Planning a kitchen remodel? Do things right from the start. The first step should always be research. It’s important to analyze all the options before making a decision. Also, be organized. Focus on one thing at a time. For example, what type of flooring do you prefer? Tiles sound nice but they’re a safe choice. Take a look at all the other options and make a list of pros and cons.

1. Ceramic tiles.

Underfloor heating can partially solve the inconveniences of using ceramic tiles

Ceramic tiles are a great option for any style and budget. Extremely versatile, they let you pick your favorite color, size, shape and pattern and fully customize the way your kitchen floor looks like.

The customization options are limitless. Mix and match or go for a simple look

Pros: They are very resilient to wear and tear, easy to clean and budget-friendly.

Cons: The tiles can crack as the floor settles and they are tough so any dish dropped on it will shatter. Also, they are also and slippery so you’ll need to use a rug.

2. Brick flooring.

Brick flooring can give the kitchen an industrial look but it also has a rustic feel

Although tough-looking, bricks can create a very welcoming, warm and cozy look for your kitchen. Use brick flooring is you like the rusticity of the material and the earthy tones. There are lots of options to explore when choosing the color and the pattern that the pieces are laid in.

Consider using brick on the walls as well for cohesiveness

Pros: It has a welcoming appeal and can make the kitchen feel very inviting and cozy, transforming it into a social setting.

Cons: Although the material itself is inexpensive, the installation costs should not be overlooked. The surface also needs to be sealed after installation and then periodically in order to protect it from stains. Bricks floors are never 100% level so consider adding a cushioned mat to ease the strain on your legs and back.

3. Laminate flooring

Laminate flooring comes in a variety of colors and finishes and offers great versatility

Designed to imitate the look of wood or tile, laminate flooring is composed of several layers of engineered material and is resistant to scratches and scuffs. It’s a great option for those of you who have small children or pets.

Although it may look like wood from a distance, the texture and depth are not the same

Pros: Required very little maintenance, easy to install and costs are moderate.

Cons: Can’t be refinished so it gets damaged or starts to show its age it needs to be replaced completely.

4. Reclaimed wood.

Use reclaimed wood in a farmhouse kitchen and it will fit perfectly

Reclaimed wood flooring is the perfect option for those of you who prefer an eco-friendly approach. The wood usually comes from old buildings and is recycled, refined and refinished.

Give a contemporary kitchen character with reclaimed wood flooring

Pros: Has lots of character and a story behind it, warms up the home, has a rich patina and the wood has been dried naturally and is more stable.

Cons: Often more expensive than other types of flooring, there’s distress in the boards, saw marks, nail holes and dents.

5. Solid wood.

You can’t match the warmth and unique texture of solid wood

Solid wood is a classic and the best thing about it is that it develops a patina with time so it can’t look bad either way. Depending on the shade you prefer and the ambiance you want to create in the kitchen, find the wood that’s right for you.

Very versatile and always stylish, solid wood flooring is perfect for any style

Pros: Wood never goes out of style, it can be sanded and refinished, has a unique texture and a warm and solid look, develops a patina with time and use.

Cons:It can get damaged by spills, it dents and scratches easily, needs periodic refinishing.

6. Concrete flooring.

Whether you want it for its industrial-chic look or low cost, concrete flooring if a great option

Because concrete is a durable and resilient material, it’s a perfect choice for utilitarian areas such as the kitchen. Usually there’s already a concrete floor installed beneath and existing surface in the kitchen so all you have to do is uncover it and bring it back to life.

Add warmth to the kitchen with an area rug. It also reduces the strain on your back

Pros: Very cheap to install, low maintenance, impervious to almost all stains and to water damage, it can be stained, stamped, scored or etched for a unique look.

Cons: Stays cool even during summer, requires professional installation, unforgiving on feet, needs sealing in high-traffic areas.

7. Cork flooring.

Cork flooring has an unmistakable texture and feel which gives the room a cozy look

An eco-friendly option for those who prefer a sustainable design, cork flooring also offers the kitchen a warm look. It has a unique texture and pattern and it also comes in several colors.

A variety of colors and patterns are now available so there’s room for customization

Pros: Very comfortable, resilient, flexible, absorbs shocks and sound, holds warmth, resistant to mold, mildew, rot and pests.

Cons: Needs constant maintenance, needs to be resealed regularly, can get scars, can fade over time.

8. Vinyl/ Linoleum flooring.

Because of the variety of colors and the versatility, you can create your own patters

Although the two are often confused and considered to be one and the same thing, they are actually two different things. However, they share in common the retro look and the versatility. Nowadays they come in a wide range of sophisticated designs and finishes and they can mimic stone, wood, tile, etc.

Vinyl and linoleum can imitate other materials quite wellVery comfortable underfoot, this type of flooring is a very nice option for the kitchen

Pros: Inexpensive, easy to patch if it gets damaged, comfortable, comes in a large variety of colors, durable, low-maintenance and very versatile.

Cons:It can wear and tear over time, can fade in strong sunlight, shorter life span than other materials.