Wood floors are a popular choice for your whole house because they add warmth to any space. However, you may be debating whether or not you want to continue the wood into your kitchen. It is absolutely doable but there are things you definitely want to consider.
Wood will obviously require more maintenance than some other options. Kitchens tend to be a high traffic area. Just with normal everyday wear and tear, you will likely need to refinish your wood floors every five years or so. This would involve sanding, re-staining, and re-sealing. If low maintenance is your thing, it’s probably not the best option for you. However, wood is very durable, can last a long time when properly maintained, and is more comfortable underfoot than tile. The other consideration that is important is water usage in the kitchen. We all know water and wood don’t go together. It can cause swelling, warping, staining, etc. At that point, the damaged floor boards would need to be replaced which is not an easy task. You will need to be diligent in cleaning up small spills immediately and looking out for big spills. A floor mat in front of the sink can protect from splashes. However, the water you need to be more concerned about is from your appliances. Dishwashers and refrigerators can be sources of leaks that often aren’t discovered until it is too late and the wood is already warped. For this reason, some designers would say absolutely stay away from wood in kitchens and baths. However, if you are diligent in the maintenance of both the wood and your appliances it can be a viable option. If your kitchen is more of a show kitchen where you aren’t cooking regularly or running the dishwasher every day then all the more reason to install wood. It definitely warms up a space, and it is more timeless and versatile as a design finish.
If you like the look of wood but don’t want the maintenance, the available options for “wood-look” flooring continues to improve in both design and function. You can use vinyl or tile for completely waterproof options. Both are durable and hold up well to heavy wear and tear. The variety of colors is almost endless. Cleaning is very easy. Many are happy with these options in kitchen remodeling projects.
In the end, it comes down to form and function. What are the priorities in your design? It may not be the best option but it certainly is an option and it always looks beautiful no matter what design style you choose.