I'm planning to replace the floor in my kitchen. What substance would work better: tile, laminate, or something else?
by
Rosemary N
+10
Thanks for your help!
13 answers
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i like tile myself, but thats just my personal preferance., depends on what you want, and how much you can afford
RMJ Enterprises
on Dec 07, 2011
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Rosemary...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.
KMS Woodworks
on Dec 07, 2011
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Thanks! 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?
Rosemary N
on Dec 07, 2011
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Tile 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.
KMS Woodworks
on Dec 07, 2011
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If 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.
Dan's of Central Florida, Inc.
on Dec 07, 2011
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Another vote for tile, and Dan's and KMS have great tips.
3po3
on Dec 07, 2011
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Tile 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!
Yamini LEED AP at Urbanmotifs
on Dec 08, 2011
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Thanks to all of you for your very helpful advice!! Tile it is!
Rosemary N
on Dec 08, 2011
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I'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.
Designs by BSB
on Dec 08, 2011
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Thanks 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!
Rosemary N
on Dec 12, 2011
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Glad 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.
3po3
on Dec 12, 2011
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another good thing about rugs is they can be washed when needed or swapped out for "design" change.
KMS Woodworks
on Dec 12, 2011
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I would go with Bamboo. It's durable, cost-effective and beautiful. Good luck!
Sandra Allen
on Oct 11, 2015
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