A kitchen is often the hub of all activity in a household. Things like ample cabinetry, counter space, and room to entertain often take center stage. However, kitchen flooring is a major appeal factor that should not be an afterthought. Whether you just bought a new home or are working on a kitchen renovation, affordable but sophisticated flooring can make all the difference.
There are endless options for customizing the look of your kitchen, and the type of flooring you choose can make a big impact. When you are trying to decide on the most affordable flooring for your kitchen, it does not mean you don’t have to consider factors like the amount of traffic it gets, your family’s risk of making messes, and your style preferences.
Quality floors do not come cheap, but the installation costs can really add up, especially if you are working with a large space. And even if you’re planning to DIY the project, there are still some necessary costs like grout, goggles, and glue that can add up. Not to mention, you will need a place to store all of those materials after the project is done.
You can often find good value by going with less expensive flooring options. In this article you will learn the favorite flooring choices that are both stylish and budget-friendly from design experts.
Kitchen Flooring Checklist
When you are getting ready to install new kitchen flooring in your home, there are a few things you’ll need to think about before making your final decision.
First, you will need to decide on the material and style of flooring you want. Other than that, here are a few things to keep in mind when you are shopping for new kitchen flooring:
Budget
When you are making decisions about your new kitchen flooring, be sure to factor in your budget. And don’t forget to measure the square footage of the area you want to renovate. Many flooring manufacturers charge by the square foot, so having these measurements will help you estimate your costs.
Maintenance
When it comes to flooring, some materials require more maintenance than others. If you are looking for an easy floor cleanup routine, vinyl and tile flooring are often good options. They are usually easier to maintain than hardwood floors.
Style
When choosing your flooring, it’s important to think about what kind of atmosphere you want in your home. Do you prefer clean lines and a modern look? Are you drawn to a more rustic farmhouse style? Or are you looking for something unique and funky? Once you have considered the overall design theme you are aiming for, start thinking about the specific patterns, textures, and colors that you would enjoy seeing in your space.
Foot Traffic
You’ll want to consider your lifestyle when choosing a flooring type. If you have kids or pets, you will want something that is more resistant to spills and other messes. There are a variety of floors that are designed to be more durable, so take some time to research what would work best for your home.
Cheapest Kitchen Flooring
Porcelain Tiles
If you’re looking for a durable tile option for high-traffic areas, porcelain might be a good choice. It’s more scratch- and scuff-resistant than ceramic, and it comes in a variety of colors and finishes. The cost of a completed porcelain tile floor can range from $500 to $7,000, depending on the square footage of the room and the location of the house.
Vinyl Plank
Moisture protection is one of the key features that home owners look for when choosing kitchen flooring. Unfortunately, common flooring materials such as hardwood and laminate cannot withstand extended exposure to water. Tile is a more durable option, but it can be costly to install.
Vinyl Plank flooring is a great choice for your kitchen because it is 100% waterproof, easy to install, and scratch-resistant. There are many different styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that fits your style.
Bamboo
Sustainable and cheap bamboo flooring is a great way to extend your budget and be kind to the Earth. Bamboo is a type of grass that grows back quickly after harvesting, so you can feel good about using it in your home. You can find bamboo flooring in a wide range of colors to match your theme, and it’s affordable, so you can save money too!
Cork
Cork flooring is a great option for those who are looking for something unique, affordable, and durable. It also pairs well with adjacent wood flooring, making it a great option for those who have wood floors in their great room or dining room.
Although cork kitchen flooring might be at the higher end of inexpensive options, it offers great features such as being easy to install and offering added comfort for adventurous toddlers or aging elders.
Key Takeaway
Kitchen flooring is a major appeal factor that should not be an afterthought. Whether you just bought a new home or are working on a kitchen renovation, affordable but sophisticated flooring can make all the difference.
