From left to right: strips, planks,
parquet

Hardwood Flooring for Kitchens and Baths

You needn't fear to tread on wood in your kitchen or bath. New sealants ensure many types of hardwood flooring can survive the rigors of cooking spills or shower drips as long as you diligently wipe up moisture.

Pictured here, left to right, are the three basic board and tile options available: strips, planks, and parquet.

• Strips: Boards less than 2 1/4 inches wide are called strips. Strip flooring is usually less expensive than wider boards because more pieces can be milled from each tree. Strips tend to have a contemporary, graphic look.
• Planks: Boards wider than 2 1/4 inches are called planks. Extra-wide planks, 7 inches or more, are especially popular in today's old-world or country-style kitchens. Wide profiles show off the wood grain, recall antique floors, and result in fewer seams.
• Parquet: The pattern found on a parquet tile is formed by wood pieces in various species, sizes, shapes, and colors that have been glued together. The direction of the grain enhances the pattern play. These tiles are highly decorative and can look quite formal.