Question: I’m thinking of having a vinyl floor installed in our kitchen because I like the way it feels underfoot, but my husband doesn’t think it will work with our high-end cabinets and granite countertops. Is he right?

Answer: You may want to take your husband on a visit to our showroom to see the truly beautiful choices you have in vinyl today. New designs really stand up to more expensive flooring options. This kitchen shows one vinyl choice that closely resembles porcelain tile. The upscale design easily works with this kitchen.

Vinyl floors are also gentler on the feet in a room that involves a lot of standing if you like to cook. Vinyl, laminate and wood floors are considered “soft” flooring as opposed to tile and stone’s hard surfaces.

Vinyl is also an easy clean floor. Just a damp mop or cloth keeps it looking its best. This particular pattern and color combination will keep the every little spot from showing dramatically, keeping the room looking nice even after a major cooking extravaganza.

The other major advantage to vinyl is cost. With its reasonable cost per square foot compared to tile or stone, you can select a higher-end vinyl flooring while still staying in your budget.

As you make choices for your home, be sure to pay attention to your personal preferences. This is not a model home; it’s the place you will be living in, probably for years. When you combine your design goals with the functionality you really want, then you will have a home that is both livable and beautiful.