Floor covering for the kitchen what to choose

Floor covering for the kitchen what to choose - this issue arises in all homeowners who decided to carry out repairs in this room. It should be said that the task of choice is far from easy, since today in the assortment of building stores such an abundance of various materials is presented, which, without having information about them, can easily be lost. Therefore, it makes sense to further consider the most popular flooring for the kitchen and get a closer look at their characteristics.

Well, first you need to decide on the requirements that must be met by the floor covering in the kitchen.

Selection criteria for kitchen flooring

Since the kitchen is one of the most visited in the apartment orhouse of premises, it is quite possible to consider it as a zone of increased intensity of movement of people. In addition, when selecting materials, it is necessary to take into account factors such as temperature changes, high humidity and the presence of a large number of vapors of different origin, which, one way or another, will affect all the finishing materials of this room. Therefore, the floor covering should have the following qualities:

• Water resistance of .In the kitchen, the floor covering can not escape the effects of moisture - it's not only evaporation and splashing during cooking and dishwashing, but also frequent washing of the floors.

In addition, water and sewer pipes pass through the kitchen premise, which also causes moisture, and this fact can not be ignored when choosing a floor covering.

• Low hygroscopicity .Not only that the material will be inert to moisture, it is necessary that it does not absorb it into itself, otherwise under the coating will create a favorable environment for the emergence of colonies of microflora - mold and fungus. They will negatively affect not only the coating itself, but also the screed or the wood laid under it.
• Shock resistance .The kitchen is a room in which there are a large number of different heavy objects of utensils and other kitchen utensils, so there is always the risk of accidentally dropping one of them on the floor. Given this, you need to choose a material that can withstand the impact of a cast-iron frying pan or cauldron falling from a height of one meter.
• Hygiene. The floor covering should be easy to clean from dirty and greasy raids and stains.
• Slippery material. For the above reasons, such as the ingress of grease and water onto the surface of the coating, it is necessary to take into account that these compounds should not easily spread along the floor and slide under your feet. Otherwise, this factor can lead to domestic injuries. The surface should not be perfectly smooth - the rough surface is more suitable.
• Wear resistance. As the cooking process takes place daily in the kitchen, a fatty coating can form on the floor covering, especially near a gas or electric stove, which can be difficult to remove. Therefore, brushes and abrasive powders are often used to bring the floor to order. Given this, it is necessary to choose a coating that can withstand such cleaning, or one that does not absorb and does not accumulate a fatty coating.
• Resistance to abrasion. The kitchen is a room frequented by all the family members, but most of all in it the hostess is constantly in motion during cooking. Therefore, the surface layer of the coating, as well as its decorative layer, should be resistant to abrasion.
• Requirement to the base. When choosing a coating, it is necessary to take into account the fact that some of the materials must be laid or laid on a carefully prepared base.

If there is no possibility or desire to carry out such work, a coating is obtained that can be laid on the previously laid material, of course, if it is in good condition and securely fixed to the floor surface.

• Resistance to temperature changes. If it is planned to install a "warm floor" system in the kitchen, then you need to choose a coating that can withstand temperature changes not only from the outside, but also from the bottom. In addition, the material must have a high thermal conductivity.

• Designer solution. If you plan to divide a kitchen premise into zones by designating them with different flooring materials or different colors, you need to think carefully about their connecting line, as well as compliance with all the above requirements. It should be noted that properly selected by texture and color, the material is able to visually expand the small space of the standard kitchen of the city apartment.

Key features of popular floor coverings

Now, knowing all the qualities that a floor covering for a kitchen area should have, one can consider the advantages of the most popular ones.

Ceramic tiles

Ceramic tiles are today one of the most popular floor coverings for premises such as a bathroom, an entrance hall and a kitchen. If this material is spread in the kitchen of a private house or over an unheated room, the system "warm floor" is most often placed under it, because in itself this material is cold, but has a high thermal conductivity.

If you decide to use ceramic tiles for the kitchen floor, you should familiarize yourself with some of its basic characteristics. They will help determine the right choice of this material.

• Abrasion Resistance

Wear resistance of ceramic tiles is defined by five categories, and depends on the degree of its selectivity. This indicator has the abbreviation PEI:

- PEI I - the tile that has this marking is intended solely for wall finishing.

- PEI II - a similar material category is used for the floor of bedrooms and bathrooms. For such coverage it is recommended to walk only in shoes on a soft sole or barefoot.

- PEI III - material of this category can be laid in any of the rooms, except the hallway, as it does not have sufficient resistance to abrasion.

- PEI IV - tiles with this marking are used to cover floors in public buildings, as it has a high level of wear resistance. Therefore, this version of the material is good for flooring kitchens and hallways.

- PEI V - this category has the highest degree of wear resistance, and is usually purchased for installation in places of increased traffic of people, for example, for shops. Therefore, this option is also suitable for the hallway and kitchen. True, the expediency seems questionable: the strength characteristics of such a coating are excessive for apartment conditions, and the price is much higher.

Based on the above arguments, it can be concluded that the most optimal option for the kitchen floor will be a tile that has the category of wear resistance PEI IV, in extreme cases - PEI III.

• Resistance to chemical agents

The resistance of ceramic tiles to chemical influences is denoted by the letter symbols: AA, A, B, C and D. Maximum resistance to aggressive chemical agents is the material denoted by the letters A and AA.These categories, as well as tile B, are well suited for styling in kitchens.

• Moisture resistance

The level of moisture resistance depends on the method of making tiles - this is pressing( B) and extrusion( A).Tiles manufactured by the pressing method have high density and strength, and the material produced by extrusion technology has a more porous structure.

Ceramic trimming material is divided into three categories, each of which has an additional letter designation, and is characterized by its moisture absorption parameters, in% of the mass:

-AI and BI-the most moisture-resistant ceramic tiles. The moisture absorption of its surface is only 3%.

- AIIa and BIIa - these categories absorb from 6% to 10% moisture from the total mass and have good frost resistance;

- AIII and BIII - is the least waterproof tile, as its moisture absorption exceeds 10%.

The tile, which has the number I in the category designation, is intended for the lining of bathrooms and swimming pools. If desired, it is quite possible to use it in the kitchen.

II category is often used for exterior decoration works.

III category is used for floor and wall finishing only indoors with a normal humidity level. For the kitchen this is far from the best option.

The level of moisture resistance directly affects the cost of tiles - the higher the category, the greater the price set for it.

• Surface of tile

Surface of tile can be glossy, matte, embossed, rough and polished. The best option for the kitchen is a relief, rough, and, in extreme cases, matte tiles - these options are almost non-slippery and safe to walk, even over a slightly damp surface. However, do not choose a tile with too deep a relief, as in its deepenings dirty deposits will be hammered, which will be difficult to clean.

The slipperiness of ceramic tiles is indicated by the coefficient of friction and this parameter should be paid special attention, since the safety of being in the kitchen depends on it. The friction coefficient is divided into 4 categories:

- The maximum safe tile has a digital designation of 0.75.

- Conditionally safe material is designated 0,39 ÷ 0,74.

- Dangerous, that is, slippery enough, has a friction coefficient of 0.22 to 0.39.

- Very slippery, its coefficient is not less than 0.19.On a floor such tile to stack it is impossible.

From these parameters it can be concluded that a rough or embossed tile has a maximally safe coefficient of friction, and a smooth and glazed tile has a lower value and is not suitable for flooring.

• In addition to the above characteristics, please pay attention to the grade of the tile - this parameter indicates the amount of possible rejects in each package - the mismatch of dimensions, the linearity of the material, etc. Three types of ceramic are distinguished, each of them is usually labeledwith its color:

  - I grade( red) - has no more than 5% of conditionally defective items;

  - II grade( blue) - has up to 20% defective material;

  - III grade( green) - this is the lowest quality and inexpensive products.

  There are other characteristics, and there are a lot of them, but the main ones are listed above, which you need to pay special attention to. In order not to get confused in the parameters, when going to the store, it is necessary to write out the necessary data, and, based on them, make a choice of the desired sample.

  • Decorability

  It should be said a little about the decorative qualities of ceramic tiles, as this will determine the overall appearance of the kitchen interior.

  Nowadays a very wide variety of floor tiles for various colors and patterns can be found in the trade range, which can imitate natural materials, or simply be decorated with interesting patterns and ornaments.

  

  Very well looks a well-chosen combination of several types of ceramic tiles

  Tiles can have a relief pattern, giving the floor a richer "carpet" look. Choosing the finishing material by this criterion, it is necessary to take into account its harmony in color, texture and relief with the design of the rest of the interior.

  

  Mosaic tiling of ceramic tiles on the floor is able to visually expand the narrow space

  It is important to choose the right tile in shape and size, as this criterion will determine whether the kitchen space will expand visually or it will look smaller than it actually is. Today, you can find material of various configurations and sizes on sale - the tile can have geometrically correct and the same shape, so if you want you can realize any ideas and design ideas. In addition to the tiles, it is always possible to purchase relief borders or "carpet" elements.

  Linoleum for the kitchen

  

  One of the most practiced solutions is the covering of the kitchen floor with high-quality linoleum

  Despite the abundance of new materials, linoleum can still be called the most popular flooring not only for the kitchen, but also for any of the rooms in the apartment. The main thing is to choose the one that is ideal for this or that room.

  Linoleum varieties

  In the flooring shops, you can find linoleum of two main types - it's natural and made from synthetic raw materials. Each of them is suitable for different rooms, and has its advantages and disadvantages.

  Linoleum on synthetic basis

  The most popular is linoleum, made on the basis of synthetic raw materials, as it is affordable even for a family with an average income. It is sufficiently durable - high-quality artificial linoleum, if observed the rules of operation and maintenance, will last 12-15 years.

  Artificial linoleum is made from various materials, but for use in apartment houses, the material is most often purchased from PVC, which, according to experts, is the most safe for humans, with the exception of some cases of individual intolerance.

  

  Layout of multi-layer PVC linoleum

  Linoleum intended for residential use is a multi-layer structure:

  • The bottom layer is the basis of the material.
  • Elastic, made of foamed polyvinyl chloride support.
  • Reinforcing glass fiber layer, giving the material strength.
  • Another layer of polyvinyl chloride, having a smaller thickness.
  • A layer consisting of a decorative film with a pattern printed on it.
  • Transparent layer, which increases the wear resistance of the material.
  • Top protective film.

  Multilayer linoleum is referred to as heterogeneous.

  If the material consists of one layer( not counting the upper protective film), then it is called homogeneous. Such a material can be either very thin or have a thickness of 10-15 mm. Homogeneous linoleum - a quality material, but does not differ in the variety of decorative textures - usually this is a monochrome design, sometimes "decorated" with color impregnations.

  

  Homogeneous linoleum, as a rule, monophonic, only with color impregnations.

  The most common PVC linoleum has practically all the above requirements for the kitchen flooring:

  • Water resistant material.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Resistant to abrasion and mechanical stress.
  • Durable enough - its service life on average is 12 ÷ 15 years.
  • Affordable price.
  • Linoleum is easy to install on its own, as it is quite simple to lay.
  • This floor covering is represented by a very wide range of design solutions. Linoleum can imitate parquet, ceramic tiles, cork flooring or plank floor, as well as many other ornamental or clear geometric patterns.
  • Some embossed designs are not only decorative, but also an anti-slip element of linoleum coating.

  Artificial linoleum is of three classes: commercial, semi-commercial and household. For flooring in the premises of the apartment it is necessary to choose only the household version of the material, which is classified as 21, 22 and 23 class and has a thickness of 3 ÷ 5 mm.

  The figure "2" standing in front, indicates that the material is intended for living quarters, and the second figure shows the resistance of linoleum to loads. For example, "1" is a low resistance, and "3" is the highest abrasion resistance for a household version of such a floor covering.

  Table for the classification of household linoleum.

  Linoleum class	Grade symbols placed on the packaging	Permissible load level	Load intensity	Optimal application places for the
  21		low	Low-traffic rooms or low-traffic areas.	Pantry and bedroom.
  22		average	Premises with an average degree of movement of people.	Living room, dining room, study and kitchen.
  23		high	Premises with traditionally high traffic of people	Kitchen and hallway.

  This table shows that for the kitchen, in principle, 22, but it will be even better - 23 class flooring.

  Semi-commercial and commercial classes are more stable, but they have higher content of non-harming components for humans, and their use in domestic conditions is not welcomed.

  Linoleum PVC tiles

  Linoleum is produced not only in the usual rolls, but in other forms, easier to install.

  

  Laying flexible linoleum PVC tiles

  You can buy PVC linoleum in square or rectangular tiles - these materials can simulate a ceramic coating, parquet or laminate. Mounted such a tile is quite simple, since it usually has on its reverse side an adhesive layer, covered with a protective substrate. However, for the laying process to pass easily, and as a result, the coating turned out to be qualitative, the base for it should be almost perfectly smooth and smooth.

  There is a linoleum of this form of release their advantages and disadvantages, which you also need to know before you stop on it your choice.

  To the positive qualities of PVC-tiles can be attributed both the ease of laying the material, and the ability to replace areas damaged during operation. It is not necessary to remove the whole coating or cut out a separate area of ​​it and look for a suitable replacement for it. To dismantle the replacement site, you just need to remove the damaged tiles, and in their place, fix new ones. Proceeding from this circumstance, it is recommended to buy it with a reserve when buying a cover, that is, take 5 ÷ 10 tiles more than is actually required for the kitchen floor area. They are inexpensive, and such a reserve will not "hit your pocket".

  To the positive qualities is the fact that from the tiles of PVC of different colors all kinds of drawings and compositions are created, that is why the interior of the kitchen can be made absolutely exclusive. A wide color scale of monophonic material, as well as having ornamental patterns, allows you to choose the right decorative option for a particular interior.

  The obvious drawback of tiled linoleum can be called too many seams, which is not very good for covering the kitchen floor, because in this room the humidity is increased due to fumes of different origin - this can lead to a gradual detachment of the material from the substrate. If, after all, there is a desire to use tile linoleum in the kitchen to cover the floor, then it is necessary to prepare the foundation very well for it. It must be perfectly even and of good quality primed.

  Natural linoleum( marmoleum)

  Natural linoleum, also marmoleum, is made from cork and lime powder, linseed oil and wood flour with the addition of natural coloring pigments. The basis for this type of material is flax or jute fibers or nonwoven materials.

  

  Natural linoleum( Marmoleum) is designed for years of operation

  Technological principles of production of this natural flooring have not changed for many decades - only the drawings were modernized in accordance with the new interior styles. Marmoleum has a large number of positive qualities that meet the requirements for kitchen flooring. These include:

  • Durability - the coating serves from 20 to 45 years.
  • Environmentally friendly coating.
  • Resistance to ultraviolet radiation, as well as to chemical aggressive and detergent compositions.
  • High wear resistance.
  • Additional sound and heat insulation of the floor.
  • Flaxseed oil, which is part of the marmoleum, gives the material antiseptic properties.
  • Natural material is non-hygroscopic, easy to clean, does not absorb grease and dirt.

  Marmoleum is most often produced in calm pastel colors, and this gives the interior a cozy and stable.

  

  The perfect solution for those who love the quiet pastel colors of the kitchen decoration

  The main drawback of the material is its high cost, so he is more likely to prefer synthetic linoleum. In addition, the material is demanding to the base, and it is better to entrust it to the specialist, since it is only spread over the glue, applying it throughout the kitchen area.

  "Liquid linoleum"

  Although this material is made in the section of linoleum, it, by and large, is not such.

  

  "Liquid linoleum" is a popular name for decorative polymeric bulk floors

  "Liquid linoleum" is sometimes called a bulk polymer floor. Despite the relatively high price and complexity of independent execution, such coverage is becoming more popular, as it has a lot of advantages that fully meet the criteria described above.

  • "Liquid linoleum" has the longest service life of all kinds of synthetic materials for floors.
  • This coverage can be created based on your own sketches. A variety of possible drawings does not go in comparison with any of all existing floor coverings.
  • The surface of the floor differs excellent water resistance and non-hygroscopicity. Moreover, the filled polymer layer becomes simultaneously an excellent waterproofing.
  • In the future, if it is decided to make repairs in the kitchen and change its design, the flooring floor will not have to be dismantled, as it in itself creates a perfectly smooth and smooth base that is suitable for laying any other covering.
  • This kind of coating is made of polyurethane or epoxy resin, therefore it is environmentally friendly, harmless, biologically resistant material.
  • "Liquid linoleum" has the ability to visually expand the space, as it has the effect of 3D-drawing.

  The disadvantage of the flooring floor is not only its high enough cost, but also that it will have to invite a specialist for its installation. The filling process is quite complex, and in order for the coating to turn out to be of high quality, it is necessary to have relevant work experience.

  How to choose the right linoleum?

  When selecting a linoleum for the kitchen, you need to pay attention to the following parameters, which speak about the quality of the material:

  • The conscientious producer always leaves the contact details of his company on the packaging. This factor indicates that he is confident in the quality of his products.
  • At the request of the buyer, the seller-consultant must provide a quality certificate for the goods.
  • The material should not have a bad smell.
  • There should be no damage to or damage to the product on the front or inside surfaces.
  

  Draw lines should be clear, not blurred."Floating" outlines indicate a violation of

  • production technology. The figure on the coating must be clear, and its step must be observed.
  • The surface of the linoleum should be uniform - relief or smooth, depending on the chosen type. If, however, the relief or, conversely, the smoothness is disturbed in some places, the material is considered to be defective.
  • If you buy a narrow linoleum, and it is planned to cover it in two sheets, which will fit together, it is very important to make sure that both rolls are from the same lot, otherwise they may differ in tint. The batch number must be found on the package.

  Which linoleum patterns are best for the kitchen?

  As mentioned above, during cooking it is very difficult to avoid evaporation and contamination of the floor covering. Therefore, it is better not to choose for this room a plain linoleum of light shades, on which even the small spots that fall on it will immediately give an inaccurate look to the whole room. It is recommended to purchase a coating of such a color that it can hide minor dirt, or it will have to be cleaned after each cooking.

  

  Linoleum in the kitchen should not be too light - the imitation of wood or natural stone, probably, will be the best option.

  . The linoleum, having a water color pictoriality, which meets on the texture of a cut of wood and stone of different breeds, is suitable for a kitchen. Such drawings imitate the relief forms of natural materials, and it is quite possible to hide small dirt, the removal of which can be postponed for a while, until the kitchen is thoroughly cleaned.

  Drawing and color of linoleum can visually expand or narrow the room, extend it or shorten it.

  

  The right direction for laying a picture of a linoleum can visually expand or extend the kitchen area of ​​the

  . For example, if a linoleum imitates a massive board or rectangular lamellae of a laminate and places them across a narrow kitchen, the room will appear visually wider. If it is necessary to create an extension effect, then such material should be mounted along the room.

  Visually increase the space squares of contrasting colors, applied to the linoleum in checkerboard pattern. This effect can be achieved independently, using linoleum tiles for flooring.

  Laminate for kitchen

  

  Laminate on the kitchen floor is beautiful, but requires extra care and caution when operating the

  Laminate is a relatively new floor covering, but has already become quite popular due to its simplicity of installation, affordable price and aesthetic appearance. However, it should be noted that for the kitchen room this material is still not the best option, since if the lamellas are poorly docked and moisture gets between them, the laminate can deform and exfoliate. Of course, there are different quality and grade coatings, but even if water is spilled onto the moisture-resistant laminate, it must be quickly removed.

  

  Even on a moisture-resistant laminate coating, it is still not worthwhile to leave puddles for long.

  This kind of flooring is given a diverse design - it can be an imitation of a wooden massif, a cut of stone rocks, a texture of the skin. In addition, the laminate can decorate and geometric patterns of varying degrees of complexity.

  

  Laminate with imitation of decorative parquet

  Some types of laminate can be used for flooring on top of the "warm floor" system. On the packaging of such material, it should be indicated that the material is suitable for such applications.

  How to choose a laminate?

  This material also has the appropriate classification both in terms of wear resistance and coating technology. Details choice of laminate for the house well outlined in the special publication of our portal.

  Wooden floor in the kitchen

  Wooden floors can be called traditional, as before wood was the most popular and almost the only available material for flooring. Today, wooden floors can be found in modern apartments quite rarely - often used materials that only mimic the tree. To a wooden floor lasted for a long time, he needs constant care, which, as always, does not have enough time.

  

  Wooden floor in the kitchen requires special care.

  If a wooden covering is chosen, for example, for laying on a concrete screed, then the material must be properly treated with various water-repellent impregnations, and after installation - it is covered with a special varnish. After such treatment, the floor surface will acquire all the qualities necessary for the kitchen: moisture resistance, hygiene, safety, high wear resistance, decorative, and low thermal conductivity, which means that the floor will be warm even without heating.

  But the wood that has not received proper processing will quickly become unusable, as it is sensitive to moisture, aggressive environment of chemical detergent compositions.

  Given that wood is a relatively light material, a covering of it can be made in an apartment of a multi-storey building - it will not increase the load on the interfloor.

  For the kitchen floor, high-quality, grooved boards from wood of such breeds as larch, ash or even oak are selected. The thickness of the boards depends on what height they will be lifted from the concrete base, but this parameter should not be less than 20 mm in any case. The width of the boards is usually from 90 to 150 mm, and their length will depend on the planned pattern of their laying.

  

  Board floor, laid out "ransack"

  To ensure a perfectly smooth surface, after installation, the boards are made with a special machine. For this purpose, you will most likely have to call a master.

  Linoleum PVC	- availability of the price; - simplicity of self-styling; - relative longevity; - a variety of colors and patterns; - easy to clean from dirt and grease; - water resistance and non-hygroscopicity; - resistance to detergents; - high wear resistance.	- synthetic base; - dents remain from the furniture legs on the surface of the material; - linoleum is sensitive to very high and low temperatures; - is unstable to solvents; - not restored.
  Linoleum tile PVC	- has all the qualities of linoleum. - quick restoration - easy replacement of individual tile parts.	The same drawbacks as linoleum, plus instability to moisture due to a large number of joints.
  Natural linoleum	- environmentally friendly material; - has bactericidal and antistatic properties; - long service life; - high wear resistance, comparable to commercial linoleum; - the material is resistant to damage, oily substances, moisture, and is not hygroscopic; - the cover fits well with the "warm floor" system.	- has a high price; - is complicated in the installation, since it is a piece of leather, and therefore requires a professional approach in laying.
  Laminate	- reasonable price; - elegant appearance; - relative ease of self-installation; - ease of daily cleaning; - hygiene; - has different wear resistance, depending on the class; - a variety of textured woody patterns and colors; - it is possible to choose the type intended for laying on the "warm floor" system.	Many types do not have resistance to moisture - they are stratified and deformed.
  Ceramic tiles	- the coating of this material is highly durable; - easy to care for; - does not deform from increased loads; - hygiene; - resistance to chemicals and high humidity; - perfectly combined with the system "warm floor"	- the material is "cold"; - pronounced fragility, that is, vulnerability to accented impacts; - considerable complexity of the quality styling; - many types have increased slipperiness, compared to other coatings.
  Cork cover	- the material has heat and sound insulation qualities; - resistant to moisture and not hygroscopic;is inert to household chemical compounds; - is not susceptible to damage by insects and harmful microorganisms; - cork coating is durable, as it can withstand mechanical stresses and abrasive loads.	- the material has a high price; - quite complicated in the installation; - it can be dented from heavy furniture; - over time requires the renewal of the protective coating.
  Solid wood board	- the wood is durable, reliable and durable; - has an aesthetic appearance; - the material is "warm" and the most favorable for humans; - there is the possibility of restoration of damaged areas.	- requires correct processing and coding; - high-quality board has a fairly high price; - requires professional installation; - the need for proper maintenance and renewal of the protective coating
  Parquet and parquet board	- ecological purity of the material; - durability with proper care; - possibility of restoration of damaged areas; - additional sound and heat insulation of the floor.	- high cost of both the material itself and installation work; - requires special care; - damaged from excessive moisture or, conversely, drying out.
  Name of floor covering	Advantages of	Disadvantages of

  

  Cute, but very controversial option for the kitchen - parquet flooring

  To the wooden floor covering, in addition to the array, you can also include a parquet board and parquet. If it is decided to arrange a cover in the kitchen only from wood, then it is better to give preference to a parquet or a parquet board made of hardwoods with high wear resistance and sufficient hardness. But, when choosing this material, it should be remembered that it must also be treated with compounds that will protect it from moisture, rapid abrasion and mechanical influences.

  Today on sale you can find parquet or parquet board of different shades and textures, so this cover can be chosen for every taste.

  Is it difficult to spread the wooden floor yourself?

  If you suddenly decide to make a boarding in the kitchen or in another room, it is worthwhile to get acquainted with the technological recommendations in this regard. Details flooring of wooden floors with their own hands - in a special publication of our portal.

  Cork flooring in the kitchen

  The cork cover has not yet received wide distribution - due to the high cost of the material and the considerable complexity of high-quality installation. However, it is absolutely undeniable that it has a lot of advantages that can even solve some problems.

  

  Excellent, though very expensive choice - a cover made of natural cork

  A cork is good for covering the floor in the kitchen. This material is warm and pleasant to touch, environmentally friendly, does not emit any harmful vapors. The cork is waterproof, it does not rot and does not deform from moisture, does not attract dust, and is also a good heat and sound insulator.

  Despite all the above positive qualities of this coating, it has its own "minuses".Thus, the cork floor may suffer from hot fat or heavy or sharp objects falling on it. Therefore, it is recommended for the kitchen to choose a cork material with a special wax impregnation and an external protective lacquer coating.

  For flooring in the kitchen, it is better to purchase cork material sold in rolls and glued on the substrate. Less suitable for the kitchen cork flooring, made on the basis of MDF, in the form of plates( by the type of laminated board), because between them can penetrate moisture.

  There are other flooring for the kitchen, less common, but due to the fact that probably there is not enough information about them yet. As an example, you can bring vinyl panels equipped with lock connections. Laying these panels is an affordable process that any host will quickly master.

  Video: laying of panel vinyl flooring

  For ease of choice - we compare the characteristics of

  As you can see from the above characteristics, all floor coverings have specific advantages, but they do not lack certain drawbacks. For clarity, you can summarize, highlighting their main qualities in a tabular form:

  Choosing a floor covering for a specific room, like a kitchen, requires a serious approach. In order not to have unnecessary hassle afterwards, it is necessary to carefully assess the pros and cons of this or that option, taking into account not only the individual qualities of materials, but also the possibility of daily care for them.