Tile vs Hardwood: What Works Best in NC Kitchens?
- Mollie Staretorp
- Feb 13
- 2 min read
In kitchen renovations, flooring is more than a backdrop. It sets the tone for the space and shapes how it feels to live in. For North Carolina homeowners, two top contenders are tile and hardwood.
Both offer beauty. Both offer lasting value. But in our Raleigh-Durham climate, and with the way real families use their kitchens, the right choice depends on what matters most to you.
Tile: Durable and Moisture-Resistant
Porcelain and ceramic tile are longtime kitchen staples. And for good reason. They're water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean.
In North Carolina’s humid climate, tile holds up well. You don’t have to worry about expansion or contraction due to seasonal shifts. And for high-traffic kitchens or households with pets, tile is incredibly durable.
It's also endlessly customizable. From hand-painted patterns to large-format stone-look tiles, you can match any style.
That said, tile can be hard underfoot. In long cooking sessions, or for families with young kids, that can be a consideration.
Hardwood: Warm, Timeless, and Soft Underfoot
Hardwood brings natural warmth that’s hard to beat. It’s softer to stand on than tile, and many homeowners love the way it blends with adjacent rooms, especially in open-concept homes.
In North Carolina, where we often see older homes with existing hardwood, refinishing and extending hardwood into the kitchen can create a seamless look.
But hardwood isn’t immune to kitchen wear. It’s more vulnerable to water and scratches. With pets, spills, or frequent cooking, it takes some upkeep to keep it looking its best.
Still, for homeowners prioritizing a cozy, continuous feel, hardwood has enduring appeal.
What About Luxury Vinyl?
For some, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) offers a third option. It mimics the look of hardwood but offers water resistance similar to tile.
We often recommend LVP to Raleigh homeowners who want the visual warmth of wood without the worry. It’s especially useful in kitchens with heavy use or open plans where kids and pets roam freely.
Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand. The durability and realism vary.
Local Considerations for Raleigh Kitchens
Our region’s weather matters. Humidity, seasonal changes, and even red clay can affect flooring choices.
Tile works well in homes where durability and cleaning ease are top priorities.
Hardwood shines when continuity and comfort are front and center.
And for some homeowners, LVP provides a "best of both worlds" solution.
Final Thoughts on Tile vs Hardwood
When you’re renovating your kitchen, flooring should support how you live every day.
Think about:
How much time you spend standing and cooking
Whether you’re dealing with spills, pets, or young kids
How your kitchen flows into other rooms
There’s no single winner in the tile vs hardwood debate. But there is a best choice for your kitchen.
If you're ready to choose materials that reflect your life and elevate your space, Arcane Grain is here to help. Let's create a kitchen that feels as good as it looks.
