Hardwood flooring
Looking for a kitchen floor that will stand up against high foot traffic and whatever life throws at it? Enter: the hardwood floor. Though not traditionally waterproof, this type of flooring can be made water-resistant, and several options are now pre-treated to save you having to seal the floor yourself. However, this does not mean you should let spillages sit around — if there's an excess of water on the floor, mop it up to prevent it from seeping into the wood.
Vinyl flooring
If you're looking for a flooring option that's within your budget, and has a variety of patterns, look no further than vinyl. Speaking to Homes & Gardens, hard flooring expert David Snazel shared, "Vinyl is a great and inexpensive way to add color, pattern and personality to kitchen flooring ideas without compromising on safety or quality. Being highly durable, slip-resistant and moisture proof, it is ideal for busy households with young children."
Natural stone tile
Natural stone tile may not be the first flooring option you think of for the kitchen, but it is one of the best when it comes to impact and heat resistance. Of course, stone isn't one style fits all. Different types of stone will offer various benefits — hard stone is best for general durability, whereas a softer stone could be a better option if you like something less taxing on the feet. Some of the most popular types of stone flooring include granite, slate, limestone, and sandstone.
Porcelain tiles
Not only does it look stunning, but porcelain tile flooring is also highly resistant to stains. It comes in a range of design choices, too. Per House Beautiful, designer Emily Black shared, "There's also lots of grouting colour options now. Mid-dark colours work better on floors as dirt can get ingrained." Borders can also be added for a little extra something. Unlike other types of tile, porcelain can be made to look like plenty of other materials you may like, but aren't quite as durable — for example, marble.
Laminate flooring
Unlike hardwood or porcelain tile, laminate floor is constructed from several different materials. It is typically made using particle board, a base, a middle layer, and a final layer on top for protection. Because of this top layer, laminate flooring is an excellent choice for your kitchen if you want something that won't show wear and tear even after lots of foot traffic. Much like vinyl, laminate can be made to look like several different types of flooring, allowing you to get the look of a wood floor without the hassle or upkeep. Laminate is also generally a lot less expensive than the flooring it can be made to look like.
Concrete flooring
If you want a flooring option that can withstand scratches up to an impressive degree, concrete floor could be right for your space. There are two ways to install this flooring: pour the concrete over an existing floor layer, or use it as the only layer. Polished concrete is popular for a more elegant look, and also comes in several colors. However, matte concrete is better at disguising any flaws that do occur.
Cork flooring
If you want flooring that's eco-friendly, cork is a great choice. Plus, in addition to it being kind to the environment, cork won't max out your budget. On average, it costs around $3 to $7 per square foot. Cork flooring also has a naturally springy, cushioned feel to it, so it'll be comfortable on your feet. As for the look of cork, it can give your home a ranch or barn-style look. Though it only comes in one style, cork naturally varies in color and pattern, similar to hardwood, so you don't have to worry about it being boring.