Whether you’re in the early stages of a home or business renovation, or you’ve begun construction on your new dream home, selecting beautiful wood flooring will both enhance the look of your space and increase the value. However, many homeowners often have a hard time deciding whether to have wood flooring in the kitchen or not. Below, we will tell you why installing wood flooring in your kitchen is a great idea.
DESIGN
Looking through home improvement magazines and websites, you can’t help but notice a lot of designers utilizing wood flooring throughout the kitchen areas. Wood flooring brings a warmth and distinction to your kitchen that is often lacking in materials like tile, linoleum, or vinyl. With more and more new homes utilizing open concept floor plans, the use of multiple flooring materials on the same level is quickly being phased out. One consistent floor material throughout connects the design elements more effectively by uniting spaces. Not to mention, it will also remove the need for transitional pieces of molding, which can be an expensive eyesore.
DURABILITY
Wood flooring has long been considered one of the most durable, long lasting options for flooring. The concept of kitchen use has just started gaining popularity with today’s homeowner. However, bringing wood flooring into an area with plumbing no doubt creates new ways of addressing a common wood flooring concern: moisture. Spills are going to happen in every area of the home, especially in the kitchen, and a simple rug or mat near the high traffic areas (such as in front of the sink) can prevent most issues with spills and moisture easily. Additionally, most installers will not install wood flooring under the dishwasher, giving you extra protection against moisture and humidity created by the appliance. By following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance program, your wood floor can easily outlast tile and linoleum by decades.
DAILY ADVANTAGES
Tile and ceramic floors have been shown to be tougher on joints, affecting knees and backs negatively, while wood floors provide a natural give, particularly in places where standing still for long periods of time occur such as the kitchen. Another issue that plagues tile use is the continuous cleaning of the grout, where dirt and spills can accumulate, which will require more extensive maintenance and cleaning. Unlike vinyl, linoleum, or even slate/tile, hardwood flooring never goes out of style, allowing the value of your home to increase.
The kitchen is truly the heart of the home. Whether it is for a quick weeknight dinner or large holiday gathering, the kitchen remains the main hub for activity. Having a beautiful wood floor that lasts a lifetime will bring not only peace of mind, but also a warm and regal look that other materials cannot.
