Kitchens are one of those areas in the house that go through a lot of wear and tear every day. From spills to drips, from dropped utensils to constant foot traffic, the flooring in this particular space experiences multiple hazards. In other words, not every flooring material can pass the test of time when it comes to your cooking area. So, what are the solutions? Are there any budget-friendly options to choose from?
Thanks to the latest technological advancements, you have access to some innovative flooring solutions these days. And you know what? You don’t have to break the bank to make your kitchen floor look awe-inspiring. Below are eight inexpensive flooring options to consider for your kitchen.
1. Laminate Flooring
Made up of a composite of materials, laminate flooring mimics the look of timber and natural stone. So, if you wish to give your cooking area a sophisticated look, laminate flooring is the answer. Though it’s mostly installed in other rooms of the home, due to its affordable nature, you can use laminate in your kitchen.
While laminate is similar to vinyl sheets when it comes to cost, it’s not as durable as kitchen floor vinyl. Make sure to take extra precautions so that the laminate flooring won’t get wet easily.
2. Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl has everything you are looking for. It’s budget-friendly, water-resistant, highly durable, easy to maintain, and aesthetically pleasing. Plus, vinyl flooring is available in some amazing designs, styles, and sizes to make your kitchen look more attractive than it once was.
Vinyl is predominately manufactured with PVC, which makes the floor durable and suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens. Little maintenance and regular vacuuming would be enough to maintain it. When installed correctly, you can expect a vinyl floor to last as long as 25 years.
3. Ceramic Tiles
Although ceramic tiles are not as cheap as the other flooring options listed, it’s the durability and life span that make it a budget-friendly option in the long run. Always look for manufactured tiles with a rating of at least a 3 on the PEI scale. Tiles rated less than 3 are too thin to sustain high traffic.
4. Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles can be installed anywhere you want. When the kitchen area is damp, consider installing porcelain floor tiles. Why? Because they are denser and tougher than other types of tiles. They have excellent performance and a good-looking surface that nicely complements kitchen areas. In fact, these tiles are so tough that you can even use them in any climate.
5. Terracotta Tiles
How about using organic material in your kitchen floor or wall tiles? Composed of natural materials, terracotta floor tiles are cheap, scratch-resistant, fade-resistant, and handmade. However, these tiles require periodic maintenance and proper sealing. Despite that, they are the most sought-after and budget-friendly option for cooking areas.
6. Carpet Flooring
If you don’t want something permanent for your kitchen, carpeting could be your cup of tea. While it’s soft to walk on, carpeting can dampen sound and compliment any interior design. From wall-to-wall to peel-and-stick, wool to cotton, cut pile to loop pile, there are several carpeting options to consider. However, carpets do show wear and tear much faster than other flooring options. So, make sure to take extra measures to save the carpet from moisture. Carpet cleaning is also one challenge.
7. Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo is one of the strongest natural materials out there in the market. It is substantially tougher than hardwood and subsequently more scratch-resistance, making it a great alternative to regular timber floors or white subway tiles. However, keep in mind that bamboo flooring is easily susceptible to water damage and staining.
8. Cork Flooring
Cork is a notable material in the world of kitchen flooring. It is a warm, water-resistant, eco-friendly, and low-maintenance option. While cork is susceptible to damage, it remains a budget-friendly kitchen option for homeowners. On top of that, cork floors provide a comfortable and cushion-like feel underfoot.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – the most inexpensive yet functional flooring solutions for your kitchen. Keep in mind that you have a huge variety of styles and options to choose from. So, don’t be afraid to experiment if you want something different in your kitchen. Just have a clear preparation to select that perfect flooring for your taste and lifestyle.
Happy flooring!
