Kitchens are extremely busy areas in homes; therefore, one needs to be pragmatic when selecting materials for this space. Since kitchen floors are normally exposed to spills, does a wood floor make sense in the long-term?

However, kitchens are not ‘wet areas’ unlike bathrooms that are constantly exposed to excess moisture. Therefore, a wood floor is a good idea for kitchens across homes, offices, cafes and restaurants.

Here are a few reasons why a wood floor will work for a kitchen.

Timber floors can handle spills and leaks

A kitchen floor may be exposed to leaks from the sink, refrigerator or dishwasher. Since there’s no moisture exposure on a regular basis, a wood floor is a practical choice for kitchens. The occasional spill or leak can be quickly cleaned up before the floor is affected, preventing warping or splitting in the floor boards.

Additionally, if the timber floor has been sealed during installation, the floor should be protected from any routine or accidental encounters with water that can happen in a kitchen. Only a serious situation such as a burst pipe can potentially damage the wood floor. 

Timber floors are softer on the feet

Regular flooring tiles can cause discomfort when one has to stand for long periods. Being softer on the feet, wood floors are especially ideal for commercial kitchens, helping keep employees comfortable and in good health.

Similarly, in home kitchens, a wood floor will be much more comfortable to stand on when preparing meals. 

Seamless home design

Timber floors in kitchens are an excellent idea in home environments, especially in open plan spaces where the wood flooring in the living or dining area can be extended into the kitchen to create a seamless design effect and make the space look expansive. This is particularly workable in small apartments.

Warm and natural aesthetic

The warm and natural aesthetic of engineered wood can be easily incorporated into diverse design concepts.

Small cafe owners, in particular, can benefit from the flexibility a wood floor affords their kitchen space. Choosing a wood floor will provide a warm environment for staff and customers alike, while ensuring a viable and durable floor for the business.

A wood floor in a home kitchen is a future-proof element – both in appearance and function. Proven to improve quality of life and wellbeing, a wood floor will turn your kitchen into the family focal point. 

Solid hardwood or engineered timber?

Solid hardwood is not the only option for timber floors. If you have concerns about hardwood floors in your kitchen space, or want a more durable product with the natural aesthetic of wood, try engineered timber flooring.

Engineered timber boards are manufactured by layering one type of wood over plywood fibres, producing a stronger, more durable board. Plywood is more resistant to water and moisture than hardwood, which means engineered timber will suit any kitchen space.

The top layer of Havwoods engineered timber flooring is genuine European Oak timber, delivering the same look of a solid timber floor with greater durability and stability due to the engineered construction.

Wood floors in a kitchen, that’s a great idea

There’s no practical reason a wood floor wouldn’t be a great idea for your kitchen. Need help choosing a timber floor? Learn more about Havwoods’ engineered timber flooring range, and how you can create a talking point in your kitchen.