The Advantages of Laminate Wood Flooring in Kitchens | eHow

Laminate flooring, when compared with hardwood, tile and marble, is less expensive per square yard. It also is easier to maintain. It does not require expensive, periodic refinishing like hardwood often does. Also, many laminate floors come with lifetime warranties, which helps save money if it ever needs to be replaced.

Laminate floors often are coated with scratch- and stain-resistant surfaces, helping to protect it from scrapes and spills. Resins and other polymers often are used in the laminate flooring's protective upper layer, helping to protect it from virtually any kind of damage. These factors are especially important in kitchens, where food spills occur and heavy or sharp metal objects, such as pots and knives, are used.

One other advantage of laminate flooring is its ease of installation. Most laminate floor planks snap together and require little to no additional glues or substances. Also, laminate can be installed on top of existing non-carpeted floors, eliminating the need to tear up flooring. This could be helpful if the earlier floor covering is to be uncovered and used again in the future.

Most spills and stains on laminate flooring can be wiped up easily and often do not require special treatment to remove. Also, most commercial cleaners can be used on laminate wood flooring, and hardwood floors can be sensitive to some water-based cleansers. Tile grout can attract dirt, dust and mildew and require special cleaning, but these are not concerns with laminate floors.