Can I put parquet flooring in a kitchen?
Various different flooring products are suitable for installation in kitchens. One flooring style that has been on-trend not only in recent years, but for hundreds of years, is parquet flooring. Known for its elegant and timeless appearance, parquet flooring has been used in homes for centuries. However, the question arises: Can you put parquet flooring in a kitchen? A high-traffic area that is prone to spills, stains, and heavy foot traffic.
What is parquet flooring?
Parquet flooring refers to specific patterns created by installing the planks in a certain way, rather than a specific type of material (like hardwood flooring or vinyl flooring). Parquet flooring can come in real wood, laminate, or LVT click. These individual pieces are skilfully placed together to create intricate designs, giving parquet flooring its distinct and luxurious look. While there are many styles to parquet floors, the two most common in the market today are herringbone and chevron, with herringbone flooring being the most popular. Other patterns include diamond, basket weave, or higher end bespoke designs.
It is important to note that parquet flooring is purely a stylistic choice. It is not installed for any practical reason—but only to make your room look great. Having said that, the choice of material of which your patterned flooring will be is something that should be considered more carefully. For more information on which materials are suitable for kitchens, click here.
The pros of using parquet flooring in a kitchen
Visual Appeal: Parquet flooring adds a look of timeless beauty and sophistication, including the kitchen. Patterns such as herringbone or chevron can actually give the illusion of a larger space once installed, making them ideal for medium-sized rooms and above.
Timelessness: Parquet flooring has stood the test of time, both in terms of durability and design. It has been the flooring choice of kings and aristocrats, used for centuries in palaces, stately homes, and luxury residences—making it a flooring option that exudes timeless charm and elegance.
The cons of using parquet flooring in a kitchen
Susceptibility to Moisture: Kitchens are prone to spills and moisture, putting your flooring at risk of damage. Assuming your parquet flooring is LVT click, this won’t be a problem. But if you opt for a real wood or laminate parquet, then immediate clean-up of spills is crucial to maintaining the flooring's longevity.
Scratches and Dents: Despite its durability, parquet flooring is not impervious to scratches and dents. Sharp or heavy objects dropped on the floor can leave marks that may require refinishing to repair. Only real wood flooring can be sanded and refinished. Scratches on laminate or vinyl will be harder to conceal.
Cost: Parquet flooring comes with a luxury price tag. This is due to the nature of the boards and how they are cut. Not only this, the cost of installation is also higher as the process of laying parquet flooring is more delicate, time consuming, and creates more wastage. It takes a skilled flooring installer to lay parquet flooring to a good quality, so naturally the price of the service will reflect that.
Tips for using parquet flooring in a kitchen
Use rugs or mats: Rugs and mats offer excellent protection for floors without compromising the overall look of the room. Placing them near doors, sinks, and other areas where scratching is prone will prevent most damage.
Regular Maintenance: Implement a regular cleaning and maintenance routine to keep the parquet flooring in top condition. Cleaning should be done with a soft bristled brush or damp cloth. Never use much water, especially on real wood flooring. Vinyl and laminate is safer for moisture but do not be excessive when using water to clean. Damp cloths only.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while parquet flooring can add a touch of elegance and timelessness to your kitchen, it does come with some caveats. The price is usually the biggest concern for customers, and depending on the material, particularly if it is real wood parquet flooring, then you need to be aware of moisture and potential spillage in the kitchen. A real wood option would not be the most optimal solution for busy households with children. A LVT click herringbone floor would be better in that scenario.
Ultimately, the decision to use parquet flooring in your kitchen depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and willingness to commit to its upkeep. If you love the look and are prepared to care for it diligently, parquet flooring can be a beautiful and unique choice for your kitchen.