No space in the home is tested like the kitchen, so you need flooring that can, ideally, withstand daily spills, scrapes, foot traffic and heat while still providing aesthetic appeal. While many may be tempted Eye-catching laminate kitchen flooring ideasHome remodeling expert and HGTV star Mike Holmes believes this is one type of flooring that should be avoided at all costs. “Laminate flooring is highly impact- and scratch-resistant. However, prolonged exposure to moisture can scratch and damage it,” Holmes wrote. Make it right Blog post.
Although laminate flooring provides a vibrant natural look that appeals to many homeowners, Holmes believes it is not the right choice for spaces where spills are common. “Water is laminate flooring’s worst enemy,” he added, “The top is sealed with a wear layer, and the bottom is coated. However, laminate floorboards have raw edges and can absorb water.”
Generally, laminate flooring will serve you for 15 to 25 years or even longer, with thicker wear layers providing more protection. However, if exposed to excessive moisture for a long time, the fiberboard core can absorb water through the edges of the floorboards or through the gaps between the planks, affecting durability and ultimately significantly shortening the lifespan. Damage usually manifests as warping, buckling, swelling or cracking. What’s more, if a laminate floor gets damaged it cannot be given a makeover by sanding or refinishing. If you want to bring it back to life the only option is to replace the planks with new ones.
Mike Homes’ Alternatives to Laminate for Kitchen Flooring
The world of kitchen flooring is full of many people Durable flooring material Which can withstand moisture better than laminate flooring. For example, concrete is known for its longevity and strong water-resistant qualities. However, Mike Homes only recommends this if you are building a new home. “It’s not a practical choice for most renovations because it’s too heavy. This is due to the minimum depth required to pour a solid concrete floor that won’t crack or crumble. Also, consider the joist strength needed to support this extra weight,” he cautioned. Natural stone, another homeowner favorite, is a durable and attractive choice but also heavy and expensive. According to EnterStone installation costs up to $35 per square foot, while Price of laminate Between $3 and $13 per square foot installed.
So, what is the best flooring for the kitchen? Overall, there is ceramic or porcelain tile Homes top choice for easy-care kitchen flooring. “They are durable, attractive, easy to clean, and available in a variety of patterns and finishes,” Holmes wrote, adding that tile can also handle dirt or moisture from outside.
Unlike laminate flooring, which can be a DIY project, tile has a tedious, complicated installation process. “Installing tiles requires experience and skill, not to mention the materials, supplies and tools needed to get the job done,” Holmes wrote in another. Make it right Blog post. Tiles are usually heavy and hard, and cutting and laying them correctly can be a tall order for a first-timer. Even small mistakes like choosing the wrong adhesive or the wrong spacing can cause vulnerabilities and costly repairs, so it’s usually best to hire a professional for permanent installation.
