The kitchen is the heart of the home, and it gets a lot of traffic. When you’re choosing a kitchen floor, then, it’s important to find the flooring that can withstand not just the spills and splatters that happen in a kitchen, but also all that food traffic. Of course, you also want to find one that’s attractive and fits your aesthetic sensibilities. There are many options available to you, so how should you choose? Let’s look at some of the attributes of different types of flooring.

• Vinyl flooring is not what it used to be. Today’s engineered vinyl flooring is available in sheets, planks, and tiles and comes in a wide array of patterns, as well as styles that mimic the look of hardwood and stone. It’s got an almost springy feel underfoot and doesn’t get cold in the winter like some types of flooring. It’s water-resistant, easy to clean, and can be installed without the help of a professional. The drawback of vinyl is that it’s softer than some other materials and can be dented or scratched. Light colors like whitewash or blonde wood or gray stone are the looks that are trending right now.
• Tile is a popular option. Tile has a nearly endless number of looks, made from a variety of materials. Ceramic and porcelain tile are both durable, waterproof, stain-resistant options that are good for high-traffic areas, but the grout will need to be resealed periodically to prevent staining. Additionally, porcelain tile is heavy so it’s not a good option for second-story installation. Stone tile is more expensive and high-maintenance than ceramic and porcelain, but its porous surface makes it less slippery. It comes in options like travertine, marble, slate, and granite and must be resealed at regular intervals, but with proper care, it’s very durable. Patterned installations like herringbone and chevron and mixing tile styles are popular trends right now.
• Hardwood gives a classic look to any room. Solid hardwood is durable, beautiful, and water-resistant, though water exposure over time will damage them. They come in many colors and patterns and can be refinished if they wear down. Laminate floors are a lower-priced option that mimics the look of hardwood. They’re not as durable as other options but some kinds are waterproof. Wood trends of the moment are lighter finishes and varieties, as well as mixing colors and creating patterns.
• Cork is a budget-friendly option that’s easy on the feet. Cork is warm, soft, and can easily be installed by a homeowner. It’s not stain-proof but it’s stain-resistant, so spills should be cleaned promptly. If it does get stained, it can be sanded down and refinished. It can fade in direct sunlight, though, so it should be protected during bright times of the day.
• Concrete is a surprisingly versatile option. It may not sound like a homey enough option for a kitchen, but it can be styled to look like stone, wood, or tile. It’s inexpensive and waterproof if you’re willing to make an adventurous choice.

Capitol Design Build can help. We’ve been performing custom remodeling since 1989 and building custom, high-end homes in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area for 29 years. We serve businesses and individuals in Virginia, Washington D.C, and Maryland, meeting every need from kitchen renovation and bathroom remodeling to custom home design and building. With experience spanning many disciplines, including engineering, design, remodeling, construction, and customer service, we look forward to working with you. Feel free to shop our website, call us at (703) 436-6919, or contact us online for a free, no-obligation estimate.