In fact, of course, no one will forbid you to choose laminate flooring as your kitchen flooring. However, many designers are categorically against such a decision! Our advice site decided to find out for what reasons laminate flooring is disliked by professionals in the field of interior design.
The first reason why designers oppose the use of laminate is that this material cannot be called natural. It consists of the following layers:
- The base is made of fiberboard or MDF, which are made from wood fibers, but with the addition of synthetic binders;
- The second layer is decorative. It is simply cellulose, on which a pattern is applied that imitates the structure of wood;
- Thermosetting polymer or synthetic resin, which, in fact, will be responsible for lamination, protection of the laminate. It is they who can have minor fumes of harmful formaldehydes.
According to experts, the laminate is not a bit more natural than modern linoleum, let alone marmoleum, about which the portal wrote in detail. The designers claim that the laminate, created by pressing and adding synthetic materials, is very far from natural wood. Actually, it’s just compressed glued laminated paper.
The second reason for the dislike of designers for laminate is the dubious correspondence of price and quality. Experts remind those who decide to save money on kitchen flooring that a truly cheap laminate will never be moisture and wear resistant. That is, it will not last long. A high-quality laminate of a class of at least 32–33 with a protective film against moisture will cost no less than ceramic tiles and can be compared in price with porcelain stoneware. Therefore, if we talk about savings, the best choice is modern linoleum. And if about strength and durability, then tiles and porcelain stoneware have a clear advantage over laminate.
The third reason why experts do not advise laying laminate flooring in the kitchen is its fear of moisture. Many manufacturers claim that it is their laminate that is precisely moisture resistant, unlike competitors, of course. There are plastic-based coatings instead of fiberboard, but this is no longer laminate, but vinyl tiles. At the same time, even a wear-resistant class 34 laminate designed for rooms with high traffic is afraid of moisture in the same way as a class 31 house laminate..
Some try to solve the moisture barrier problem by treating the joints between laminate slabs with wax or silicone. But such sealing of seams is short-lived! After a few months, the protection will simply be erased and the laminate will again be defenseless against spilled liquids.
The fourth reason to refuse laminate in the kitchen is that the upper layer laminated with resins is scratched, damaged by a fallen knife or other hard and sharp object. Yes, high-quality laminate is protected from abrasion, but not from mechanical damage!
In addition, the laminate will fade. Therefore, if you decide to rearrange the furniture in the kitchen, it will most likely turn out that the coating is noticeably different in color. And under the sink, where the humidity is high, the laminate can simply swell. And all these changes will be noticeable in the event of rearrangement and cosmetic repairs. Designers claim that such a coating is by no means “for centuries”. 15 years – and you will definitely have to change your laminate in the kitchen, while tiles and porcelain stoneware will last much longer.
What alternatives to laminate in the kitchen do designers offer:
- High quality, absolutely safe, beautiful and durable linoleum;
- Traditional ceramic tiles, especially for the floor. With epoxy grout between the joints;
- Porcelain stoneware, which looks very presentable and lasts as long as possible;
- Self-leveling floor.
Despite such a negative opinion of designers about laminate in the kitchen, if this material is chosen correctly, it can last long enough. On the web, we found many positive reviews from homeowners who note that the laminate has withstood both small children and pets, has been lying for several years without losing its appearance.
Why you shouldn’t lay laminate in the kitchen
Laminate flooring may not be suitable for your kitchen due to its susceptibility to moisture damage. Potential issues that can arise include warping, water spots, and even mold growth. It is also not as durable as other flooring options like vinyl or tile. Moreover, it can't be refinished and may fade with time. For these reasons, it is advisable to invest in more suitable flooring for your kitchen.
Renovation and finishing 
Why is it not recommended to install laminate flooring in the kitchen? Is it due to water damage or excessive moisture exposure? How does the laminate flooring handle spills or cooking accidents? Are there alternative flooring options that might be more suitable for the kitchen environment?
Installing laminate flooring in the kitchen is not recommended primarily due to water damage or excessive moisture exposure. Laminate is not as water-resistant as other flooring options, and frequent spills or cooking accidents can lead to warping or swelling of the boards. However, some newer laminates have improved moisture resistance. That said, it is generally advisable to choose a flooring material specifically designed to withstand moisture, such as vinyl, tile, or natural stone. These options are more suitable for the kitchen environment as they can handle spills or cooking accidents without significant damage.
Installing laminate flooring in the kitchen is not recommended because it is not as water-resistant as other flooring options. Laminate can warp or swell when exposed to frequent spills or cooking accidents. Although newer laminates have improved moisture resistance, it is better to choose flooring materials like vinyl, tile, or natural stone that are designed to handle moisture. These options can withstand spills or cooking accidents without significant damage, making them more suitable for the kitchen environment.