When planning for a new kitchen or a renovation of their current one, people focus more on their cabinetry, splashback, countertop, sink, and appliances. They often overlook their kitchen floor, until they realise that the floors stain easily and are too slippery.
A new kitchen is an expensive project. You want a space that you and your family to use for decades. You don’t want a kitchen that looks less attractive after a few years. To prevent this from happening to you, consider these factors:
The ideal kitchen floor material
Ceramic tiles are one of the most practical options in the market. These possess all the qualities of the ideal kitchen floor ⸺ easy to clean, durable, water-resistant, and stain-proof. You can easily wipe and mop any food spills on the floor!
These are affordable, which makes them an attractive option for homeowners on a tight budget.
Also, most ceramic tiles have a glaze that inhibits the growth of bacteria. The antimicrobial feature is definitely something that every homeowner wants in their kitchen.
READ: How to Properly Plan Your Kitchen Renovation
Using the right mortar and grout
Proper installation and using the correct adhesive/mortar are key to secure the ceramic tiles in place and to avoid popping and cracking in the future.
The grout is equally important. Use a grout that matches or beautifully contrasts the tiles. Seal the grout to make cleaning a breeze.
If you are planning to stick with ceramic tiles, make sure that you have a professional tiler on your team during construction.
Choosing the correct texture of the tile
There is heavy foot traffic in your kitchen on a daily basis, so you need to ensure the safety of everyone while cooking and moving around the area. Ceramic tiles with matte finishes or textured surfaces are perfect here. Matte surfaces are proven to reduce the risk of injury or accident caused by wet or slippery floor. Textured floors also protect you from accidents and provide aesthetic benefits as well.
Installing the right size to achieve the desired effect
It would be better to use big ceramic tiles (60×60 cm) on small kitchens to make the area seem bigger. The less grout you see, the more spacious the kitchen looks like.
Stuck with small tiles? Reduce the gap between tiles and use grout with a colour that’s almost invisible between each tile.
READ: Small kitchen ideas for a tiny condo or apartment
Choosing a tile design, colour, and pattern
A lot of homeowners think that patterned and coloured tiles are best used as splashbacks only. You can also lay these on the floor to create a stronger visual impact.
Ceramic tiles come in a wide variety of designs, colours, and patterns. If you are not sure which one to choose, ask your designer’s opinion. Don’t be scared of embracing exciting design elements. When it comes to patterns, balance is the key.
Other than ceramic tiles, what are my other options?
Polished concrete floors are highly-recommended by designers. These are durable, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.
Timber floors are also super popular to homeowners, but solid wood floors require regular maintenance to preserve its beauty. Busy homeowners are advised to choose their preferred engineered wood floors that are water-resistant and stain-proof. These look like solid timber floors minus the maintenance.
Get an appealing and comfortable kitchen floor
Don’t overlook the flooring in your kitchen. Picking out the right tile for your kitchen can add much to any space both aesthetically and practically.
If you’re ready to renovate or build a kitchen, book a FREE in-home consultation with one of our designers today.
