Laminate in the kitchen: is it worth covering the floors in the kitchen with laminate, how waterproof is it? Waterproof laminate, what's the difference

Carrying out the repair of the floor in the kitchen, the question arises of which flooring to choose. Among the many materials, laminate is a fairly popular coating with a lot of advantages. But, is it possible to put laminate in the kitchen? If you listen to the opinion of experts, then we can conclude that the laminate for the kitchen is quite suitable. Important is correct selection this material. To understand which laminate to choose for the kitchen, you need to consider its pros, cons, properties and types.

Laminate has many advantages that allow you to use it for floors in the kitchen. Among them are the main advantages:

• Simple and fast installation;
• wear resistance;
• Ease of care;
• Resistant to temperature extremes and impact sun rays;
• Large selection of colors and designs;
• Beautiful appearance;

In addition, you can choose a coating that imitates various natural materials- wood, stone It is very difficult to distinguish it from parquet. And some laminate options can be installed on.

Some colors of laminate imitating wood flooring

You also need to consider the disadvantages of this material:

• Some types of laminated panels swell when exposed to water;
• Laminate without backing may emit ringing sound when walking and moving objects on the floor;
• Poor quality materials can be harmful to health.

Having considered the shortcomings of the coating, we can conclude: in order to avoid the manifestation of the minuses of the laminate, it is necessary to select it correctly and pay attention to the quality when buying.

The difference between moisture resistant and waterproof laminate

In the kitchen, the floor can often be exposed to moisture. It can be both spilled liquids and drops from washing dishes. In addition, maintenance and washing of the floor in the kitchen is carried out very often. Therefore, it is best in this case to choose a laminate that is minimally exposed to moisture. is of two types:

1. moisture resistant;
2. Waterproof.

The first option is treated with protective compounds, and has an additional coating. The seams between the panels during laying must be processed waterproof glue. Such a laminate easily withstands splashes and short-term interaction with large quantity water. The disadvantage of the coating is the inability to replace one panel if damaged. In such cases, complete dismantling of the coating is necessary.

The structure of the waterproof coating

Waterproof laminate able to withstand exposure to water for a long time. Modern technology, used for the production of the coating, allows you to save all specifications coating even when it is in water for more than 24 hours, as guaranteed by the manufacturers. In any case, it is better not to allow prolonged contact with water. The advantage of the coating is the absence of the need for seam processing. The disadvantage is the loss of water resistance properties when the protective layer is damaged.

Laminate classes suitable for the kitchen

Laminate is suitable for laying in the kitchen: 31, 32, 33. Each of them has distinctive characteristics Therefore, it is necessary to choose the coating that best meets the requirements for operation.

31 class:

• Has a service life of not more than 12 years;
• Suitable for laying in residential and commercial premises with medium traffic.

• Service life - 12-15 years;
• Scratch resistant;
• Can be laid in rooms with above-average traffic;
• It has a cost higher than class 31, but justifies this with its quality.

Laminate class table

• Recommended for use in high traffic areas.
• The service life is about 20 years;
• Does not crack or split during operation;
• With prolonged contact with water, it does not lose its properties and does not swell.

Summing up, we can say that the laminate for the kitchen must meet the following characteristics:

1. be moisture resistant;
2. Comply with a high class of strength;
3. Have a backing so as not to make unpleasant sounds.

In addition, it must be taken into account that the coating must be good quality. This will extend its service life and ensure that all its characteristics are preserved. It is best to purchase a coating marked E-1. This means that technologies were used in the production to reduce the amount of formaldehyde in the laminate, which means that the coating is safer for humans.

An important role in the choice is played by the type of connection. The best option there will be a laminate with a tight locking connection. Since, in the kitchen, heavy and breakable objects can fall on the floor, the probability of damage to the panels is very high. The lock type of connection will allow you to easily replace the panel with a new one, and not completely dismantle the coating.

If we consider the appearance of the laminate, then for the kitchen the best choice will be a coating imitating tiles. This option is most often treated with antistatic agents and does not attract dust. Larger size tiles provides the least number of seams and is more cost effective. Moreover, laying such a coating is easier and faster.

It should be borne in mind when choosing that the coating should not be slippery, but also not have a relief structure, since it is quite difficult to wash it.

Laying laminate

When laying laminate flooring, it is necessary to take into account some features and recommendations of specialists. For example:

1. You need to buy panels with a margin of about 10%. This is necessary to avoid shortages of material due to fitting. Especially if the room has a complex configuration;
2. Carefully read the instructions that come with the cover. Manufacturers always indicate the features of laying this type of laminate;
3. It is best to lay the laminate in the kitchen in the direction of the light falling from the window. This will mask the joints between the panels as much as possible;
4. The flooring of the covering along the diagonal of the room is the most difficult, therefore, more simple option there will be laying along the window opening or across the room;
5. Before carrying out work, it is necessary to carefully prepare the base of the floor, namely, to make it as even as possible and supplement it with high-quality waterproofing;
6. In a small kitchen, it is best to lay panels of the same color. Laminate combination different colors visually reduces the area of ​​​​the room.

In the kitchen, laminate flooring must be handled quite carefully, but with care. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• It is recommended to wipe the laminate with a dry or slightly damp soft cloth;
• Maintenance is best done with specialized funds, the composition of which will not harm the coating;
• In close proximity to the sink, it is best to spread a rubberized mat that will reduce the amount of moisture that gets on the laminate;
• To protect the coating from scratches and chips, furniture legs and household appliances(fridge, Dishwasher etc.) you can install felt pads;
• You can use various special means effectively removing stubborn dirt and masking scratches and damage.

Outcome

In conclusion, we can say that before choosing a laminate for the kitchen, it is very important to study all the recommendations and advice of experts, as well as manufacturers. This will help make right choice and purchase a coating that will last for quite a long time, and at the same time retain all its characteristics and good appearance.

It is from the hallway that the acquaintance of guests with your home begins. This is how the first impression about the apartment and, as a result, about its owner is formed.

In the kitchen, as a rule, we spend a lot of time, preparing dinner or receiving guests. Let's look at how to most effectively create an atmosphere of comfort in these rooms and how the right choice of laminate can affect this.

We will also analyze what characteristics of the product you should pay attention to when choosing.

Is laminate suitable for the kitchen?

If you are doing repairs in the kitchen, then sooner or later you will think about how to decorate the floor. Among all the options for this design, the laminate has the most significant advantages. But the question quite reasonably arises: is this material suitable for the kitchen?

According to renovation professionals, laminate is perfect for the kitchen. In this matter, it is important to choose the right laminate.

To do this, you should get acquainted with its advantages, disadvantages and other various characteristics.

Among the advantages of laminate, which just make it possible to use it in the kitchen, we highlight the following:

• Putting it on is easy. It won't take long.
• Laminate in the kitchen is able to last for a long time, it is unpretentious in maintenance, immune to temperature changes and direct sunlight.
• Another indisputable advantage is the ability to choose desired option, as there are many offers for every taste and color. In addition, laminate flooring will look great in the kitchen. You can choose a product stylized as wood or stone.
• Laminate is practically indistinguishable from parquet. In addition, it is possible to install it on the so-called warm floors.

Moisture is your main enemy!

Now let's talk about the disadvantages of laminate flooring. Sometimes there is a material that is afraid of moisture. If you have not placed a substrate under the laminate floor, then do not be surprised that when walking the floor will creak, making audible sounds, and if you come across a low-quality laminate, then this is even more serious, as it can affect your health.

It is worthwhile to carefully and competently approach the choice of material, so that later you do not have to regret it.

Which coating to choose: moisture resistant or waterproof?

In the kitchen, water can get on the laminate, and in this part of the apartment you need to constantly wash the floors. Therefore, you need to choose a material that is protected from moisture, and the options that are suitable for you are a moisture-resistant and water-resistant laminate coating.

Moisture resistant laminate has a treatment with protective composition, as well as another layer. Seams during installation must be well treated with moisture-resistant adhesive. This material will cope with small splashes.

The disadvantage of such a material is that it is not possible to replace one part of it. If one part fails, the entire floor will have to be replaced.

Waterproof laminate flooring is more resistant to water intrusion. Nothing will happen to such a laminate if it is in water for a day. Manufacturers assure this, but it’s still better to play it safe and try to avoid prolonged interaction with water.

Another advantage of such a floor: you can not process the butt joints, and its minus is that if the protective layer is damaged, the properties that can withstand moisture are lost.

Classes of laminates for the kitchen

Laminate for the kitchen is divided into several types. Each of them is equipped with different ability to resist moisture and durability. The strength class of the product starts with the number 2. For example: 21, 22 and so on. The fewer layers in the boards, the less time they will last.

Service life, judging by the reviews - from five to seven years. And this is the case if you use them without additional load. Laminate, the so-called commercial type, begins with the number 3. Such laminates are more durable. These products are not afraid of water, however, the best versions for the kitchen are material with a class above 31.

Classes 32 and 33 consist of a considerable number of different layers. Them distinctive features – excellent strength and water resistance. They are perfectly adapted for working premises, as well as swimming pools. In a city apartment, such a floor will last more than 25 years.

Class 34, according to experts, can literally sit on your floor forever. Such a floor can be cleaned by a completely different means - nothing will happen to it. He is protected from various kinds damage. It is possible, using the 34th class, to lay "warm floors" under its base.

When choosing a laminate for the kitchen, in addition to all the features listed above, consider how harmoniously it will look in the context of your interior.

Laminate and interior

AT spacious kitchen the floor should be chic and beautiful. A laminate stylized as a tile will look very interesting. It will give the effect of completeness of the urban interior and will look very chic.

According to psychologists, the color in the interior has a huge impact on the formation of a person's mood. Therefore, take the choice of color of the coating as seriously as possible. Let the feeling of coziness create in your kitchen or dining room a laminate of light wood tones.

If your main goal is to lose weight, then do not use in the interior of the kitchen, including in the laminate, bright colors. Since such tones cause increased appetite and stimulate the feeling of hunger.

If your kitchen is small in size, then avoid the option of designing a laminate for tiles. Visually, such a laminate in the kitchen will focus on small size space, which you don't really need.

Summarizing, we note: when choosing a laminate for the kitchen, consider the whole set of nuances. This is the quality of the material, its characteristics, appearance and the ability to harmoniously fit into the interior space of the room.

Choice for the hallway

When choosing a laminate for a hallway, it is worth considering the characteristics of the product, which will determine the suitability of one or another laminate for a particular type of room.

Let's try to plunge a little into the world of varieties of laminates. There is a smooth laminate, as well as glossy. On the second, traces of touch will be very noticeable. There are no visible marks on matte and it is not as slippery as glossy. Texture, in turn, looks very realistic.

Ideal Strength- recipe for success.

For a hallway, where there will be quite high loads, laminates of the 32nd and 33rd classes will be a good option in terms of strength.

When choosing a laminate in the hallway, it is also worth considering the fact that the floor in this part of the apartment is especially often wiped with a damp cloth. Also in the autumn or spring seasons, a large amount of water can accumulate in the hallway from shoes. When choosing a laminate, keep in mind that it is adapted to moisture, that is, moisture-resistant and water-resistant products will be very suitable.

The thickness of the laminate for the hallway can be around 8 mm. There may be thinner samples, while not inferior in quality to thicker counterparts.

At self-laying laminate should remember:

If you decide to lay the laminate yourself, then consider some of the nuances. Buy more panels than you originally planned.

The simplest options for placing panels are across the room or along the window. Before starting work, try to properly level the floor, consider waterproofing. If the room is small, then you should not choose a laminate of several shades - this will visually make the room even cramped.

Wipe the laminate with a soft cloth, preferably dry or not too wet. It is better to use specialized substances so as not to damage the integrity of the coating. Place a rubber mat in the area closest to the sink to keep moisture out.

If you want to protect the floor from mechanical damage, then furniture racks would be better, household appliances and other household items to paste over with soft material. This will protect the floor surface. In the event that minor damage could not be avoided, various substances can be used, during the application of which scratches will not be very noticeable.

When choosing a laminate, remember that products made in the United States of America and European countries will cost more than their domestic counterparts. You will also have to pay a large amount for the purchase of a laminate from famous brand. However, in this case, the company is a guarantor of the quality of the product.

When choosing a laminate in the hallway and in the kitchen, as we have already said, consider the design of the room. It is better to choose a material resistant to water and moisture.

Without exaggeration, the kitchen can be called the soul of any home. Here always reigns special atmosphere, smells like delicious food and the family gathers for lunch or dinner. But here water and oil spill, hard-to-wash stains appear, even dishes can break, and almost all these troubles are taken over by the floor. It should be durable, easy to clean and, of course, beautiful. Relatively recently, the family of floor coverings for the kitchen was replenished with laminate. Not sure if it's practical? If you figure out which laminate to choose for the kitchen, you will fall in love with this material, and the soul of your home - the kitchen will delight you with beauty and freshness for a long time.

The diversity of laminate flooring strikes the imagination of even the most sophisticated aesthetes. It can imitate any type of wood, natural stone, ceramics and many other materials. The surface of the laminate can be smooth, or it can repeat the texture of wood, stone and even fabric, it can dazzlingly shine or be matte. About what natural material for the floor in the kitchen you have not dreamed of, the laminate will fulfill your every desire, but the cost of the material will be much lower compared to the price of the original.

Laminate can imitate any type of wood, natural stone, ceramics and many other materials.

Laminate is very easy to install and can even be laid over old flooring if it doesn't need to be leveled. You won't get bogged down with repairs for days or weeks, as laying laminate flooring takes only a few hours.

Finally, some types of laminated floor covering perfectly combined with any design of the "warm floor". If this option is also included in your plans, when buying a laminate, check if there is a corresponding marking.

Laminate for the kitchen: choice

What properties of the material should be paid attention to when considering laminate for the kitchen in the store - how to choose? Laminate flooring for the kitchen must be durable, wear-resistant and moisture resistant.

wear resistance

In terms of wear resistance, all laminate flooring is divided into the following classes:

• 21, 22, 23 - for residential premises;
• 31, 32, 33 - for rooms with high traffic.

If the budget for repairs is very limited, you can lay a laminate of 23 wear resistance class in the kitchen, but such a floor will last only 5-7 years. However, for fans of frequent interior changes, this option is quite acceptable.

Laminate floor coverings of 31 and 32 wear resistance classes are designed for the floor of offices, shops, cafes and restaurants, and therefore in kitchens residential apartments and at home, such a floor will withstand any mechanical stress and shock, scratches will not appear on it, and it will last for many years.

moisture resistance

The indicator of moisture resistance of the kitchen laminate is equivalent in importance to the indicator of wear resistance: after all, in terms of the amount of spilled water and fumes, this room is second only to the bathroom. Relatively recently, the Aqua label appeared on the packaging of the latest generation of laminate, and by the nature of the relationship with water, laminate flooring can be:

• moisture resistant;
• waterproof.

Especially durable boards are used as the basis of the moisture-resistant laminate, and the locks are coated with a water-repellent wax impregnation, which is confirmed by the Aqua marking. With external similarities between moisture-resistant and waterproof laminate, there are several differences.

Characteristics of moisture resistant laminate

The basis of a moisture-resistant laminate is a durable MDF board with a fibrous structure of increased density. Outer polymer layer provides excellent water resistance to the surface of the material, but not to the joints between the panels. Moisture that gets inside the panel through the joints leads to swelling of its wood structure and, as a result, to deformation of the outer layer. Moreover, even with complete drying, the original appearance of the laminate floor is no longer restored. Of course, moisture-resistant laminate can be laid on the kitchen floor and can retain an attractive appearance for a long time with careful care. To do this, it is necessary to regularly treat the seams-joints with special mastic and very quickly clean up spilled water.

Waterproof laminate, what's the difference

Unlike its moisture-resistant counterpart, waterproof laminate is endowed with the best water-repellent characteristics among the entire family of laminate flooring. This superiority is ensured by the internal structure, the basis of which is not a wooden, but a plastic plate. It is not able to absorb moisture, which means it does not swell and its structure does not deform even with prolonged contact with water. The surface of the plastic base of the waterproof laminate is covered with a very strong moisture-resistant adhesive, on which a decorative layer is glued, and then a water-repellent polymer increased strength. The result is a laminate flooring that is resistant to moisture and mechanical stress.

Waterproof laminate has the best water repellency of laminate flooring

Are you still thinking about choosing a laminate for the kitchen: which one is better? Of course, waterproof, which will withstand not only frequent washing of the floor, but even a small flood, if the neighbors from above suddenly flood or leak water pipe.

Pros of laminate flooring in the kitchen

In favor of the laminate as a floor covering for the kitchen, its advantages speak:

• respectable appearance;
• abrasion resistance;
• ease and speed of installation;
• hygiene;
• combination with any design of the "warm floor" system;
• democratic price.

Fans of natural finishing materials and eco-design on a limited budget choose laminate flooring for kitchen interior design: it looks so much like natural wood or a stone, and its affordable price allows you to realize any design ideas without limiting yourself in any way.

Diverse design laminate allows you to embody any design ideas in the kitchen

Practical owners of the house above all appreciate the ease of installation in this material. After all, even a non-professional can easily and quickly cope with this work, following the instructions for masonry from the manufacturer.

Housewives really like the ease of care of the laminate. It does not react to temperature changes, it is easy to wash, it does not leave scratches and, finally, the most difficult stains are easily removed from it, ranging from fruits and fats to fuel oil and nail polish.

Laminate is much warmer than ceramic tiles, it is pleasant and safe to walk barefoot on it, and this is so important if there are small children in the family. In addition, the laminate is suitable as a finishing floor covering for the "warm floor" system. For a floor made of natural wood, this luxury is not available. Finally, no matter what natural material imitates a laminate floor, it always looks respectable.

Disadvantages of laminate for the kitchen

With many undeniable advantages of the laminate, when choosing this material for the floor in the kitchen, one should also take into account its disadvantages, which can be minimized under certain circumstances:

• moisture sensitivity;
• low sound insulation;
• the content of formaldehyde resins.

The most vulnerable point and the main disadvantage of all types of laminate, except for waterproof, is the increased sensitivity of its seams to prolonged exposure to moisture. And if, during normal operation, careful care will save you from possible troubles, then in the case of emergencies laminate flooring cannot be repaired. It will have to be completely replaced.

The low sound insulation of the laminate is manifested in the too sonorous sound of footsteps. If it really interferes with the inhabitants of the house, you can use slippers with soft soles.

Laminate flooring other than waterproof like many others Decoration Materials on a wood fiber basis, may contain formaldehyde resins that are unsafe for human health. When buying a laminate, you must carefully study the markings on the package. If the E-1 icon is present there, then the formaldehyde content in the material is minimal and nothing threatens your health - feel free to buy.

Specific styling features

If desired, even a non-professional can lay the laminate floor in the kitchen on their own. It is recommended to buy material with a small margin, about 5-10% more area kitchens. This condition is especially important if your kitchen has complex shape. Lay the panels in strict accordance with the detailed step by step instructions manufacturer.

There are two ways to install laminate flooring:

• adhesive;
• castle.

At adhesive method laying laminate panels are glued to the base and glued together. This connection is more hermetic, but is used less and less.

The locking installation system is more modern and is offered by most of the leading flooring manufacturers. This method is very simple to perform, and its advantage is the possibility of dismantling. That is, if necessary, at any time, such a laminated floor can be disassembled and re-laid in any other room.

Laminate flooring can be laid on any substrate, including hardwood floors, linoleum, and short pile carpet.

Laminate flooring can be installed on any substrate, including hardwood floors, linoleum, and short pile carpet. Of course, provided good flat surface and high-quality waterproofing of the base.

Laminate panels can be laid along or across the window opening or diagonally. Laying diagonally is the most difficult to perform, and if you are not confident in your own skills, it is better to entrust this work to an experienced specialist.

important secret laying laminate: the joints of panels laid in the direction of the light are almost invisible. Combining two or more species laying, you can visually expand the space of the kitchen, change its geometry if necessary and designate functional areas.

in different functional areas kitchens can be combined ceramic tiles and laminate or laminate

Except different ways styling, in different zones kitchens can combine ceramic tiles and laminate or tile-like laminate in the work area and parquet-like laminate in the dining area. In a too small kitchen, the arrangement of combined floors is not recommended - they visually reduce the room.

Laminate floors are anti-static and almost do not attract dust, and therefore daily kitchen cleaning can only consist of wiping the floor with a well-wrung cloth, and only in case of severe contamination, you can occasionally wash it with plenty of water and then wipe it dry.

Daily housekeeping laminate flooring in the kitchen can be reduced to wiping it with a well-wrung rag

To seal and maintain the joints between laminate panels, they should be treated regularly with proprietary wax-based compounds developed by manufacturers. The same compositions can also mask scratches and remove complex spots maintaining the presentable appearance of the laminate floor.

Scratches on the floor can be generally avoided by sticking on the legs of the refrigerator, kitchen furniture and other heavy items in the kitchen felt lining.

If you do not save too much and buy a high-quality waterproof laminate of the appropriate wear resistance class, keeping the floor clean and fresh will not cause you much trouble and it will delight you with its beauty for a long time.

The floor covering in the kitchen must be wear-resistant, impact-resistant and waterproof. Laminate flooring in the kitchen perfectly meets these requirements.

How to choose a laminate in the kitchen - the main criteria

The higher the class of laminate, the greater its strength - choose the most high class in order for the floor to serve you longer, namely: a thirty-third class laminate. There is a laminate with the AQUA marking - it is he who is the most moisture resistant. An additional advantage in the fight against moisture will give you wax impregnation of laminate locks. Under these conditions, it will retain its properties for up to 10 years.

Few people know that there is a significant difference between moisture resistant and waterproof laminate. The kitchen needs waterproof laminate flooring so that in the event of a water leak, the entire flooring does not have to be changed. In the industrial processing of wood, formaldehyde is used - a substance that is very harmful to human health. To minimize this harm, you need to buy a laminate with a factory marking E-1.

Laminate looks very beautiful, but it is still afraid of water. To make the laminate in the kitchen moisture resistant, it is covered protective film, and the joints are treated with mastic. This laminate has plastic base, That is additional protection from moisture.

If ceramic tiles are repulsive with their price or you don’t like cold floors, you can purchase a laminate for tiles in the kitchen. Laminate decorated to look like tiles, except aesthetically beautiful view has most of the properties of ceramic tiles. In addition, there are models with marble, stone, granite colors.

Which laminate to choose for the kitchen?

White laminate in the kitchen visual magnification space, stylish design, chic rich view of the room. Dust is less noticeable on a white background, but dirt, on the contrary, immediately catches the eye. Light laminate in the kitchen it seems not practical, but its modern types allow you to eliminate any pollution, including with the help of household chemicals without damaging the coating.

An important point when choosing white laminate is the choice of its shade. The hue may vary depending on the type of lighting: artificial or natural. Creamy beige shades can appear in the most unexpected way when artificial lighting kitchens. Therefore, when choosing a laminate, consider the overall color scheme and if it is cold, then choose the appropriate shade for the floor covering.

Dark laminate in the kitchen goes well with furniture light shades. Dark laminate floor unites beautifully various elements design of the kitchen, is a contrasting element, however, it is more suitable for rooms with windows facing north.

It is very difficult to care for, just like dark furniture where dust collects every day. After washing, there are always stains that must be rubbed with a dry cloth.

If you chose dark laminate, then carefully consider the selection of the color of other items so that interior elements of different purposes do not merge. Interior doors get a couple of tones darker, kitchen set- lighter. With dark shades of the floor, good kitchen lighting is needed to remove the effect of "untidiness" and a dull, depressed atmosphere.

Vinyl laminate in the kitchen is an alternative to conventional laminate, as well as tile. Vinyl laminate is available with exotic wood look, natural

Very often when repair work you have to choose what better tile or laminate? When choosing a material for the kitchen floor, you need to decide what requirements the coating must meet. Each of the presented floor coverings has its pros and cons.

Choosing between tile or laminate can sometimes be difficult

Floor tiles

Floor tiles durable, unpretentious in care, has a rich range of colors, so it can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, hallway, living room, on the balcony. She is perfect for office space, shops and production areas. The tile reliably protects the surface from moisture, it is resistant to aggressive chemicals, to frequent temperature changes and evaporation. For those who care about environmental safety, you should choose ceramic tiles. This is a natural ecological product that does not accumulate any harmful substances. In the production of ceramic tiles, only natural safe natural materials are used.

The "warm floor" system will solve the problem of "coldness" of the tile and reassure those who consider this the main disadvantage of ceramic tiles.

Floor tiles are weakly conductive electricity, inert and fire resistant. If there is a fire in the room, ceramic coating will not allow the fire to spread throughout the room. Tiles will not ignite, are practically not subject to destruction due to exposure high temperature. Its characteristics resemble natural stone, therefore ideal for rooms with high humidity, frequent drops temperature conditions.

Well-chosen ceramic tiles will emphasize the dignity of the kitchen interior

The disadvantage of ceramic tiles is that it cold material. Of course, underfloor heating can solve this problem, but it is not always possible to turn on the heating just to heat the floor. Therefore, it is not recommended to lay tiles in the bedroom or children's room. The second disadvantage is the price. The cost of tiles depends on the manufacturer, size and texture. In addition, laying ceramic tiles will cost more than laying laminate. But you need to remember that the tile is durable material, so you can not save too much on such coverage.

Features of PVC tiles

PVC tile is an analogue of linoleum. PVC tiles can be laid in the hallway or in the kitchen. It is easily transported, stronger than its roll counterpart, has good sound insulation, does not swell, does not slip, and has a wide range of colors. Using several options for PVC tiles, you can create an original pattern. This is a fairly cheap option for flooring. Its disadvantage is that it is made of artificial material, but everyone decides for himself which material to use for styling.

PVC tiles also has many advantages and in some cases will be more good choice for kitchen

Pros and cons of laminate

Laminate is one of the most popular floor coverings. Its main advantages are its attractive appearance, affordable price, ease of installation and durability. The basis of the laminate board is fiberboard - fiberboard. It provides rigidity and strength of the material. A paper layer is firmly glued on top of it, imitating the texture of stacked boards or parquet from various tree species (maple, beech, cherry). In addition to wood, there are types of laminate in which the texture of stone (granite, marble) is imitated, as well as tiled or carpet. The quality of the printing layer is so high that it is sometimes difficult to distinguish natural wood from a laminated board.

Laminate on the floor in the kitchen performs a decorative and practical function

A special protective layer of melamine or acrylate resin is applied on top of the printed image on the laminate. in quality brands surface layer The laminate board contains corundum, which is known for its hardness. Due to this, the laminate is immune to chemicals, stains, exposure to direct sunlight, mechanical damage.

Laminate is unpretentious in care. When cleaning the room, it is enough to wipe the floor from dust with a damp cloth. If a heavy bulky object falls on the laminate, it will not leave dents or scratches. The laminate board, unlike some other materials, is not afraid of traces of furniture, ladies' shoe studs, a fallen cigarette butt and heaters. Laminate - warm material which is perfect for a child's room.

Weak point of any laminate, its edges are considered. If violations were made during the production of the laminate technological requirements, the edges may start to crumble, which will lead to rapid wear of the floor covering. In order to protect yourself from acquiring a laminate with marriage, choose only quality material well-known firms. It is best to pay attention to German, Norwegian or Austrian manufacturers. No matter how tightly the laminate boards fit to each other, it is still necessary to create moisture protection for the edges by treating them with a waterproof coating.

What is better to choose for the kitchen - tiles or laminate

You need to choose based on your needs and budget. Laminate is a cheaper option but less durable than ceramic tiles. Although laminate flooring is water resistant, the coating can be damaged by flooding, i.e. if water long time"stands" on the floor. Ceramic tiles are not afraid of water, there will be no trace of the flood on its surface. That is why tiles are ideal for laying in the kitchen.

Light laminate on kitchen floor creates a pleasant atmosphere home comfort

What is suitable for the kitchen is a moot point. As mentioned above, ceramic tiles are cold materials. Agree, walking on the cold floor with bare feet is unpleasant. If in winter you can turn on heated floors, then in summer or spring you can’t do this. But, at the same time, tiles in the kitchen have a number of advantages: temperature changes are not terrible, high humidity, hot and possibly greasy splatter that may be on the floor during cooking. Floor tiles are easy to clean, floors can be washed using chemicals. Ceramic tiles go well with tiles on kitchen apron and fits perfectly into the interior of the kitchen or dining room.

Tiles are perfect for working area kitchen - it easily tolerates different mechanical influences and cleansed of dirt

If your kitchen is combined with a dining or living room, you can safely lay ceramic tiles on the floor. From frequent rearrangements of furniture and the constant walking of your household, the tile will not suffer. And to protect your feet from the cold, the living area can be decorated with a beautiful carpet or rug. And no one canceled house slippers. When choosing a tile, make sure that it is not too slippery. In addition, be sure to consult with experts about the parameters of the hardness level. Tiles can be different in terms of wear resistance and resistance to mechanical and chemical influences.

And if you combine two types of coverage? This option will be appreciated by lovers of compromises and unusual design solutions

The advantages of laminate for the kitchen are that it is laid much faster than tile, laying work is much "cleaner". The material is beautiful and durable. Therefore, what is best for your kitchen, tile or laminate, decide based on your financial capabilities, kitchen design and personal preferences. You can also combine laminate with tiles on the floor in the kitchen. In the dining area and the relaxation area there is a laminate, and tiles are perfect for the work area.