As a commercial flooring company, we’ve often been asked what the best flooring materials for restaurants are. And, our response is always, that depends. Probably not the quick answer you were looking for, however, it’s true. There really is not one best material for a restaurant’s flooring. In fact, some eating establishments have three or four different flooring materials. We do, however, have some advice to help you choose the best materials for your restaurant.
In this two-part blog series, we’re going to focus on the four primary areas in most restaurants: dining & bar area, back of house (kitchen & offices), restrooms, and lobby. Today we’re covering just the dining room because there are the most options for commercial flooring in a dining room.
Carpet
Yes, carpet is still a popular choice for dining room flooring. However, there are two common categories where we install carpet: upscale dining establishments (think country clubs and fine dining) and assisted living. Upscale restaurants utilize carpet because it provides better sound absorption. Senior living centers like it because it prevents slip and fall accidents more than other flooring materials. Carpet can work in any restaurant where you want to create a warm, welcoming feeling. Of course, the downside is you’ll need to invest in regular carpet cleaning.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVF) often tops the list of best flooring materials for restaurants’ dining areas. A few reasons include:
- Options – LVF can look like tile or wood floor. It comes in many colors and designs so you can create just about any look or feel in your restaurant.
- Durability – Commercial grade LVF will last for years.
- Waterproof – Quality luxury vinyl products are waterproof, making them a better choice than actual wood or engineered wood and many traditional sheet vinyl or vinyl tiles.
- Low Maintenance – There’s no need to refinish it and you’ll never have grout lines to clean.
Why isn’t luxury vinyl flooring the best flooring? Depending on style and brand, it can be more costly than other options. And, if one piece is damaged, there’s no way to fix that piece. You can pull up that section of the floor and replace it, but not repair it.
Tile Flooring
Although tile flooring is a popular flooring material in Florida because it’s waterproof, it’s not always considered among the best flooring materials for restaurants, especially in the dining area. We do like it in some situations because it is durable. Quality porcelain tile is water, stain, and scratch resistant. You can find quality commercial flooring tiles in many colors, styles, and price points. However, it can be slippery, so choose carefully if you decide you want tile. Another drawback is that tile is prone to breaking. The only maintenance is to the grout, which may need periodic replacing or deep cleaning from time to time.
Commercial Laminate
Commercial laminate is a common flooring material for restaurants. It’s among the more affordable options and it is available in styles from wood look to tile and even natural stone. Add to the fact that it’s durable and will last for years, you may think of it as the right choice. However, it’s not very water resistant. It can also be quite slippery when wet. We don’t often install laminate in the dining area.
Vinyl Flooring
Different than luxury vinyl, sheet vinyl and vinyl tiles have long been a popular choice for their durability and wide range of colors and patterns. Sheet vinyl is one of the more affordable flooring options, however, a drawback of sheet vinyl is that once damaged, the whole sheet must be replaced. Vinyl tiles can be replaced and come in many options. However, it too can be slippery.
Concrete & Epoxy Floors
Brewery and bars are utilizing concrete or concrete epoxy flooring more than ever. It can be a great option. However, it’s not always among the best flooring materials for restaurants. First, it’s hard to stand on. Your servers and staff may ask for padding at the check-in area or in prep areas. Second, if not properly finished, it can be the most slippery of flooring. Finally, when the foundation settles, you may end up with unsightly or dangerous cracks. If this is your choice, make sure that a reputable flooring company with experience in concrete or epoxy flooring installs it.
Seer Flooring Offers Commercial Flooring in Restaurants
As you can see from our rather detailed flooring options for the dining areas, there really are many best flooring materials for restaurants. When you trust us with your commercial flooring needs, we’ll get to know you, your needs, clients, and understand your budget and timeline to help you choose the right flooring for your space. Call us today at (727) 469-7963 or fill out our contact form to schedule your no obligation consultation and quote. Stay tuned for part two where we’ll talk about back of house, lobby, and restroom flooring materials for restaurants.