The kitchen is the heart of the home—a place of connection, creativity, and constant activity. But it’s also a space that sees high traffic, occasional spills, and fluctuating temperatures. That’s why choosing the right kitchen flooring is as much about durability and functionality as it is about design.
At Wakol South Africa, we specialise in world-class flooring adhesives, primers, levelling compounds, and moisture barriers. Whether you’re laying hardwood, resilient vinyl, parquet, or cork flooring, our products ensure a long-lasting, professional finish—especially in demanding areas like kitchens.Here’s our guide to the best flooring types for kitchens—and how to prepare and install them for maximum performance.
1. Resilient Vinyl Flooring: Stylish Meets Practical
Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) and sheet vinyl are among the top choices for kitchens thanks to their waterproof qualities, realistic finishes, and durability.
Pros:
- 100% waterproof options available
- Resistant to stains and scratches
- Comfortable underfoot
- Wide range of colours and patterns (including stone and wood looks)
Wakol Tip:
Use Wakol’s low-emission adhesives for PVC and vinyl flooring to ensure long-term bonding even in moisture-prone kitchen areas. Our levelling compounds create the ideal smooth surface for laying LVT perfectly flat.
2. Hardwood Flooring: Warm, Natural Elegance
Hardwood brings a timeless, warm aesthetic to the kitchen—but it requires careful preparation and sealing to perform well in high-moisture zones.
Pros:
- Adds property value
- Long lifespan with proper care
- Natural beauty and warmth
Considerations:
- Must be installed with moisture protection
- Susceptible to water damage if not properly sealed
Wakol Tip:
Pair Wakol’s moisture barrier systems with our elastic hardwood adhesives for superior protection against subfloor dampness. Our products ensure the wood moves naturally with environmental changes—without cracking or lifting.
3. Parquet Flooring: Classic Character, Modern Strength
Parquet floors offer a sophisticated look with geometric patterns that add a designer feel to the kitchen. With today’s advanced adhesives and sealers, parquet can be kitchen-compatible.
Pros:
- Visually striking patterns
- Durable and hardwearing
- Can be sanded and refinished multiple times
Wakol Tip:
Our Wakol PU 280 Moisture Barrier is a must-have beneath parquet floors in the kitchen. Use it alongside our Wakol MS 262 for a high-strength, elastic bond that absorbs movement and resists moisture.
4. Cork Flooring: Comfortable, Sustainable, and Quiet
Cork is an eco-friendly flooring option that offers a soft, quiet surface underfoot—ideal for home cooks who spend a lot of time standing.
Pros:
- Renewable and sustainable
- Naturally water-resistant when sealed
- Warm, cushioned feel
- Great acoustic and thermal insulation
Considerations:
- Needs proper sealing in kitchens
- Softer surface means it’s more prone to dents
Wakol Tip:
Wakol offers cork-specific adhesives that ensure strong bonding without harming the natural integrity of the material. Use our levelling compounds to create a flat, even surface before laying cork for best results.
Key to Kitchen Floor Longevity: What’s Beneath the Surface
No matter which flooring type you choose, what goes underneath matters just as much as what goes on top. Moisture, uneven subfloors, and poor-quality adhesives can compromise your flooring—especially in kitchens where spills and steam are part of everyday life.
For a flawless kitchen floor installation, Wakol offers:
- Moisture barriers to protect against rising damp
- Primer systems for better bonding on difficult substrates
- Levelling compounds for smooth, even surfaces
- High-performance adhesives tailored to each flooring type
Build Kitchens That Last—with Wakol
When it comes to flooring in high-traffic, high-impact zones like the kitchen, premium preparation and installation products make all the difference. At Wakol South Africa, we bring you the German-engineered excellence trusted by flooring professionals around the world.
Whether you’re working on a residential renovation or a large-scale development, trust Wakol to provide the foundation for floors that perform beautifully for years.
Contact us to learn more about our product range or speak to our team for expert installation guidance.