There are many types of kitchen tile flooring as the imagination could hold. There is the traditional vinyl, linoleum, laminate, to exotics like pebble tiles, ceramic tile, stone, pressed clay and a host of others. Many can be installed by the do-it-yourself-er (DIY-er), but may require a fairly high skill to successfully complete.
Price being no object, there are certain pros and cons with each kitchen tile flooring applications. In the area of porcelain tile, quarry tile, pebble tile and stone the skill level of the DIY-er should be intermediate to pro. Installation will require a thin layer of glue called thinset, then after the material is placed, grouting to fill in the space between the stones.
The pros for this kind of kitchen tile flooring is there are many styles, colors and patterns to choose. This tile is durable. Glazed tile resists staining, and does not require special cleaning treatment or other maintenance. Sweeping and mopping are all that is required to bring it back to brand new looks. And it is suitable for radiant heat.
The downside to this type of kitchen tile flooring is without a texture it can be slippery which may pose a safety hazard for elderly or children in the household.
If unglazed could require occasional treatment with a solvent. Individual tiles may chip or crack over time and need to be replaced. The homeowner will need to purchase extra for such occasions to match the tile in place.
The other category of kitchen tile flooring is vinyl, linoleum, laminate, plank, and grout-able vinyl tile. All of these are manufactured to look like what they are not. Vinyl comes in standard and inlaid options. Standard uses a rotogravure process where the texture and color is printed between the clear top layer and the foam vinyl core. Inlaid vinyl is merely color and texture are a part of the core of the tile. This process makes the tile denser and more durable. Vinyl is water resistant and offers a no-wax coating. It also feel cushiony when walked or stood on. Variations on vinyl is laminate, which is made to look like wood, rock, marble, etc. grout-able vinyl tile and linoleum. All of these choices can be done by the DIY-er, but in all cases except for the peel and place vinyl, require a certain level of skill to apply.
The pros for using this type of kitchen tile flooring is the endless options for color, patterns and simulations. There is no worry about water discoloration. Little to no maintenance other than sweeping and mopping. Resists scuffs and stains from pets and kids. The downside to this kind of kitchen tile flooring is that it requires spills be cleaned up immediately to avoid staining. The surface is stain resistant, not stain proof. If installation is not done properly with as few seams as possible, it can peel up. Surfaces are sensitive to being dented by abuse or constant use of tapered objects on the surface of the tile.
The choice of kitchen tile flooring is almost endless. Whether new construction or a remodeling project the budget and skill level of the DIY-er will determine which of the many options will be chosen.
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