Things to Consider Before Installing Hardwood Floors in Your Kitchen

For some homeowners, the look that natural wood gives to their homes, especially in the kitchen, is very desirable. Hardwood flooring is both a durable and a long lasting choice that can add to your home’s value. If you are in the market for hardwood flooring for your home, or are in the process of considering new kitchen flooring installation, here are some pointers to keep in mind. The considerations that you should account for before having hardwood flooring installed in your kitchen include the durability of your new flooring, how easy wood is to maintain versus vinyl or other types of flooring and the benefits of using laminate or hardwood vinyl to get the same aesthetic without the expense of real wood.

Durability of Wood Floors

Hardwood is a surprisingly durable material for flooring, even in heavily trafficked areas like the kitchen. Although hardwood floors may be susceptible to scratches and can show wear over time, even heavily worn hardwood floors can be restored to bring out the wood’s natural beauty. If the cook in your household is prone to spills, or if you have small children or pets, the potential for stains may be off-putting. This risk can be offset by the use of a dark stain or a regularly applied sealant, however. In addition to their durability, hardwood flooring has energy efficiency benefits. Wood that has a thickness of just one inch has more insulating quality than 15 inches of poured concrete!

Maintenance of Hardwood Kitchen Flooring

Hardwood flooring that has been properly sealed resists mildew and does not absorb dust particles, making it a hygienic flooring choice. Wood floors require regular washing with a bucket of warm water and wood soap to protect their luster and maintain their attractive aesthetic appeal. In a home that has small children or a lot of foot traffic in and out of the kitchen, any blemishes that occur in your hardwood flooring, like scratches and dents, can easily be sanded out in order to maintain the look of the hardwood.

Benefits of Laminate or Hardwood Vinyl

One significant drawback to installing hardwood flooring that many homeowners are confronted with is the expense. Oak, cherry and other traditional hardwoods that are used in flooring installation can cost an average $10 to $15 per square foot to have installed, or slightly less if the installation is done as a DIY project. If the cost of real wood flooring is an issue, there are a few alternatives that offer both lower prices and easier installation: faux wood flooring, either in vinyl or laminate. The cost savings with either of these options, per square foot, can range from $4 to $10 depending on the type of flooring you choose, the manufacturer and whether you have it professionally installed.

If you’re considering installing hardwood floors in your home, take the time to speak with a professional installation expert about the advantages and benefits of hardwood floors, and alternatives like vinyl or laminate flooring. Installing new kitchen flooring can be a major remodeling expense, and having all of the facts in front of you can help you make an informed decision that will result in your home having beautiful floors for years to come.