Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Restaurant
Ambiance is almost as important as your menu. After all, people want to enjoy walking through the door of your restaurant. If they don’t like the décor, they may not be comfortable and may not return. The flooring is a major, but often overlooked part of a restaurant’s décor.
Let’s talk about your options.
- Carpet
- Tile
- Vinyl
- Hardwood
- Cement
There are pros and cons with each.
With carpet, you don’t have to worry about anyone slipping and falling, and it’s a very affordable floor covering. However, carpet collects stains. If spills aren’t cleaned up right away, you also run the risk of developing odors as well as mold and mildew issues.
Tile is relatively affordable and various colors and designs can be incorporated throughout a restaurant. It can be easy to clean and will last a long time. The main downside is that it can be slippery when wet and cause slips and falls.
Vinyl is one of the most affordable flooring options. A number of colors and designs are available. The biggest problem that you could encounter with vinyl is that it can tear and be damaged over time. Vinyl will only last a limited amount of time and it certainly isn’t a high-end option.
Hardwood is one of the more expensive options, but it can last the life of the restaurant. Various wood grains and stains are available. It’s natural and blends with wood furniture. Over time, the wood may get scratches, but it can be refinished and polished.
Cement may be the easiest option. It can be painted or finished. Cement is relatively easy to clean and won’t show any stains. It’s not the best-looking flooring, however, and if someone were to fall, it’s going to hurt.
If cost is your main consideration, cement, vinyl or carpet are your best options. Also, if safety is your main concern, then carpet is the way to go. If appearance, then tile or wood.
There’s no perfect flooring option, but if you weigh your priorities, you’ll find the right one for you.