There are at least half a dozen traditional flooring materials for commercial restaurants, which include hardwood, luxury vinyl, laminate, tile, rubber, concrete, and stone. While all these have many great features, they are not all ideal or suitable for many restaurants.
For example, while hardwood has excellent aesthetics, it is not moisture resistant; laminate is moisture resistant and scratch proof but if one segment becomes damaged, the entire flooring needs to be replaced as it cannot simply be repaired.
A relative newcomer to the world of flooring is epoxy flooring used in restaurant and it is fast catching on as the flooring of choice for commercial restaurants. Here are some of the reasons why some are turning to restaurant epoxy flooring.
1. Won’t Grow Bacteria:
In a restaurant/kitchen environment where there are almost always spills on the floor from food, fluids, oils, and grease, and the indoor temperature is usually warm, the risk of growing bacteria and mold is very high. Bacteria can spread and cause rot within no time.
One of the great features of epoxy flooring is that it comes embedded with chemicals that resist the growth of bacteria. While you still need to clean up the spills, the risk of damage and rot to the flooring is very low.
2. Seamless Finish:
Several of the traditional floorings are installed piece by piece and this creates an endless number of seams where both moisture and food particles can enter and penetrate the subflooring.
With epoxy flooring for restaurants, the finish is seamless and, hence, there are no gaps where water can penetrate below the flooring. This prevents damage to the subfloor and increases the durability of the material. The seamless finish also makes it easy to clean the flooring.
3. Durable:
Another key feature of epoxy flooring is its durability. Restaurant epoxy flooring material can withstand the daily wear and tear from endless foot and roller traffic with ease. Epoxy flooring is scratch and stain resistant and, more important, it does not accumulate dirt or debris. The abrasion-resistant flooring can withstand the pressure from the constant movement of equipment or furniture without developing dents and cracks.
This is especially important because vendors and suppliers are always moving in and out of the restaurant with heavy appliances and other furniture. If the restaurant epoxy flooring is well maintained and kept clean, it should easily last several decades or more.
4. Non-Slip:
Many traditional flooring materials become very slippery when wet. This is true of concrete, vinyl, laminate, and tiles. Slippery floors not only increase the risk of injury to your employees and customers, but they can also lead to litigation and other hospital expenses.
Fortunately, epoxy flooring is made with slip-resistance features. The surface coating is not slippery even when wet. In any case, however, you should still, of course, clean up all spills ASAP to prevent accidents because the potential for slipping increases when employees carry heavy loads and are rushing to meet customer needs.
5. Many Styles and Patterns:
Another of the many advantages of restaurant epoxy flooring is that it is available in many styles and patterns to match almost any decor. You can choose from modern art to the latest patterns, like frosty, black granite, oyster, storm, or glacier. These classy, elegant designs are warm, inviting, and make the place look spacious and bright.
6. Easy to Clean:
Another great feature of epoxy flooring for restaurants is that it is relatively easy to clean. All you need is to sweep or vacuum it regularly. All scuff marks and spills can easily be cleaned with detergent and a wet mop. There is virtually no downtime, and the flooring can be used right away.
7. Installation:
The key to epoxy resin and durability is to have it properly installed. While the flooring is relatively easy to install, you still need a professional to do the job. The corners and edges have to be carefully sealed to prevent moisture from seeping through.
What are the Disadvantages of Epoxy Flooring?
- Epoxy floors are usually firm and hard, but this is what is required to counter the heavy foot traffic.
- Epoxy floors may feel cold, like tiles. However, in a restaurant where it is usually warm, the cold flooring can be a blessing.
- If a crack or dent develops, it may become visible. To prevent this obvious visibility, it is important to select the appropriate pattern that can hide scuffs and dirt marks best.
What is the Cost of Epoxy Flooring?
In general, the cost per square foot varies from $3 to $7, depending on the style and pattern. The installation cost would be about the same. The final price will depend on the size of the area that needs flooring.
CONCLUSION
Restaurant epoxy flooring is relatively new to the world of restaurants, but this is one flooring that meets most of the needs of the business. It is slip-resistant, has antimicrobial properties, is durable, easy to install, and available in many designs and patterns. If you are considering flooring for your restaurant, speak to a professional from East Coast Flooring & Interiors to learn the virtues of epoxy flooring for restaurants. Call them today at 1-954-773-9575.