Hardwood in the Kitchen: A Good Idea?

farmhouse-small-kitchen-wood-flooring

Are you contemplating hardwood flooring in your house? Are you wondering if you should include the kitchen in that plan? There are many reasons why hardwood flooring can be great for kitchens, so choose this option confidently. Why not have a classy kitchen to match the rest of your house?

Many homeowners are apprehensive when it comes to installing hardwood in their kitchens. Perhaps they think this high-traffic area could get ruined by kids and pets, or even by entertaining a lot. This can certainly happen, but there are ways to avoid it, such as through the strategic placement of decorative rugs and runners. Here are some tips for keeping your kitchen hardwood looking new throughout the years.

Clean Up Messes

Be sure to clean up spills and other messes as soon as they happen to avoid staining and buildup. Mop up that spilled milk and wipe the crumbs leftover from dinner. Also, pick up ice cubes from the fridge ice maker if they hit the floor rather than kick them under the fridge. They can melt and then warp your hardwood.

Place Mats Throughout

Mats serve three purposes: they look good, they protect your feet from cold, hard flooring, and they protect your floors from drops. You will likely have accidents in your kitchen frequently, such as dropped plates, dog bowls and kids’ sippy cups. Mats can dampen the fall of these items so they don’t dent the floor. Place one at the sink, at the fridge, and around seating areas.

Go With Hardwood vs. Soft Wood

It’s best to choose a hardwood in the kitchen rather than a soft wood. Pine, a soft wood, isn’t the best choice for an active family because it can dent easily. Go with a wood that has a higher ranking on the Janka Scale, such as white oak. Its higher hardness rating makes it a great match for busy kitchens.

Check For Leaks

Check your appliances frequently for leaks, such as your refrigerator and dish washer. If you don’t spot the leaks quickly enough, your floors can be damaged by water. Signs of damage to look out for include spacing, crowning, buckling, or cupping, along with color changes and any planks that start to pull up from the subfloor.

In the end, the decision to install hardwood in the kitchen is a personal one. But there really is no reason not to do it, so long as you treat it well.

Contact Designer Wood Flooring

Still unsure? Want more advice? Consult with our team today 830-228-4866. Our hardwood designers and installers can guide you through the process and suggest the best type of flooring for your kitchen. We would be happy to give you a free quote and consultation to kick things off.

 

 

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