Options for flooring materials include: hardwood floors, porcelain or ceramic tile, stone flooring, and wood laminate floors. Laminate wood flooring in kitchens are composed of several layers of engineered material sandwiched together, with a photograph of wood laminated on top. It is designed to imitate the look of real hardwood. Resisting scratches and scuffs, thanks to an internal "wear layer," so it's a good option for homeowners whose kitchens must contend with small kids, pets or heavy use.
Laminate wood flooring was chosen for this project, Kitchen Remodel - Before & After #8, as the ceiling height is only 76" (6'-4"), and adding another layer of sub floor and solid wood floor would lose too much height for them.
Made out of tongue and groove planks, it is easy to install. There are easy to find "floating," or glueless, versions that make installation a breeze. The planks float over a film underlayment, providing a moisture proof vapor barrier and sound reducing properties. The underlayment may come attached to the strips of flooring, or may be a loose pad that has to be installed first. This is a very good option for basement flooring, laundry room or in a condo.
Existing baseboards (skirting boards) can be removed and then reinstalled after laying of the flooring is complete for a neater finish.
There is also laminate flooring with a tile pattern to achieve the look of tile. Benefits include having a material that is easier on your back and eliminating the weight of the tile, mastic, grout and subfloor.
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Cost: About $2 to $4 per square foot, uninstalled.
Would this floor work for you? Not sure? Ask us! We are here to answer any questions!