When selecting kitchen flooring, remember that the kitchen is a heavily used area. The material you select will affect how well you like working, standing and entertaining in the kitchen. Here are some common flooring mistakes to avoid.

Flooring That Does Not Blend

Since the kitchen is an integral part of the first floor design, the flooring should flow with adjacent rooms. Many people use hardwood flooring throughout the first floor, but the same guidelines apply for any material. In most cases, that means selecting the same flooring throughout the:

• Foyer
• Hallway
• Kitchen
• Breakfast room

Many people also extend the same flooring into the family room, although carpeting often is used there.

Flooring That is Not Properly Installed

The way your flooring is installed can make a big difference in the way your kitchen looks and functions. A few examples:

• Kitchen flooring should be installed under the cabinets, when possible. This ensures:
  • There are no gaps between the flooring and base of the cabinets.
  • You have flexibility in changing your cabinet layout. Otherwise, you'll have cut out areas in the floor where the cabinets once were.
• Tile flooring should be evenly spaced so any odd shaped cuts are not visible. A seasoned tile installer will know how to hide small tile cuts.

Selecting Flooring Without Regard For Lifestyle

The kitchen floor is more than just a pretty surface that ties together your kitchen design. It is also a place where children play, cats lay and dogs scurry about. Don't make the mistake of selecting flooring based solely on the way it looks. Flooring should also be durable enough to withstand your lifestyle. Consider:

• Who will use the space?
  • If small children will play on the floor, look for a material that can withstand toys falling or being dragged across it. Vinyl flooring is one option.
  • If the kitchen will be used solely for entertaining, then splurge on a fine Italian stone or an exotic hardwood.
• Buying flooring that is not porous, so food and juice spills do not linger. Avoid limestone or marble floors, as spills can penetrate the stone.
• Adding extra coats of stain or sealer on hardwood flooring to protect against scratches.

Skimping on the Flooring

The type of flooring you choose should be on par with the quality of cabinets, countertop and other kitchen products. Don't make the mistake of spending all your money on other items, then skimping on the quality of the flooring. The kitchen results will be very visible -- an ill-fitting kitchen design.

About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.