When choosing a coating for a kitchen floor, you need to take into account many details, because in this case the material should not be afraid of moisture, greasy stains and scratches. In addition, it is very important that the floor is easy to clean and that stains can be removed effortlessly. In order to determine the choice, it is necessary to analyze in detail the properties of the most popular floor coverings before buying.
Linoleum
LinoleumBoth natural and synthetic linoleum are a good option. Its main advantages include low price, good moisture resistance, as well as excellent sound insulation, which is especially important in apartment buildings. Modern types of linoleum differ from their predecessors of the Soviet era in a variety of design solutions: today you can easily find linoleum of any shade, and the number of drawings and patterns is simply amazing.
Linoleum, laid in the kitchen, will serve you 8-10 years even with the most severe use, provided that you choose a coating with a thick protective layer.
When purchasing synthetic linoleum, be sure to pay attention to such an important detail as the smell. The stronger it is, the more harmful additives are in the coating. Therefore, buy linoleum only in reputable stores: savings in this case can result in serious health problems.
Laminate
The use of laminate will allow you to easily create your dream floor: today manufacturers produce laminate with imitation of even the rarest types of wood, as well as marble and tiles. In addition, with the help of a laminate, you can make a warm floor, but the main thing is that you can purchase this type of coating at a very reasonable price.
A significant disadvantage of laminate flooring is its poor resistance to moisture. Before laying such a coating, it is necessary to make a good waterproofing of the screed, and during operation, make sure that no water gets on the floor. True, there is also a moisture-resistant laminate, but it costs an order of magnitude more expensive than usual.
If we talk about environmental safety, then the question of the manufacturer's honesty is fundamental. Buy laminate only from companies that have been working in this market for many years and have a good reputation. In order not to be disappointed in the purchase, ask the seller for a certificate, and also specify what type of premises the laminate is intended for.
Ceramic tile
This type of coating is by far the most popular. Ceramic tiles are affordable, practical, durable, and besides, they can be used to bring to life the most daring design decisions. Manufacturers annually release updated collections in a variety of colors, so you can easily find the exact option that suits your kitchen. And there will be no problems with the choice, because today on the market you can find products of a huge number of manufacturers: Emil Ceramica, Gamma Due, Keramamarazzi , Pamesa, etc.
Tiles with abstract or floral patterns will help to give the interior originality. Tiles laid out diagonally or staggered also look great, and if the flooring matches the color of the kitchen apron, the interior will look very stylish.
Modern ceramic tiles imitate a wide variety of materials: they can look exactly like fabric, leather, wood or marble. At the same time, its ecological qualities remain at their best. The tile is not afraid of direct sunlight, moisture and does not conduct electricity.
The only significant drawback is its "coldness". In the event that you have small children at home or you yourself are used to walking barefoot at home, it is better to make a warm floor under the tiles.
One more detail: you should not use glazed tiles for the kitchen floor, it is better to choose matte tiles: it is much safer, because even a small puddle on the shiny floor turns it into a kind of ice rink.
I hope this article will help you make the right and informed choice.