Hardwood Kitchen Floors: What You Should Know

Compared to other surfaces in the home, the kitchen floor takes the brunt of just about everything — from spilled milk at the table to dirty paw prints from the dog. That’s why this high-traffic room needs a floor that can truly withstand ordinary wear and tear. But it begs the question:  Is a hardwood kitchen floor a good choice? As long as spills are wiped up right away and a minimal maintenance routine is followed, then the answer is a definitive yes.

 

Clear water-based finishes are one of the best ways to go because they retain the color of the wood and can be easily re-coated or touched up. One of the strongest water-based finishes, however, is an acrylic-impregnated, factory applied finish that penetrates deep versus just coating the surface. Though it costs more, it’s often a good choice because it requires less maintenance, and it’s durable. The sheen of a finish varies from low-shine satin to high-gloss. Satin-sheen finishes are usually the best types of hardwood flooring because of their ability to hide food and other particles.

 

Hardwoods, like maple, cherry and oak, are the strongest. Softwoods, such as pine, may dent in spots, even if they’ve been treated with a penetrating finish. When comparing wood types, it’s important to consider the grain. Oak, for example, has a pronounced type of grain pattern that hides dents and dirt better than woods with more subtle grains.

Surprisingly, there’s not that much maintenance required for a kitchen wooden floor. Along with wiping up spills right away, after a kitchen remodel be sure to place rugs at entrances that lead to the outside and in front of sinks and appliances. Place protective pads under furniture legs, too.

Currently, dark flooring and gray flooring are two of the trending looks today for a hardwood kitchen floor. However, the best match will depend on a home’s design, the budget and individual taste. When deciding, a trained and licensed contractor can be extremely helpful during the process. When maintained well, hardwood flooring can last a lifetime. Not to mention, it’s a terrific investment because it increases a home’s value.

 

To learn more about hardwood flooring for the kitchen contact our professionals at Michael Bogues Construction. Our flooring team can answer your questions as well as provide quick and quality installations! Give us a call or get a free quote.