No room in a home gets tested like the kitchen, so you need flooring that can withstand the daily spills, scrapes, foot traffic, and heat, ideally while delivering aesthetic appeal.
While many may feel enticed by eye-catching laminate kitchen flooring ideas, home remodeling expert and HGTV star Mike Holmes believes that this is one type of flooring that should be avoided at all costs.
Mike Holmes Urges Homeowners To Think Twice About This Flooring In The Kitchen
Laminate flooring is extremely impact- and scratch-resistant. However, they CAN be scratched and damaged by prolonged exposure to moisture. “Water is laminate flooring’s worst enemy,” Holmes wrote in a Make It Right blog post.
Although laminate flooring does provide a vibrant natural look many homeowners find appealing, Holmes believes it is not the right option for spaces where spills are common.
The Top 5 Things You Need To Know About Laminate Flooring
- Extreme Impact and Scratch Resistance: Laminate flooring is incredibly resistant to scratches and impacts, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas.
- Sensitive to Moisture: However, laminate flooring is highly susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to moisture.
- Hidden Dangers: The edges of laminate floorboards are raw and can soak up water, leading to warping, buckling, and cracking.
- Short Lifespan: If exposed to excessive moisture for extended periods, the fiberboard core can absorb water, affecting durability and shortening the lifespan of the flooring.
- No DIY Rescue: A laminate floor cannot be given a makeover through sanding or refinishing if it gets damaged, making it a permanent fix.
Mike Holmes’ Alternatives to Laminate for Kitchen Flooring
The kitchen flooring world is awash with many durable flooring materials that can hold up against moisture far better than laminate flooring. Here are a few of Mike Holmes’ top picks:
Concrete Flooring
Concrete is known for its longevity and robust water-resistant qualities. However, Mike Holmes recommends it only if you are building a new house.
- Pros: Durable, water-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing
- Cons: Very heavy, requires additional structural support, and can be expensive
Natural Stone Flooring
Natural stone is a durable and attractive choice but also heavy and expensive. According to Angi, stone installation costs up to $35 per square foot installed, while the cost of laminate ranges between $3 to $13 per square foot installed.
- Pros: Durable, attractive, and water-resistant
- Cons: Heavy, expensive, and difficult to install
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Flooring
Ceramic or porcelain tile is Holmes’ top pick for easy-care kitchen flooring. They are durable, attractive, easy to clean, and available in a large variety of patterns and finishes.
- Pros: Durable, water-resistant, easy to clean, and aesthetically pleasing
- Cons: Requires experience and skill to install, can be heavy and difficult to cut and lay
The Verdict: Mike Holmes’ Top Pick for Kitchen Flooring
While laminate flooring may seem like a convenient and affordable option, it may not be the best choice for high-moisture areas like kitchens. Mike Holmes recommends ceramic or porcelain tile flooring as the best option for easy-care kitchen flooring due to its durability, water-resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
When it comes to kitchen flooring, you need a material that can withstand the daily spills, scrapes, foot traffic, and heat while delivering aesthetic appeal. While laminate flooring may seem like a convenient option, it may not be the best choice for high-moisture areas like kitchens. Mike Holmes’ top picks for durable kitchen flooring include concrete, natural stone, and ceramic or porcelain tile. With the right choice, you can create a beautiful and functional kitchen that will last for years to come.
