Using Rubber Flooring for Kitchens

Kitchens are one of the most high-traffic areas of the home, and as such, require flooring that is both durable and easy to clean. Rubber flooring has emerged as a popular option for kitchen floors due to its many benefits. Here is an in-depth look at using rubber flooring in kitchens.

Benefits of Using Rubber Flooring in Kitchens

Rubber flooring offers several advantages that make it well-suited for kitchen installation:

Durability

Kitchen floors take a beating with constant foot traffic, dropped dishes and utensils, and spills of all kinds. Rubber’s elasticity allows it to “give” slightly under pressure and then return to form without damage. This makes it more durable than hard surfaces like tile or wood. Rubber also has natural resistance to scratches, scuffs, and stains.

Slip Resistance

With lots of traffic, water, and grease, kitchen floors can get slick. Rubber’s intrinsic grip comes from the friction its surface provides. Rubber flooring provides a high degree of traction, even when wet, reducing the chances of slips and falls. This is a major safety benefit in the home’s busiest room.

Comfort Underfoot

The soft, flexible nature of rubber makes it more comfortable to stand on for long periods of time compared to hard flooring materials. This can help reduce leg and back fatigue for cooks.

Easy Maintenance

Rubber flooring is easy to clean with just soap and water. Its resistance to most stains also cuts down on maintenance. It does not require waxing or refinishing over time like wood floors. Rubber’s impermeability also makes it hygienic and inhospitable to mold, mildew, and bacteria growth.

Noise Reduction

The density and resilience of rubber floors helps dampen sounds from footsteps, appliances, dishes, and utensils. This can keep kitchen noise from disturbing other parts of the home.

Affordability

Rubber flooring is competitive in price with vinyl plank flooring and is generally cheaper than stone, tile, or hardwood. The durability and low maintenance needs of rubber also make it cost-effective in the long run.

Style Options

Rubber floors come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures. Stone, brick, and wood visuals provide options to match most decors. Both smooth and textured finishes are available to suit taste and safety needs.

Considerations When Choosing Rubber Flooring for Kitchens

There are a few factors to weigh when selecting rubber flooring for kitchen installation:

Traffic Levels

In high-traffic kitchens, choose rubber flooring with thicker wear layers for maximum durability. Dense, compression-resistant rubber compounds are best for heavy loads. Textured surfaces also help high-traffic rubber last longer.

Safety Qualities

Opt for flooring with slip-resistant ratings from certifying organizations like the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI). A high coefficient of friction indicates good wet and dry traction. Also check that heat resistance is sufficient for any contact with hot pots, pans, or appliances.

Style and Design

Consider the flooring color and pattern in relation to cabinets, countertops, walls, and décor. Also think about the visual flow if kitchen flooring extends into other living spaces. The flooring edge should complement transitions to other types of flooring.

Ease of Cleaning

Some rubber flooring has textures or grooves that may trap debris. Smooth surfaces are easiest to sweep and mop. Minimal seams also help maintain hygiene. Antimicrobial additives can further boost cleanability.

Comfort Level

Softer rubber compounds generally provide more comfortable standing and walking. However, they may be more prone to indentations from heavy appliances. The thickness of the wear layer also affects underfoot feel.

Installation Method

Rubber tiles allow a DIY installation. Rolls and plank flooring often require professional fitting. The subfloor type also determines what installation methods can be used.

Costs

Rubber flooring costs vary based on the product quality, thickness, installation method, and if professional installation is needed. Higher-end options provide extended service life compared to economy grades.

Popular Options for Rubber Flooring in Kitchens

Several types of rubber flooring are well-suited to kitchen use:

Rubber Tiles

Rubber tiles come in interlocking squares typically measuring 12″x12″ or 18″x18″. They allow easy DIY installation and replacement of damaged tiles. Tiles are available in a diverse range of realistic stone and wood looks. Grout lines between tiles can collect dirt.

Rolled Sheet Rubber

Sheet rubber comes in wide rolls to cover large spans seamlessly. It provides a uniform look and uninterrupted feel underfoot. Dense, commercial-grade options resist heavy loads. Rolled floors require professional installation. Durability depends on the thickness and rubber compound qualities.

Rubber Plank Flooring

Plank flooring mimics hardwood with long, narrow strips. The planks click or snap together for floating installation and have attached underlayment. Many plank options are DIY-friendly. The linear design suits both traditional and contemporary kitchen aesthetics.

Rubber “Wood” Tile

These tiles have the look of natural wood flooring. Tile sizes and shapes create a pattern that resembles planks or parquet floors. The realistic visuals combine with rubber’s practical benefits. Grouted seams must be cleaned routinely.

Studded Rubber Mats

These industrial-grade mats feature nubs, ridges, or holes across the surface to remove water, debris, and liquids from shoes. They provide maximum slip and fall protection, though comfort and looks are secondary. Hard-wearing studded rubber suits high-traffic kitchens.

Pros and Cons of Leading Rubber Flooring Types for Kitchens

Tips for Installing Rubber Flooring in Kitchens

Proper installation is key to getting the most out of rubber flooring. Here are best practices to follow:

Have a professional install rolled or plank rubber flooring for proper seaming and substrate bonding.
Thoroughly clean and level the subfloor prior to installation. Fix any dampness or stability issues first.
Acclimate rubber tiles or planks to room temperature for 24-48 hours before fitting.
Use adhesives made specifically for rubber floors for the strongest bond.
Roll sheets in multiple directions after applying adhesive to flatten and remove trapped air.
Avoid regular exposure to excess moisture, which can loosen tile adhesive or warp planks.
Limit direct sunlight exposure over time which can cause rubber to contract or fade colors.
Add slip-resistant transition strips between kitchen and other flooring to prevent trip hazards.
Save extra tiles or planks in case future replacements or repairs are needed.

Caring for Rubber Flooring in Kitchens

Once installed, rubber floors require minimal maintenance:

Sweep, mop, or vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris that can abrade the surface.
Clean spills promptly to prevent stains, using recommended cleaners. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Wash with mild soap and water. Rubber resists most stains but is not stain-proof.
Grout lines between tiles will need periodic scrubbing to remove trapped gunk.
Inspect flooring routinely for damage and replace individual tiles or planks as needed.
Consider re-sealing grout lines annually to prevent moisture seepage underneath tiles.
Use furniture glides and padding under appliances to prevent indentations in the rubber.
Deeper scuffs or scratches can usually be buffed out with fine grit sandpaper and a rubber floor cleaner.

FAQs About Using Rubber Flooring in Kitchens

Does rubber flooring need any coating or wax?

No, rubber does not require any coating or wax, which can actually damage its surface over time. Proper cleaning is all that is needed.

How long does rubber flooring last in kitchens?

With quality materials and proper care, rubber lasts 15-30 years in kitchens. Textured or commercial grade options have even longer lifespans.

Is rubber flooring eco-friendly?

Yes, rubber is an eco-friendly flooring choice. Made from the sap of rubber trees, it is a rapidly renewable resource. It can also be recycled. Rubber production emits fewer greenhouse gases than synthetic flooring.

Does rubber flooring need an underlayment?

Not necessarily. Attached underlayment on plank floors provides moisture, sound, and insulation barriers. With other rubber formats, a separate underlay is optional and depends on the subfloor type.

Can you install rubber flooring over concrete?

Yes, rubber flooring can be installed over concrete. The slab must be level, cured, and free of moisture problems that could cause adhesion issues. A moisture barrier may be advisable.

Is rubber flooring better than vinyl?

It depends on your needs. Rubber provides better sound absorption and is more eco-friendly. Vinyl offers more diverse patterns and stone looks. Vinyl costs less but does not have rubber’s durability.

Can rubber flooring be heated?

Yes, hydronic radiant heating systems can be installed beneath rubber flooring. The system must heat the subfloor rather than the rubber directly, with temperature sensors to prevent overheating.

Can you refinish rubber flooring?

Rubber cannot be refinished in the manner of hardwood. Sanding or stripping will damage the wear layer. However, rubber cleaners can restore superficial scuffs and scratches to like-new condition.

Conclusion

With its supreme durability, slip resistance, comfort, and easy maintenance, rubber flooring is ideal for the demanding needs of kitchen spaces. Numerous style and installation options exist to complement any kitchen décor. Following proper installation and care guidelines will help rubber flooring perform for many years of heavy use in the home’s busiest room. This family-friendly, eco-conscious flooring material provides a safe, cushioned, hygienic surface that withstands the kitchen’s messiest accidents and highest traffic levels. For home chefs seeking flooring that can take a beating, rubber hits all the right notes.