Unlike some materials that are perfect for kitchens, laminate flooring walks a fine line. Detractors claim that laminate is not appropriate for kitchens because moisture—a fact in kitchens—can harm it. Advocates argue that laminate is one of the better floor coverings for kitchens because moisture can be controlled.
Vinyl flooring, including luxury vinyl tiles (also known as luxury vinyl plank) and vinyl roll, as well as porcelain or ceramic tile are generally considered to be the best flooring options for a kitchen because of their ability to stand up to moisture and humidity. Laminate flooring can be installed in the kitchen.
Where Not to Install Laminate Flooring. Many experts will tell you to avoid laminate flooring installations in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms, laundry rooms, saunas, enclosed porches, and anywhere that may require wet mopping.
In terms of practicality, vinyl is the best option. It's built to withstand a high level of wear and tear and any spills can quickly be wiped up without the worry of water damage. Waterproof laminate – If you want something a little more luxurious, waterproof laminate flooring is a great choice.
When installing laminate flooring in kitchens that have a refrigerator, many professionals lay the flooring up to the outer edges of the refrigerator alcove. The refrigerator is then rolled onto the new flooring and the laminate installed in the alcove.
Laminate may not be the best idea for the kitchen because: Laminate is susceptible to moisture damage. While laminate floors are water-resistant, they aren't completely waterproof. If moisture sits on top of laminate for an extended period, the damp can result in warping and staining.
To keep your laminate floors fresh, mop them every two months. Damp mops (a.k.a. microfiber mops) are gentle enough to use on laminate floors. If you're going to use a regular mop, just wring it out until it's almost completely dry.
Can you use a wet Swiffer on laminate floors? Yes, you can use a wet Swiffer or Swiffer WetJet on laminate floors. "The wet Swiffer is best for quickly cleaning small spaces," Forte says.
CLEANING CAN BE NATURALLY SAFE
Another great response for how to clean laminate wood floors involves a bucket, hot water, a mop, Murphy® Oil Soap or a similar natural cleaner that's safe to use on laminate.
Installation of tile will cost an average of $5.75 per square foot, and installation of laminate will cost an average of $2 per square foot. This means installed tile flooring will be approximately $5 to $13 per square foot, while installed laminate flooring will be about $2 to $8 per square foot.
The protection both waterproof and water-resistant laminate offer against moisture makes them ideal flooring choices for spaces that tend to get the most spills like bathrooms, kitchens and even laundry rooms. That, plus their durability also helps them last a long time especially with active families and pets.
Vinyl stands up the best against excess moisture and spills, and it can be less expensive than laminate. However, laminate gives a more realistic wood look to enhance the design aesthetic in your home.
Laminate flooring should not be installed under fixed cabinets. Floating cabinets such as kitchen islands can sit on top of laminate flooring. Structurally, it is not the proper way to install fixed cabinets. It's not okay to install them over a floating floor.
Yes,laminate is a" floating" floor type so it should defiantly go in after the cabinets. I see no reason to not install it in the kitchen and would continue it under the appliances as well.
While refrigerators and stoves can be removed easily to install the flooring, the same cannot be said for kitchens with a dishwasher. However, it is possible to install laminate flooring under a dishwasher without completely disconnecting it.
Cost to Install Laminate Floors: Labor Cost
The average labor cost to install laminate flooring is $1,500. Installing laminate flooring for a 1,000 sq. ft. floor costs $800 to $2,800 per square foot on average.
Depending on the quality of the flooring, laminate flooring can last between 15 to 25 years on average, or longer. Choosing the right flooring for your home is about more than just aesthetics, it's also about durability and strength.
If you are installing laminate flooring, your choice of moisture barriers should include a plastic sheet that is at least 6 millimeters or thicker, or you can choose an underlayment with the moisture barrier already attached to it. It all depends on what you need for your flooring.
Having light coloured laminates and contrastingly darker-hued tiles can augment the overall appearance of the kitchen to an entirely different level. The perfect combination should be yellow coloured sunmica with deep red coloured tiles.
Laminate flooring is tough material but it can chip, especially along exposed edges. Installation or other issues that result in gaps make the flooring vulnerable to chipping.
In high-traffic areas it can show wear and tear, and laminate can't be sanded or refinished for an updated appearance. Because of its lower price point, laminate also won't do much for your home's resale value.