Hardwood flooring is one of those floors that never go out of style. Yet, many homeowners are apprehensive about installing hardwood in their kitchen for a few (good) reasons. Yet, with proper care and maintenance, hardwood flooring in your kitchen and home can last a lifetime!

In kitchens, hardwood makes for a slightly more comfortable flooring surface than harder materials, such as stone or ceramic tile, but it is considerably harder than more resilient flooring materials, such as for example, LVP flooring. Some dishware might survive falls onto hardwood flooring, but at the same time, a dropped can of vegetables could dent the wood. Hardwood will also feel warmer underfoot than ceramic or stone tile, though not as comfortable as vinyl.

Maintaining Hardwood in Your Kitchen

One reason that people think twice about hardwood flooring in kitchens is that kitchens are high traffic areas – especially with children and dogs. In this situation, one way to avoid and minimize the wear is by the use of mats and area rugs and runners. Mats in front of the sink can help protect the floor from constant wear and potential water droplets. Consider placing a runner on the main walking space to help keep the floor protected.

Clean up messes right away

Cleaning up messes AS SOON as they occur is a life saver for your floors. It’s the kitchen, and spills are bound to happen; but cleaning them sooner rather than later will save your floors from damage. When ice cubes drop from the fridge ice maker, don’t kick them under the fridge. Instead, it is best to pick them up to avoid them melting and causing water damage.

Strategically place mats

Pets make such a mess when drinking from their water bowls. Placing a mat underneath dog bowls helps avoid, in my case, most, of the water from getting on the hardwood. If water does get on the hardwood floors, be sure to clean the area right away and let it dry completely.

Keep an eye on appliances

Sinks leak sometimes, but so do appliances. Always keep an eye on your appliances especially your refrigerator and dish washer. Many times, these appliances leak. If not detected soon enough, the water will damage your floor. Although a leak isn’t always avoidable, with proper attention, you can minimize the damage that can occur. Water damage signs include spacing, buckling, crowning or cupping, and color change and pulling up from the subfloor.

Is Hardwood Flooring in the Kitchen Right for You?

Hardwood floors in the kitchen are beautiful, warm, inviting and classic. With the proper care and maintenance, your floors are sure to last. Hardwood flooring is a good choice for your kitchen if you are willing to be diligent about caring for it, and want the appeal of wholly natural flooring material.

Are You Looking for Flooring for Your Kitchen in Northern Virginia?

There is a wide variety of hardwood flooring, luxury vinyl plank flooring, or tile that would work well for a kitchen, depending on your needs. If you would like more information about the benefits of hardwood flooring or the options we offer at Premier Flooring, please reach out to our team. We can’t wait to help you enhance your home! If you are looking for flooring in Northern Virginia, please contact us to schedule a free consultation.