I'm planning to replace the floor in my kitchen. What substance would work better: tile, laminate, or something else?
-
RMJ Enterprises on Dec 07, 2011i like tile myself, but thats just my personal preferance., depends on what you want, and how much you can affordHelpful Reply
-
-
KMS Woodworks on Dec 07, 2011Rosemary...this question comes up a lot here. Many people chose on what they find attractive...which normally boils down to real hardwood or tile. As a remodel carpenter and flooring installer I have installed just about every thing except sheet vinyl. My recommendation is always for tile....hands down the best in terms of durability and ease of cleaning. Wood is a distant second. I have done dozens of hardwood repairs in kitchens, due to minor leaks and spills that have ruined the hardwood. I also have done dozens of hardwood "refinishes" in kitchens. Kitchens see some of the highest traffic in a home so getting the most durable flooring is why I always recommend tile. lots of people think a tile floor is harder on the feet than wood but this is normally just perception. If your concerned about comfort...pick out a nice area rug and or a decent pair of shoes.Helpful Reply
-
-
Rosemary N on Dec 07, 2011Thanks! I think tile is probably the right way to go. The tile itself isn't terribly expensive; is it easy to install for a do-it-yourselfer with no experience, or would I be wise to have a professional do it?Helpful Reply
-
-
KMS Woodworks on Dec 07, 2011Tile is not to hard for a DIY, you can rent a decent tile saw and attend a "tile workshop" at one of your local home centers or read some books or online tutorials. Just take your time and pay attention to the details....One of the biggest errors I see as a carpenter is tile height variations and uneven tile spacing....both can be avoided with attention to details.Helpful Reply
-
-
Dan's of Central Florida, Inc. on Dec 07, 2011If you have an out of the way or hidden area (such as a closet or pantry) in the kitchen, try tiling that section first so that you can get some practical experience at it. That way, even if you make a minor mistake, it is hidden behind closed doors. Tile is also what I always suggest as best for potentially wet areas such as kitchens, baths and laundry rooms.Helpful Reply
-
-
3po3 on Dec 07, 2011Another vote for tile, and Dan's and KMS have great tips.Helpful Reply
-
-
Yamini LEED AP at Urbanmotifs on Dec 08, 2011Tile it is, I have hardwoods and I run to wipe a stain or a spill it drives me crazy! Also if you like the look of wood, check out the wood tiles (Tiles that look and feel like wood) they look amazing!Helpful Reply
-
-
Rosemary N on Dec 08, 2011Thanks to all of you for your very helpful advice!! Tile it is!Helpful Reply
-
-
Designs by BSB on Dec 08, 2011I'll be exception here. Tile is my least favorite in a kitchen, maybe because I spend a lot of time there. a)hard on feet and body b)pretty much anything you drop that is glass will break c) cleaning the grout (minimal grout lines can help I have wood .. love it. Easy easy to keep clean and does not put a toll on my body.Helpful Reply
-
-
Rosemary N on Dec 12, 2011Thanks for all of your very good advice! I've decided to go with tile, even though it may be a little harder than wood might be. I'll just toss down a couple of area rugs in front of the sink and the stove; that should solve the problem. Really appreciate the responses and the advice I received, and next time I have a dilemma, I'll be back!Helpful Reply
-
-
3po3 on Dec 12, 2011Glad we could help. I suggest exactly that for folks who think tile is to hard - put down some throw rugs. There are some nice squishy pads that really make standing at the sink pretty comfortable. I would know, I spend plenty of time at the sink washing bottles and dishes for the little guy, who sometimes seems to eat all day.Helpful Reply
-
-
KMS Woodworks on Dec 12, 2011another good thing about rugs is they can be washed when needed or swapped out for "design" change.Helpful Reply
-
-
Sandra Allen on Oct 11, 2015I would go with Bamboo. It's durable, cost-effective and beautiful. Good luck!Helpful Reply
-
Related Discussions
Getting rid of wild day lilies
Our yard is covered with wild (I assume, since we never planted them)day lilies which have taken over our yard. Short of blasting them with Roundup, is there anything... See more
How do I clean dull vinyl siding?
I've had my vinyl siding power washed, but it is still dull, like oxidized or something. Is there a cleaner I can use?
whats the cheapest and most efficient way to clean mildew from vinyl siding on a doublewide mobile home?on a budget
How to remove green mold and/or stains along vinyl siding of our house
Well, we did bad!!!! Having scrubs like hemlocks, and other flowering (forsythea) evergreen-like lower plans on the north face of our home has left green stains on si... See more
What can I do about north Florida lawn weeds in the fall?
What is the most effective way to deal with Florida lawn weeds during the fall season? Additionally, what recommendations do you have for the best year-round lawn car... See more
Can you put a bar of soap in a toilet tank?
I am always looking for a good cleaning hack and came across one where a lady put a bar of soap in the toilet tank. Before I try this out, I was wondering if it could... See more