The question on whether or not one can, or should install laminate flooring in a kitchen is most probably the most frequently asked question we get. This is mostly due to concerns over possible water damage from spills or leaking appliances. Let’s first look at general, day to day spills from cooking and cleaning.

A good quality laminate floor, with a high core density (upward of 850 to 950 kg per cubic meter), can be installed in a kitchen. Day to day spills resulting from washing up and cooking, if cleaned up within a reasonable amount of time, won’t cause damage to a good quality product.

Lower grade, or “bargain” products on the other end, won’t hold up to frequent exposure to moisture. These cheaper alternatives have lower core densities which absorb moisture faster when compared to high-end laminate floors with a high core density. This will eventually lead to peaking, and ultimately, to the floor failing.

It is important to note however that even good quality flooring can fail when exposed to excessive amounts of water. Leaking appliances, daily mopping with excessive water, or burst pipes and geysers will cause damage to any laminate flooring (or almost any other type of flooring). Before you install laminate flooring, it is important to check all your connections for signs of leaking. Slow leaks don’t immediately present themselves and when water has been slowly leaking into your floor over an extended period, it will be too late once the floor starts showing signs of damage.

Lastly. Because it is almost impossible to know if and when a pipe or geyser will burst, it may be a good idea to check your insurance policy and make sure that you are covered in such an unfortunate event.

To conclude. When choosing a laminate floor which will be partly, or fully installed in a kitchen, choose a high-end product, made by a reputable manufacturer, that is installed by a professional and qualified installer, like Carpet World Flooring.