Moisture-resistant and durable – that's what wood flooring in the kitchen should be. No wonder, it's the room most susceptible to stains, dents, and damage.
While wood floors may not be the first choice for this high-traffic area, their timeless appeal and warmth make them an attractive option. In this article, we'll explore the considerations and benefits of choosing wooden flooring for your kitchen, helping you make an informed decision for a space that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Choosing the right wood for the kitchen
Selecting the right type of wood is crucial for a kitchen floor that can withstand the demands of daily use.
Hardwood and exotic woods such as beech, maple, oak, and ash offer the highest durability. Among exotic woods, jatoba, badi, or merbau are well-suited for kitchen flooring.
Opting for quality natural wood, with a focus on finishes and subsequent maintenance, is essential. Although this largely depends on the finishing of the wooden floor and its subsequent maintenance, some wood species are less resistant to dents and damage that may accompany kitchen activities. Oak and ash stand out as top choices among native wood species for their resilience in the face of dents and damage.
Solid or engineered wooden floor?
For those concerned about moisture-related issues with solid wood, engineered boards or traditional parquet with smaller tiles can offer dimensional stability. Understanding the differences between solid and engineered boards is crucial in making the right decision for your kitchen floor.
Maintenance tips for wooden kitchen floors
Maintaining a wooden kitchen floor requires a balance between functionality and appearance. Regular care, using recommended products from the flooring manufacturer, is vital.
Kitchen wood flooring is relatively easy to clean. Oiled and waxed boards do not absorb dust, do not cause allergies, and do not generate static electricity. Moreover, an additional layer of oil-wax can work wonders if you encounter significant damage or imperfections. So, you don't have to tear up and replace the entire floor if you notice any changes.
You should vacuum the kitchen floor frequently and remove tougher stains with a damp cloth using the appropriate maintenance product.
When spills occur, try to wipe them off the surface of the boards as quickly as possible. Speaking of…
Dealing with stains in the kitchen
The fear of stains often deters individuals from choosing wood for their kitchen floors. However, a practical test involving spilled coffee, wine, beetroot soup, and turmeric mixed with oil revealed promising results. Quick responses to spills, even after extended periods, showed that maintaining a wooden kitchen floor is manageable. While turmeric proved challenging, proper maintenance and responsible use of the floors are crucial for optimal results.
Stains on a wooden kitchen floor wiped off after 15 minutes. The second test involved removing the spilled liquids after 4 hours. We failed with the turmeric! However, as you can see, everything else looks beautiful.
Stains on a wooden kitchen floor wiped off after 4 hours. Finally, the liquids were left for 8 hours. Turmeric proved problematic again, but everything else looks perfect! In summary, you shouldn't be cooking curry :) Or cook it without spilling it on the floor... Remember that proper maintenance and the right use of the floors are crucial for such results.
Stains on a wooden kitchen floor wiped off after 8 hours. You don't need to be afraid of installing a wooden floor in the kitchen. While maintaining it in good condition may require a bit more effort than with tiles or linoleum, it's worth considering. A wooden floor in the kitchen works exceptionally well when you want to visually connect the kitchen with another room and create a beautiful, cohesive space.
Wooden floor in the kitchen — verdict
Installing a wooden floor in the kitchen may require a bit more effort in maintenance compared to alternatives like tiles or linoleum. However, the visual warmth and cohesion it adds to the space make it a worthwhile choice. If you're still uncertain about hardwood flooring for your kitchen, we’re here to provide guidance and address any doubts you may have.
Let your kitchen flooring reflect both functionality and style with a carefully chosen wooden floor that stands the test of time.