The Most Durable Commercial Kitchen Flooring Option

The floor of a commercial kitchen has to endure a lot daily.

Aside from hot and cold spills, it’s subjected to quick and continuous movement throughout the day. Hence, it’s no surprise that you’d want a material that can tolerate them while maintaining proper functionality.

We are here to introduce you to the top 5 durable kitchen flooring materials that will stand the test of time. Read on!

Top 5 Durable Commercial Kitchen Flooring Solutions

1. Resin/Epoxy Flooring

One of the first options that come to mind when discussing commercial kitchen flooring is epoxy, which is extremely durable against regular wear and tear. It’s available in different designs and colours, meaning you can choose one according to your needs.

Firstly, polyurethane (PU) is very hardy and is used with other coatings, like urethane mortar. It’s usually preferred for flooring that receives a lot of footfall. Likewise, some varieties can be installed at 1/2 inch or thicker.

Aside from that, some high-performance urethane coatings come in thin films and are used in tandem with epoxy floorings to reinforce their durability and make them resistant to scratches and chemicals.

While installing PU flooring may not be challenging or time-consuming, we should warn you that it can be pretty time-consuming. Similarly, epoxy floorings usually take a long time to dry out, so the kitchen won’t be ready for use until it has cured, meaning it will take some time to prepare.

One good alternative to resin is ASPART-X, a type of polyaspartic made from a combination of isocyanate and synthetic resin. Its advantages include easy maintenance, quick curing time, and optimum resistance to chemicals and water.

2. Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tiles are a popular option for residential and commercial kitchens, as they offer unmatched durability. Plus, their glazed surfaces are resistant to water and germs or allergens. Ceramic tile floors are easy to clean, so you don’t always have to spend hundreds of dollars for professional maintenance.

Beyond that, they come in several different patterns and colours, so you will invariably find something that suits your kitchen’s overall look and decor. But they aren’t entirely free from disadvantages either.

Like epoxy, ceramic tiles take time to set and cure, prolonging the installation process. Furthermore, they aren’t entirely resistant to cracks, which can happen if the floor is constantly exposed to sharp objects. And the cracks thus formed can allow moisture seepage, making the sub-floor breeding grounds for harmful bacteria.

Not only will these problems make cleaning the tiles difficult, but repairing them can also be lengthy and expensive. Besides, according to the building codes, you may have to invest separately to make the tiles slip-resistant.

Hence, plan your budget accordingly.

3. Vinyl

Commercial vinyl is a flexible material that can adapt to the flooring underneath. For instance, if vinyl is laid on top of concrete, it will result in a floor resistant to most damages and easy to clean.

Additionally, you can lay it on top of a padded layer to cushion the flooring for comfort and ease of mobility. However, this may result in less resistance to damages from heavy foot traffic, so it may not be a viable option for commercial kitchens.

Vinyl flooring is generally prone to discolouration over time, and even small-scale stains will require you to replace the whole floor to remedy the problem.

On the bright side, it’s available in sheet and tile forms, which are both easy to install. The former has fewer seams and is less prone to infestation by moisture, dirt, or bacteria.

4. Natural Stone

Natural stone may not be the most conventional choice for commercial kitchens. However, it often emerges as the top choice in open kitchens where aesthetics is important. At the same time, the durability of natural stone offers a fair bit of resistance against different damages.

Since natural stone almost always has a grooved or textured surface, choosing the right type is crucial so they don’t restrict mobility. After all, the last thing you’d want is to work in a kitchen where you can’t move with speed!

Besides, too many grooves or deep textures can cause dirt and debris to settle in, making maintenance extremely expensive and time-consuming. Some natural stone surfaces may also need to be treated to make them slip-resistant.

5. Polished Concrete

Polished concrete is yet another popular flooring option for many rooms and areas, and commercial kitchens are no exception. Although it’s primarily known for its high durability, polished concrete surfaces can be tailored to achieve a variety of textures, colours, inlays and shades. Its hard and flat surface is also resistant to impact and heat-related damage.

For extra safety, you can also have a non-slip coating added to your polished concrete to ensure no slips or falls in the workplace. This is particularly important in wet areas.

Finding The Best Type Of Kitchen Flooring

On that note, it’s time for us to wrap up this guide.

As a result, the best commercial floor designers have a wealth of experience in providing cost-effective solutions for optimum functionality and aesthetics. During the cleaning process, ensure a brief overview of every step involved in the maintenance process to prevent any damage to the surface.

Whether designing a commercial kitchen for the first time or looking to change its flooring, we advise seeking professional help. At Top Coat Concrete, our Sydney flooring specialists can provide perfect solutions for your commercial kitchen. Call us today or get a free estimate!