Top Waterproof Kitchen Flooring Options - Quick Pros & Cons
Installing new flooring can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. But with constant foot traffic, spills, and moisture, you need a floor that can withstand the demands of this busy space. Waterproof kitchen floors that won’t warp, stain, or degrade when exposed to leaks or accidents are essential.
Read on for a quick overview of the pros and cons of vinyl plank, luxury vinyl tile, ceramic tile, sheet vinyl, and laminate flooring.
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring consists of interlocking, floating panels made entirely of vinyl. This affordable flooring option is a great choice for kitchens because it is 100% waterproof.
Pros:
- Completely waterproof surface.
- Huge variety of wood and stone looks.
- Comfortable and quiet underfoot.
- Easy DIY click-together floating installation.
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant.
- Low cost at $2-5 per square foot installed.
Cons:
- Can dent if heavy objects are dropped.
- Lacks the beauty and value of real wood floors.
Luxury Vinyl Tile
Luxury vinyl tile is a step up from standard vinyl plank flooring. It replicates the look of authentic wood or stone with more realistic textures and colors. The waterproof vinyl construction makes it ideal for kitchens.
Pros:
- 100% waterproof vinyl material.
- Very convincing wood and stone aesthetics.
- Durable, scratch and stain-resistant.
- Comfortable underfoot.
- Easy DIY or pro installation.
Cons:
- More expensive than regular vinyl plank.
- Not as beautiful as real wood or stone.
Cost for luxury vinyl tile is $3-8 per square foot installed.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
Ceramic and porcelain tiles remain a popular waterproof flooring choice. Tiles are extremely durable and come in countless styles to match your kitchen décor.
Pros:
- Impervious to water when grouted properly.
- Matches nicely with countertops and backsplashes.
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Huge variety of colors, shapes, and materials.
Cons:
- Hard and cold underfoot.
- Grout requires periodic resealing.
- Professional installation is best.
- Higher cost at $5-15 per square foot installed.
Sheet Vinyl
Sheet vinyl provides a budget-friendly waterproof flooring option. Seamless vinyl sheets create a uniform look and are easy to install yourself.
Pros:
- Completely waterproof vinyl surface.
- Affordable at $2-4 per square foot.
- DIY installation with adhesive.
- Seamless, uniform appearance.
- Soft and comfortable underfoot.
Cons:
- Prone to seam lifting over time.
- Not as durable as tile or plank flooring.
- Limited realistic wood look options.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring features a photographic layer on composite boards. It provides an affordable wood floor aesthetic but is not 100% waterproof.
Pros:
- Attractive simulated wood look.
- Inexpensive at $1-5 per square foot.
- Easy DIY floating installation.
Cons:
- Vulnerable to moisture damage.
- Prone to scratching and indentations.
- Not suitable for kitchen installations.
When it comes to waterproof kitchen flooring, vinyl plank, luxury vinyl tile, and ceramic tile are your best options. All provide complete waterproofing to handle spills, leaks, and routine cleaning. For an attractive and budget-friendly solution, vinyl plank is a wonderful choice.
Take into account your own needs and style preferences as you choose new waterproof floors. And consider affordable vinyl or inviting ceramic tile as two great kitchen flooring ideas that will hold up to the rigors of your busy cooking space.