The kitchen is the heart of the home, often a hub of activity. We spend hours in the space, prepping meals, cleaning up, and enjoying quality time with our families over delectable food. Our kitchen floors need to be able to keep up, or we’ll replace them every few years.
The floors impact the look and feel of the space — and our home’s value- and must suit our family’s needs, so choosing the right material is essential. Here are our top seven kitchen flooring picks and why I chose them.
- Choosing a durable, water-resistant material is crucial for kitchen floors.
- Tile is a strong contender for its durability, cost, and timelessness.
- Hiring a professional is the best route for flooring installations to avoid unnecessary complications.
What Qualities Does Kitchen Flooring Need?
A good kitchen flooring material should offer key qualities to ensure it holds up well under regular use. As you search for a new flooring material for your kitchen remodel, look for these qualities:
- Cost: Many homeowners work on a budget, but installing floors is costly. Pay attention to the price of each flooring option and ensure you select a material that matches your budget. I recommend determining how much you want to spend before you start shopping, as this will avoid the disappointment of finding a perfect option that is simply out of your price range.
- Durability: The kitchen floor must resist spills, heavy foot traffic, regular cleaning, dropped items, and other beatings from everyday use. Because of this, they need to be durable. Ensure you choose a flooring material that won’t shatter, crack, or break if you accidentally drop a heavy pot on it.
- Maintenance: The best kitchen floors are low-maintenance. Since most of us don’t have time to follow a rigorous kitchen floor cleaning routine every night, selecting a low-maintenance option is important.
- Style: While not necessarily the most important thing on this list, style is still important. The floors significantly impact the feel of a space, so ensure you choose an option that matches your aesthetic preferences and kitchen theme.
- Water resistance: This is an absolute must for kitchen floors. If they’re not waterproof — or at least water resistant — you’ll likely run into mold and mildew issues and possibly even water damage to the subfloor. Since keeping your kitchen floor completely dry 24/7 is nearly impossible, especially when you’re cooking or cleaning, you’ll need to choose a water-resistant flooring material.
What Kitchen Flooring Options Do We Recommend?
The best flooring option for your kitchen hinges on your specific needs, but tile is a top contender for us, followed closely by hardwood. Here are our top recommendations:
- Cork
- Engineered hardwood
- Hardwood
- Laminate
- Linoleum
- Luxury vinyl plank
- Tile
Cork
If you prefer eco-friendly flooring materials, cork is an excellent choice. This material is unique, as it’s soft underfoot yet lends impressive durability. This material is an excellent option if you spend hours in the kitchen cooking or baking. The soft feel is easier on your feet and will help relieve the soreness from standing for hours on an unforgiving surface.
Unlike many eco-friendly options, cork is surprisingly inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly choice. It costs between $3 and $7 per square foot, which is decently affordable in the grand scheme.
It also comes in numerous shapes, sizes, and colors to accommodate varying situations. However, while this material is a strong contender, it has its drawbacks. Since it has a spongy texture, it isn’t easy to clean and is prone to staining. In addition, it is susceptible to fading in direct sunlight, making it less than ideal for kitchens with ample natural lighting.
Engineered Hardwood
If you love the look and feel of natural hardwood, engineered hardwood is an outstanding substitute. This material features a thin layer of hardwood, which creates the classic, warm look of hardwood. It’s inexpensive due to the core layers, which are made of strengthened composite plywood.
It costs between $7 and $20 per square foot — so while it isn’t the cheapest option available, engineered wood flooring is considerably cheaper than natural hardwood. It comes in many of the same options as natural hardwood, allowing you to choose your favorite hardwood for your kitchen without the exorbitant cost.
Engineered hardwood is moisture-resistant, so it’s an excellent choice for kitchens. It holds up well under moderate traffic and can be refinished several times as needed. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to natural hardwood, using less hardwood per plank than natural planks.
Of course, this material isn’t without drawbacks. For example, since the layer of hardwood on top is so thin, it can only be refinished a few times before it wears out. On top of that, it’s nowhere near as durable or long-lasting as natural hardwood — it isn’t as solid.
Hardwood
As one of the most popular, high-value flooring materials for many homes, hardwood is a worthwhile consideration. This classic option offers the space a warm, natural feel, making it an excellent pick for varying kitchen aesthetics.
Solid wood floors can be refinished dozens of times, allowing them to withstand the test of time and lending well to their overall durability. You can select different stains to create varying colors and finishes based on changing aesthetics in your kitchen, so it’s surprisingly versatile.
This material comes in varying types, so you can choose your favorite hardwood to complete your kitchen. You can even lay the planks in a particular pattern throughout your kitchen to create an extra layer of visual appeal.
However, this material isn’t waterproof unless you seal it properly — so if your dog’s water bowl sits in your kitchen, this might not be the best option. Additionally, estimates for hardwood floor costs are not budget-friendly, as it costs between $9 and $22 per square foot (including installation), depending on the type of hardwood you choose.
Laminate
This flooring material has been a staple in millions of homes for decades. Laminate flooring is inexpensive, which made it incredibly popular when it first came onto the market. It generally costs between $2.50 and $7 per square foot — although some luxury options are pricier.
It still holds its own, retaining some of its original popularity but with modern designs. It comes in various designs, many mimicking the expensive looks of stone and hardwood.
This material is easy to work with, so it’s an excellent pick for DIY projects. It’s flexible and often comes with a simple installation mechanism, making it a good option for DIYers, even those with less experience. Its flexibility makes installing it on uneven surfaces easier than tile, wood, and vinyl planks.
Many companies treat flooring with a sealant that aids in water resistance, so this material is a good option for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas prone to moisture. After several years, you may have to reapply the sealer as it wears down from foot traffic and cleaning.
However, while companies have tried to improve water resistance, not all laminate flooring materials on the market are waterproof, so paying attention to the details is important. This material isn’t as durable as other materials on this list, such as hardwood.
Linoleum
As a go-to pick for many schools over the years, linoleum is a solid flooring option. The price of linoleum flooring is inexpensive, coming in at around $2 to $12 per square foot, making it a good choice for those on a budget.
It offers low-maintenance durability, so you won’t need to clean or perform upkeep constantly. It’s also an eco-friendly alternative to other options — so if you’re environmentally conscious and on a budget, this option is a strong pick.
This material is surprisingly easy to install if you’re working with a flat, even surface. You don’t need many expensive tools to install linoleum, but you will need to rent a linoleum roller.
Linoleum flooring is water resistant, making it a good choice for kitchens. However, if you accidentally drop a knife or another sharp object on the floor and puncture the flooring, it could open the door to water damage issues. In addition, this flooring is susceptible to yellowing in direct sunlight.
Luxury Vinyl Plank
Vinyl flooring is a worthwhile consideration when searching for kitchen flooring materials. Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) offer beautiful looks without the excessive prices often found in high-end materials like stone or hardwood.
These planks come in multiple colors, textures, and patterns, though wood and stone-like planks are the most popular. Although many folks are dubious of how realistic this type of flooring looks, LVP looks surprisingly real and is comparable in appearance to the real deal. Some manufacturers make “luxury vinyl tile,” or LVT, made of the same material as LVP but in square tile sizes.
This flooring is water-resistant, so it’s an excellent choice for kitchens and other high-moisture areas. On average, luxury vinyl planks cost between $9 and $11 (including installation) — although some luxury options may be pricier than this.
Of course, there are a few downsides to consider. These floors are prone to scratching, which can be noticeable. In addition, they’re not as durable as other flooring options. You may find our article helpful in choosing the perfect vinyl plank flooring for your kitchen.
Tile
With exceptional durability and superior water resistance, tile is an excellent pick for kitchen flooring. Tile ranks among our top scratch-resistant flooring options and withstands the test of time, making it an ideal choice for kitchens.
The grouting between tiles allows the tile to be completely waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about water damage. In addition, tile floors are easy to clean, especially with high-quality tile cleaners. Of course, the grout can get grubby over time, but the grime is less noticeable if you use a darker grout color.
You can find tile flooring in two main types: porcelain and ceramic. Porcelain tiles are more durable than the latter, so I recommend them for kitchens. They’re relatively inexpensive at between $2 and $10 per square foot — so while they’re not the cheapest option, they’re far from the most expensive. However, some tiles can be as expensive as $30 per square foot, so pay attention to the price tag.
On the other hand, ceramic tiles are more porous, softer, and less expensive — but more susceptible to wear and tear. They’re a popular choice for warmer climates, as their natural coolness is a perk in the heat. You can easily find one to compliment your countertops, backsplash, and cabinetry.
While you might think tile flooring only comes in solid colors, it actually comes in various colors, patterns, and textures. Like many other flooring materials, porcelain flooring tiles often mimic the looks of expensive flooring materials — like stone or hardwood — so you can get the same luxurious look without the cost.
However, tile floors can be slippery compared to other types of flooring, so you’ll likely need a non-slip mat next to your sink. In addition, you’ll likely need to seal the grout in high-traffic areas for added durability.
How Do These Kitchen Flooring Options Compare?
Every flooring option on our list has merits, which can help you select the best option for your home. For example, tile flooring is an excellent choice for durability, whereas cork is a great option for a softer underfoot feel.
Vinyl plank is good for wood or stone-like floors without the cost, and linoleum floors are ideal for folks on a budget. Laminate floors are good for DIY projects, and hardwood is ideal for folks who want a long-lasting, durable material. Engineered hardwood is the perfect alternative for people who like hardwood floors but may not have the budget for them.
What’s The Best Flooring For Your Kitchen?
After reviewing our top kitchen flooring picks, you might still be on the fence or unsure of which option to choose. The chart below outlines each option based on cost, which is often a major determining factor in which option homeowners select for their kitchens.
| Flooring Type | Average Cost Per Square Foot |
| Cork | $3 to $7 |
| Engineered hardwood | $6 to $20 |
| Hardwood | $5 to $30 |
| Laminate | $2.50 to $7 |
| Linoleum | $2 to $12 |
| Luxury vinyl plank | $3 to $13 |
| Tile | $2 to $10 |
Is DIY Worth the Cost Savings of Installing Kitchen Flooring?
DIYing a flooring installation isn’t ideal unless you’re a seasoned expert or well-versed in these projects. Installing flooring can be tricky — and if not done right, the floors may encounter many issues.
Because of this, I recommend going the professional route. When choosing a reputable professional installer to handle your flooring project, you eliminate a considerable amount of stress that can surround these projects.
For example, you save yourself time. You don’t need to spend precious time in your busy schedule installing the floors. On top of that, you can rest assured knowing the job was done correctly.
If any issues arise, you can take advantage of the workmanship warranty many floor installers offer. Given the perks of going with a professional flooring installer, I think it’s the best option.
If you opt for professional installation, use a brand name with credibility and experience. Two of our top picks include LL Flooring and Empire Flooring.
Hiring a Professional Flooring Installer
Here is what you can expect from the process of hiring a professional flooring installer for your project:
- Shop around: Don’t settle on one installer right away, as this might prevent you from getting the best price. Search for local installers and pick a few of the best options to get quotes from before moving forward.
- Ask about their insurance: The best flooring installers have insurance that covers various things, including accidents that could occur during the installation, either to the worker, subcontractor, or flooring.
- Check experience and customer reviews: Look for highly-rated, experienced flooring installers, as these are often the best options. Ask friends and family for recommendations and do research on their top picks.
- Ask about the warranty: Ask your top picks about their warranty, if they offer one. The best options usually offer a workmanship warranty that covers any mistakes or hiccups that might occur.
- Discuss the process: Ask each provider about their process. How does the installation work? Do they measure for flooring? Do you need to clean up the area for installation, or do they handle that? What is the timeline like? Do you need to be at home for the installation?
- Get quotes: Once you find a few options, gather quotes. This will ensure you get the best price possible.
- Pick a provider: After combing through your options, it’s time to select the best fit. Choose the most reputable option in your list that offers the best prices that fit your needs.
So, What Top Kitchen Flooring Option Is Best For You?
Ultimately, the best flooring material for your kitchen hinges on your situation. You’ll need to consider all aspects of your needs, including your budget, the amount of foot traffic in your kitchen, whether you have pets, and other factors, like if you want to install both kitchen cabinets and floors, that may affect the best choice for your home.
If you want the best water resistance while matching the stone look of your countertops, tile is the best choice. On the other hand, hardwood flooring and engineered hardwood are great choices if you like the aesthetics of wood floors. Use hardwood if you want to refinish your floors in the future, and opt for engineered hardwood if you’d like to minimize your expenses.
Once you evaluate your situation, you can use your findings to select the perfect material to complete your kitchen flooring renovation. Happy searching!
FAQs About the Best Kitchen Flooring Options
What is the most hard-wearing kitchen flooring?
Tile is one of the most hard-wearing kitchen flooring materials. It’s durable, long-lasting, and waterproof, making it an exceptional choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-moisture areas.
What is the easiest flooring to put in a kitchen?
The easiest flooring material to install in a kitchen is laminate, but linoleum is another easy option. Of course, the easiest option will vary based on your experience and the quality of the subfloor.
What is the most timeless kitchen flooring?
Tile and hardwood flooring are among the most timeless kitchen flooring materials. They hold up well after several decades, remaining classy and beautiful. Of course, the timelessness of your floors will hinge on the color or type you choose, as some are more timeless than others.
