Ideas for Kitchen & Entryway Floor Covering

Tile

• Tiled flooring is a viable option for both the kitchen and an entryway. Ceramic tile is strong enough to withstand the traffic of these two areas; plus, it comes in a wide range of colors and designs to complement any decor. Ceramic tile cleans easily with simple mopping, though you should consider sealing the grout to keep it looking fresh.

  Slate is another tile option for kitchens and entryways. Slate and other natural stones are rich looking and add drama to the room. A bit more expensive than other flooring, slate is still a good choice due to its extreme durability. The only downside to slate tile in the kitchen is it is unforgiving to plates or glasses dropped on its surface.

Hardwood

• Hardwood flooring continues to be a choice for many homeowners for both kitchens and entryways. Easier on the legs than tile, hardwood is decorative as well as functional. Wood comes in a variety of colors, plank sizes and textures. Wood adds warmth to a room and can hold its own even when covered with area rugs or runners for high-traffic sections. Though hardwood is durable, it will lose its luster eventually. However, it can be sanded and refinished to extend its shelf life for a long period of time.

Concrete

• Concrete can conjure images of basement and garage floors, but it is actually a very versatile flooring option. It is the most durable floor available for well-used areas, because it lasts a lifetime. It is extremely difficult to damage a concrete floor, yet it can be as elegant as it is durable. Concrete floors can be customized to fit any look with an array of designs and colors. One option is to add a high-gloss clear coat finish that makes the floor look wet and easily reflects light, making a room appear to be larger.

Other Flooring Options

• Pre-finished laminate floors mimic the appearance of hardwood, but without the tedious installation process. Laminate flooring is much less expensive than traditional hardwood floors. Linoleum and vinyl tiles have both evolved into decorating dreams over the years, with a huge variety of designs and color options. Vinyl flooring has a cushiony texture that is easier on the legs, and it is a snap to mop clean. Linoleum enjoys an environmentally friendly reputation based on the materials used to make it.