When you are looking for ways to update the look and feel of your restaurant, updating your flooring is one aspect to consider. Flooring can be as much of a focal point as an accent wall, artwork, or other décor in your restaurant or retail space, and can contribute to your business’s overall aesthetic.
The most important aspect of flooring for restaurants is that they meet the safety regulations that are enforced and upheld by laws and by the health department. Finding a solution complying with regulations and code, as well as creating a unique and welcoming space for the foodies of Houston is the challenge restaurant owners face.
As a restaurant owner, you want your customers to enjoy their visit and feel relaxed and flooring can help to that end. Flooring makes part of the first impression of your restaurant, so it should be attractive and welcoming. While people may not initially notice the flooring of a restaurant or retail space, it is an important part of your business when it comes to safety, ambience, and other aspects.
Why is Flooring Important?
When considering an update to your restaurant’s flooring, it is always best to refer to OSHA guidelines or to reach out to your local health inspector to see what options they recommend. For workers’ and customers’ safety, front of house, back of house, restrooms, and other high-traffic areas, you must be mindful of the safety regulations.
Slip-and-fall accidents are one of the most common mishaps in restaurants. Your flooring and treatment options should be selected based on how best to keep your ground space clean, dry, and free from anything that may cause an accident. Other factors, like cost-effectiveness, ease of maintenance, durability, and sanitary factors are all important to keep in mind when considering your options.
What are the Best Options for Restaurant Flooring?
Different types of flooring to update your restaurant include tile, concrete, hardwood, and laminate. Each flooring type offers unique benefits for restaurants. Here are a few options that you may want to consider if you are looking to update your restaurant space.
Tile
Tile is ideal for restaurants because it can stand up to oil and water. Tile adds an upscale appearance and is easy to clean in the event of a spill, a common occurrence in restaurants with in-person dining. Tile flooring gives restaurants a polished look and is excellent for durability.
Concrete
Concrete finishes are a popular option for restaurants with an industrial feel and for spaces with bar areas, entertainment areas (for example, in front of a stage, around pool tables, pinball machines, or other gaming areas), and other high-traffic areas. Concrete flooring is a sleek and versatile option that is also an affordable option. With durability and resistance to stress from changes in temperature, concrete flooring is the ideal option for kitchens as well. It is worth noting that a slip-resistant finish to keep your concrete safe may need to be applied.
Hardwood
Hardwood flooring is compatible with many styles of design in a restaurant. By creating a polished atmosphere, hardwood floor is the perfect option for front of house spaces. Benefits of hardwood flooring is that it adds a beautiful appearance, and it is relatively easy to clean. Since there are so many stain colors and finishes to hardwood flooring, you can elevate your restaurant’s design by complimenting your seating, decor, and bar areas with your wood flooring.
Laminate
An alternative to hardwood flooring is laminate. Laminate flooring is durable, environmentally friendly, and comes in a variety of finishes. Laminate is perfect for high-traffic areas like bars, host stands, or near the kitchen because it can stand up to spills and more. As a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option, many choose laminate for the simple fact that it is made from recycled materials. Restaurants looking to save money on flooring while staying eco-friendly should consider laminate for the dining room or bar area.
Restaurant owners should consider flooring that best fits their restaurant’s overall style and feel. Hardwood brings an elegant appeal, concrete creates an industrial vibe, and tile is great for busy restaurants with a high spill incidence. Laminate is durable and has a variety of styles making it perfect for bars or dining rooms. Updated flooring for each area of your restaurant can help your establishment stand out with a fresh new look for all to enjoy.
New flooring can revitalize your restaurant or other retail space. Finding a contractor that can help you make the updates you need while following all the proper regulations is a next step towards updating your business.
At Streamline Painting & More, we specialize in a full range of services to make your restaurant stand out. Having the credentials to back up our knowledge and expertise, we can transform any restaurant into a unique and welcoming space. If you need help designing your next restaurant update contact us for a free consultation.
