A home’s kitchen is its heart. It’s where memories are made and love is shared. Because of this, you want your kitchen space to be as comfortable and inviting as possible, and this includes its flooring. Hardwood flooring is a common choice for kitchens, but is it the right choice for yours? Let’s discuss some factors that might help you make that decision!
The Pros of Hardwood Floors
Aesthetics
There’s no doubt that hardwood floors are beautiful and, arguably, the most attractive of all flooring options. Regardless of your personal taste, there is a type/color of hardwood that will match it. Hardwood floors can open up a space with a seamless transition from room to room and can make any area look elegant.
Durability
Hardwood floors are notorious for being incredibly durable; lasting decades in many instances. It’s simple to sand down and refinish when necessary, making it easy to maintain over the years. This is important in high-traffic areas such as a kitchen.
Easy Maintenance
The simple care and maintenance of hardwood flooring are very nice when it comes to kitchens. Given the amount of use kitchens get, combined with crumbs, spills, and grease, you want something that is easy to take care of daily. A broom, hardwood vacuum, or a damp mop is all it takes to keep this floor looking great.
Cons of Hardwood Floors
Expense
Hardwood flooring is a more expensive option for your kitchen. Vinyl and ceramic tile are significantly cheaper, but also not as durable.
Easily Scratched and/or Dented
Hardwood is inherently soft, making it susceptible to scratches and dents. Kitchen floors do take a beating, so they can wear the floor quicker than you’re expecting.
Not Resistant to Water
Hardwood and water are not the best of friends. When the wood is exposed to water for prolonged periods of time, it’s prone to warp, swell, and even split. If there’s ever a leak that isn’t caught immediately, you can bet the flooring in that area will be damaged as well. Always use a damp mop in lieu of a wet mop if you do get hardwood floors, because a wet mop can cause moisture to seep into the seams of the planks and cause issues as well.
However, don’t let this last fact alone be your deterrent. There are a few options that can negate this. Engineered wood and waterproofed wood could be great options for you.
Engineered hardwood consists of layers designed to reduce the issues related to moisture. Additionally, through innovation and technological advancements, waterproof hardwood flooring exists with a sublayer that allows for a natural look without moisture absorption.
The Final Call
With all of these facts laid out before you, you should be able to make a more educated decision about your kitchen flooring and what is the best fit for you! Contact Houston Flooring Company TX today to answer any questions you may have.