Tile flooring - the way to go when choosing kitchen flooring?
Wednesday, 16 March 2011 7:23 PM
When it comes to redesigning any room in the home, the kitchen is often a popular choice. It is, after all, a place where householders spend plenty of time. Moreover, those thinking of selling on their home may find it is one feature that attracts buyers for this very reason. So for either one's own comfort or a future windfall, investing in kitchen decor may be a very good move.
The floor is one significant part of the equation. A good kitchen floor needs to be durable and will benefit from not just looking nice but being able to deal with stains, spills and moisture. Apart from the bathroom, the kitchen is the wettest room in the house, what with sinks, occasionally leaking washing machines and the humidity of steaming pans and kettles.
When it comes to materials, wood comes in planks, so people preferring tiles may find that cork and vinyl are two of the best options. Each has pros and cons versus the other.
Cork floor tiles have the edge when it comes to being green, with this being an organic material that comes from a sustainable and renewable source - the bark of the tree.
The material itself is fire and surface water resistant, as well as providing good sound insulation. It is soft and therefore good news for feet that spend a long time on the floor, while the material has a large degree of resilience.
However, it can be scratched and can deteriorate if left covered in water for a long period. Therefore, it shouldn't be wet-mopped. Another effect is that it can fade if affected by extensive exposure to sunlight, although this may not be a problem if the kitchen faces north or is in shade.
Vinyl floor tiles may not be organic or as eco-friendly as cork. Against this, cushioned vinyl flooring can offer the same sort of comfort for feet. Moreover, kitchen vinyl flooring, while it may not have the appeal of a natural material, can come in attractive patterns. It is a tough material, is waterpoof and does not cost much.
The only snags are that even tough vinyl is not completely immune to scratches or tears, while like cork it can fade under direct sunlight.
However, both flooring types need limited maintenance and as long as this is done, they can each offer an excellent choice for a kitchen.
