cotta flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles, making it a versatile option for any space. While it is typically more expensive than other types of flooring, terra cotta's long-lasting beauty and easy maintenance make it a wise investment.

Pros: 

1. Terra cotta floors are unique and add character to a kitchen

2. The material is naturally heat-resistant, making it ideal for kitchens

3. Terra cotta floors are easy to clean and maintain

4. The material is also slip-resistant, making it safer for busy kitchens

5. Terra cotta floors are affordable and can last for many years with proper care

Cons: 

1. Terra cotta floors can be cold and hard on feet, so they may not be comfortable for long periods of standing or cooking

2. The material is somewhat porous, so it can stain easily if not sealed properly or cleaned up quickly enough

3. Terra cotta floors can crack or chip easily if dropped or hit with heavy objects

4. The color of terra cotta floors may fade over time from exposure to sunlight

5. Terra cotta floors may require more frequent sweeping

Are you looking to refresh your kitchen with a remodel? We’ve got you covered with this article!

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is a type of flooring that uses solid hardwood boards or planks to create a smooth, level surface. Hardwood floors are typically made from oak, maple, or cherry trees, but can also be made from other hardwoods like walnut or mahogany. Hardwood floors are typically more expensive than other types of flooring, like carpet or linoleum, but they can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.

Pros: 

1. Hardwood floors are classic and elegant

2. They are easy to clean and maintain

3. Hardwood is a durable flooring option and lasts for many years

4. They add value to your home

5. Hardwood floors are eco-friendly and made from natural materials

Cons: 

1. Hardwood floors are expensive

2. They can be scratched or dented easily

3. They require regular maintenance, such as sweeping, mopping, and polishing

4. They can be damaged by water or other liquids

5. Hardwood floors can be noisy when walking on them

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a synthetic product made to look like wood or stone. It is produced by bonding layers of materials together with heat and pressure. The top layer is a wear-resistant and water-resistant transparent film that protects the decorative layer below. Laminate flooring is easy to install and maintain, and it is an affordable alternative to hardwood or stone floors.

Pros: 

1. Laminate kitchen flooring is easy to install

2. Laminate kitchen flooring is easy to clean and maintain

3. Laminate kitchen flooring is durable

4. Laminate kitchen flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles

5. Laminate kitchen flooring is cost-effective

Cons: 

1. Laminate kitchen flooring can be damaged by water or excessive moisture

2. Laminate kitchen flooring can be scratched or scuffed

3. Laminate kitchen flooring may not be as comfortable as other types of flooring

4. Laminate kitchen flooring may not be as durable as other types of flooring

5. Laminate kitchen flooring may not be available in as many colors and styles as other types of flooring

Travertine Flooring

Travertine is a type of limestone that is formed by hot springs or other natural sources of heat and pressure. The stone is characterized by its porousness, softer texture, and its distinctive veining. Travertine flooring has become increasingly popular in recent years because of its durability and its aesthetic appeal. Travertine flooring is often used in high-end homes and commercial buildings because of its durability and elegant appearance.

Pros:

1. Travertine is a durable natural stone that can withstand heavy foot traffic

2. It is easy to clean and maintain with regular sweeping and mopping

3. Travertine floors add a touch of luxury to any kitchen and increase the resale value of the home

4. The stone is cool to the touch, making it comfortable to stand on for long periods of time

5. Travertine comes in a variety of colors and patterns, so it is easy to find one that fits your taste and kitchen décor

Cons: 

1. Travertine floors can be expensive, especially if you opt for designer tiles

2. The stone is porous and can stain easily if not sealed properly or cleaned up promptly after spills occur

3. Sharp objects can scratch or chip travertine, so it may not be the best choice if you have young children in the home who are prone to dropping

Terrazzo Flooring

Terrazzo flooring is a type of flooring that consists of pieces of marble, glass, or other materials embedded in concrete. The word "terrazzo" comes from the Italian word for "terrace," which refers to the fact that this type of flooring was originally used on outdoor terraces. Terrazzo is very durable and easy to maintain, making it a popular choice for both commercial and residential applications.

Pro: 

1. Terrazzo kitchen flooring is easy to clean and maintain

2. It is a durable material that can last for many years

3. Terrazzo is a hypoallergenic material, making it ideal for people with allergies or sensitivities

4. Terrazzo kitchen flooring is available in a variety of colors and designs

5. It is a relatively inexpensive flooring option

Con: 

1. Terrazzo kitchen flooring can be slippery when wet

2. It is a hard surface, so it can be uncomfortable to stand on for long periods of time

3. Terrazzo floors can be difficult to install yourself

4. If not sealed properly, terrazzo floors can stain easily

5. Terrazzo floors can be scratched or chipped if they are not cared for properly

Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is a type of flooring made from cork. Cork is a natural wood material that is durable and comfortable to walk on. Cork flooring is available in a variety of colors and patterns, and can be installed over any type of subfloor. Cork flooring is easy to clean and maintain and is a great choice for high-traffic areas.

Pros: 

1. Cork kitchen flooring is a very durable material

2. Cork is a natural insulator, so cork kitchen flooring can help to keep your kitchen cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter

3. Cork is a very soft material, so it is very comfortable to stand on for long periods of time

4. Cork kitchen flooring is very easy to clean and maintain

5. Cork floors are environmentally friendly because they are made from a renewable resource

Cons: 

1. Cork kitchen flooring can be damaged by high heels or other sharp objects

2. Cork floors can be stained by spilled food or drinks

3. If cork floors get wet, they can swell up and become warped

4. Cork floors can be scratched by pets or other animals

5. Cork floors may fade in direct sunlight

Mosaic Flooring

Mosaic flooring is a type of tile flooring that consists of small pieces of stone tiles or glass tiles that are arranged in a pattern. Mosaic flooring is often used in areas where there is a lot of foot traffic, such as entryways and kitchens. Mosaic flooring is easy to clean and maintain, and it can last for many years.

Pros: 

1. Mosaic kitchen floor tiles can be very beautiful and unique

2. It can be easy to clean if the tiles are sealed properly

3. Mosaic flooring can be slip resistant

4. It is usually durable and long lasting

5. Mosaic kitchen flooring can add value to your home

Cons: 

1. Mosaic kitchen flooring can be expensive

2. The grout between the tiles can be difficult to clean and may need to be replaced over time

3. Mosaic kitchen flooring can be cold and hard underfoot

4. If the tiles are not sealed properly, they can absorb spills and stains

5. Mosaic kitchen flooring may crack or break if it is not installed correctly

Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo flooring is a type of flooring made from the bamboo plant. Bamboo is a grass that is native to Asia and grows quickly, making it a sustainable resource. Bamboo flooring is harder than many types of wood flooring and is resistant to moisture and pests. Bamboo flooring can be installed over concrete or wood subfloors and comes in a variety of colors and styles.

Pros:

1. Bamboo floors are elegant and stylish

2. They are very durable and can withstand heavy traffic

3. Bamboo floors are easy to care for and require little maintenance

4. They are environmentally friendly and sustainable

5. Bamboo floors are relatively inexpensive compared to other flooring options

Cons:

1. Bamboo floors can be scratched or dented easily

2. They are not as heat resistant as other flooring materials and can warp in extreme temperatures

3. Bamboo floors can be susceptible to water damage if they are not properly sealed or maintained

4. Some people find the appearance of bamboo floors to be too rustic

Bamboo is an eco-friendly material, and we’ve previously written all about designing sustainable kitchens!

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is a synthetic material made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a type of plastic. It has a number of advantages over other types of flooring, including being more durable, easier to clean, and more resistant to water damage. Vinyl flooring is available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a popular choice for both home and commercial settings.

Pros: 

1. Vinyl is a very affordable flooring option

2. Vinyl is easy to install and can be a do-it-yourself project

3. Vinyl is easy to clean and maintain

4. Vinyl is waterproof and durable

5. Vinyl comes in a variety of colors and styles

Cons: 

1. Vinyl may not be as durable as some other flooring options

2. Vinyl can be damaged by sharp objects or excessive heat

3. Vinyl may fade or discolor over time

4. Vinyl may not be eco-friendly or sustainable

5. Some people believe vinyl has an artificial look and feel

Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum flooring is a popular choice for many homes and businesses due to its durability and easy maintenance. Linoleum is made from natural materials including linseed oil, wood flour, cork dust, and limestone, which makes it a sustainable and eco-friendly flooring option. Linoleum is available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a versatile flooring choice for any space.

Pros: 

1. Linoleum is a natural material made from cork, linseed oil, wood flour, and limestone

2. It is durable and easy to clean

3. It is slip-resistant and has a low environmental impact

4. It is available in a variety of colors and patterns

5. It is an affordable option for kitchen flooring

Cons: 

1. Linoleum can be damaged by sharp objects or excessive heat

2. It may fade over time if exposed to direct sunlight

3. It can be difficult to install for DIYers

4. Some people find it difficult to clean or maintain

5. It may not be as stylish as some other types of flooring