In This Post:
– Pros of Installing Wooden Flooring in the Kitchen
– Cons of Wooden Flooring in the Kitchen
– FAQs of Wooden Flooring in the Kitchen
Wooden flooring is considered an ideal choice by many homeowners because of its warm tones, exuberance and luxurious appeal. However, many professionals and experts also warn of the perils of installing hardwood floors in wet locations. There are many companies that claim that the hardwood floor has a finish that can resist water, but none of the manufacturers have declared that the wood floor is waterproof.
But since the kitchen is one of those areas that is slightly moist and not completely drenched in water like bathrooms, it is quite possible to install wooden flooring in the kitchen. Before you take the decision, you must weigh the pros and cons of wooden flooring in the kitchen.
Should You Install Wooden Flooring in the Kitchen?
If you are planning to install a wood floor in the kitchen, you must consider a number of factors. Do you have playful kids at home who would wreak havoc in your kitchen, causing water spillages every now and then? If yes, then installing a hardwood floor in the kitchen might not be a great idea. Similarly, if your kitchen is placed next to a swimming pool, then there will be more people plodding into the kitchen with wet feet.
A lot depends on how you use the kitchen. Moreover, you will have to take necessary precautions and also keep in mind ways to protect hardwood floors in the kitchen in order to maintain its timeless appeal.
First, let us discuss some of the advantages of a wooden floor in the kitchen and then we will discuss its disadvantages to help you decide better.
Pros of Wooden Flooring in the Kitchen
Check out some of the pros of installing hardwood flooring in the kitchen.
Timeless Appeal
There is no denying the fact that hardwood floors have a timeless appeal to them. They instantly bring a luxurious appeal to the kitchen, giving it a contemporary look. The fact that hardwood floors can be refinished to make them look brand new, adds to its timeless appeal. Since wood floors come in a variety of natural colours, you can easily pick and choose the one that complements with your overall décor.
Increases Home’s Value
If you are considering reselling your property somewhere down the road, then you should invest in a good quality wooden floor for the kitchen. It enhances the property’s value ten fold.
Durable
Unlike tiles and marble that get chipped or cracked, hardwood floors are quite durable. They don’t crack and can stay the same for a lifetime, only if you are careful with water spillages in the kitchen. It is also recommended to go for a polyurethane spray that is designed to prevent spills and splatters penetrating the surface. You can’t use the same oil finish you use for hardwood floors in a living room, a polyurethane designed finish on the floor can protect the wooden floor from water spillages and cooking splatters for a long time.
Warm Under Feet
Tile and marble are cold and can be a bit of a problem during the cold winter season. Hardwood floors tend to exude warmth and comfort. If you choose yellow undertones, the kitchen will appear warmer visually as well.
Cons of Wooden Flooring in the Kitchen
Here are some drawbacks and disadvantages of wooden flooring in the kitchen.
Pricey
One of the biggest drawbacks of installing wood floors is that it is a bit heavy on the pocket. You need to pay a fortune to get the desired luxurious look in your kitchen. Other popular kitchen flooring materials like luxury vinyl flooring or ceramic and porcelain tiles are much less costlier than hardwood floors. If you are looking for flooring options that mimic wood, but don’t need to be maintained and polished regularly like hardwood floors, then go with vinyl flooring.
Not Water-Proof
A major reason why homeowners think twice before installing a wooden floor in the kitchen is that it is not water-proof and can be a big problem. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause hardwood flooring to swell and warp, which means you will have to replace your wooden flooring more often than not, if you are not careful with the moisture content.
Requires Regular Maintenance
Hardwood floors require maintenance. You need to keep the floor dry, which means any cooking splatter, grease spots near the sink and water spillages need to be instantly taken care of. You can’t let water or oil splatters sit on a hardwood floor or else it will spoil the finish and the water can seep in causing it to warp and loosen up at the seams.
There are a few commonly asked questions that we have also covered in this blog:
FAQs
Is it OK to put hardwood floors in a kitchen?
Hardwood floors are an ideal option for kitchens as they come in a variety of designs and natural colours. It can easily absorb dust and debris, making it quite easy to clean.
How to protect hardwood floors in a kitchen?
There are a few areas in the kitchen that are more prone to cooking splatter and water spillages like next to a dishwasher or sink. Strategically placing rugs in such places can really help in protecting your investment. If you have a dine-in area in the kitchen or a kitchen island with high stools, make sure to place felt protectors under the furniture to avoid scratches and scuffs.
What is the best wood floor for a kitchen?
Hardwood floors like oak, maple and cherry are durable and have a grain pattern that can easily hide away dirt and grime. But oak is towards the lighter end of the spectrum, so if you prefer dark-hued kitchen floors then opt for walnut and mahogany, which can be pricey, but really give an elegant finish.
Should I put tile or hardwood in my kitchen?
Hardwood floors are stylish and look expensive. They also come in various natural colours for the look you want. Moreover, hardwood floors exude warmth which is a characteristic feature of kitchens. It is also warm under the feet better than tiles. Wood floors tend to hide dirt well, while you need to keep cleaning and mopping tile floors for a spic and span kitchen.
We hope these pros and cons of installing wood floors in a kitchen would help you make a better and an informed decision. You must also take a look at our blogs where we have discussed other wooden flooring options:
- Budget-friendly alternatives to wooden flooring
- Best flooring ideas for your kitchen
- Hardwood vs. softwood flooring
Don’t forget to write to us at blog@zameen.com and we will surely get back to you. Subscribe to the Zameen Newsletter appearing on the right hand side of the page. Stay tuned to the best real estate blog in Pakistan.
