Guide

How Much Does a New Kitchen Floor Cost?

A new kitchen floor has to handle spills, dropped pans and heavy footfall, so the choice of material matters as much as the cost. Here's how the options compare.

The main options

Tiles are hard-wearing and fully waterproof but cold and unforgiving on dropped crockery. Luxury vinyl is waterproof, warmer and quieter, and has become the go-to kitchen floor. Laminate is cheaper but risky in a kitchen unless it's a water-resistant type, because spills at the joints can cause swelling.

Typical costs

Vinyl and laminate materials sit in a similar range, roughly £12 to £30 per square metre for good quality. Tiles span wider, from budget ceramics to premium porcelain, plus adhesive and grout. Use our flooring cost calculator for vinyl and laminate, or the tile calculator for a tiled floor.

Fitting considerations

Kitchens are full of obstacles — units, islands, appliances — so there's more cutting and more waste than an empty room. Allow a bit extra on the waste percentage. A very flat subfloor matters for vinyl and tiles especially, and may need levelling compound first.

The practical verdict

For most kitchens, waterproof luxury vinyl offers the best balance of cost, comfort and durability. Tiles suit those who want maximum durability and don't mind the hardness and cost. Standard laminate is best avoided near sinks and dishwashers unless it's specifically water-resistant.