Commercial Kitchen Flooring: Choosing the Best Options for a Hard-Working Space in Australia

For these areas, the right flooring is about durability, safety, and use rather than only a design decision. Commercial kitchen flooring must work on another level completely unlike a home kitchen, which may get away with a basic tile or laminate.

Here’s a close-up look at the best commercial kitchen flooring options available in Australia, key qualities to consider, and tips for getting it right.

Key qualities of commercial kitchen flooring

Durability and strength

Kitchens are busy spaces, which is the floors usually take a beating. From sudden hits (such as when pans are dropped) to the continuous movement of people and equipment, they handle it all. 

Plus, these floors need to support heavy commercial equipment like industrial ovens and refrigerators, which can place significant strain on standard materials. A durable floor is one that can take this on without showing wear too soon.

Slip resistance

Not only is slip-resistant flooring desirable, but it is essential, as any kitchen manager will tell you. Built-in dishwashers, for instance, frequently release steam and water. So, slip resistance is a major factor for safety in a commercial kitchen. 

Non-slip materials help prevent falls, especially with liquids and oils often finding their way to the floor. It’s one of the primary considerations in a busy kitchen where staff safety is a priority.

Maintenance and hygiene

In food preparation sections, cleanliness is non-negotiable. You’ve got equipment like large range hoods drawing up grease and steam, after all.

Flooring that doesn't absorb grease and resists stains guarantees that the kitchen satisfies health standards and helps make daily maintenance easier. Floors that need minimal scrubbing or special treatment save time and help keep up the required hygiene standards.

Moisture and chemical resistance

Commercial kitchens need thorough cleaning since they deal with frequent spills and chemical resistance. Chemicals used in cleaning agents can be quite abrasive and harmful to some materials. Flooring that resists these elements will last longer and stay looking new.

Popular types of commercial kitchen flooring

Here’s a breakdown of the best options, with each offering something different in terms of performance, durability, and maintenance.

1. Epoxy Flooring

Epoxy is a seamless, resin-based material that hardens into a solid, tough surface. Its popularity in both commercial kitchens and other industrial environments stems from its ability to produce an absolutely smooth, unbroken surface, as well as toughness from heavy use. 

• Pros: Epoxy flooring provide great resistance to stains, chemicals, and spills. They can be customized as well so you can choose textures and colors that match the area.

• Cons: You’ll need professional installation which raises upfront costs. Not to mention, epoxy floors can get slippery if not properly textured.

• Price Range: AUD $80 - $150 per square meter.

2. Vinyl Flooring

Affordable and flexible, vinyl provides a wide range of visual and tactile choices. Often used for tighter budgets, it's a flexible material available in sheets, tiles, and planks.

• Pros: Small kitchens would find vinyl an excellent option since it is water-resistant, slip-resistant, and relatively simple to install. It's also reasonably priced, which is great for kitchens with no desire for something upscale.

• Cons: Vinyl might not hold up in high-heat environments like near ovens or fryers. It may also get damaged or torn under heavy machinery.

• Price Range: AUD $30 - $60 per square meter.

3. Tile Flooring

Tiles, whether ceramic or porcelain, are traditional but practical. They have practically any design you could imagine. They also handle high temperatures well, and are remarkably hard-wearing.

• Pros: Tiles are heat-resistant and easy to clean. Plus, they have plenty of designs so can add a touch of style to any place.

• Cons: Tiles can crack or chip, especially if heavy items are dropped. Grout lines also require regular cleaning, which adds to the maintenance.

• Price Range: AUD $50 - $100 per square meter.

4. Rubber Flooring

Known for comfort, rubber flooring is a great option in kitchens where employees stand for long periods. It’s also a non-slip material, making it popular for safety.

• Pros: Cushioned feel, slip-resistant, shock-absorbent, and resistant to most spills. Rubber is forgiving underfoot, which can be a plus in fast-paced kitchens.

• Cons: Rubber is less durable than epoxy or tile and may not hold up as well under heavy-duty machinery. Unsealed rubber may also stain if exposed to certain chemicals.

• Price Range: AUD $40 - $90 per square meter.

5. Concrete Flooring with Non-Slip Additives

Concrete is highly durable and well-suited to large, high-traffic areas. As long as you include non-slip additives, it’s a rather safe, economical option.

• Pros: Tough, low-maintenance, and relatively affordable, especially for large areas. Concrete can be customized with sealants or finishes to fit the space and design.

• Cons: Very hard on the feet. This may not be ideal in kitchens where standing is common. Professional installation is also required for a safe, lasting floor.

• Price Range: AUD $60 - $120 per square meter.

6. Resin Flooring

Although resin flooring looks just like epoxy, it is far more flexible and softer underfoot. This means it’s a comfortable choice if you have a busy kitchen.

• Pros: High resilience, good slip resistance, and easy to clean. Resin can also be customized in color and texture, making it a flexible choice for design-focused kitchens.

• Cons: Like epoxy, it requires professional installation, and the costs are higher. Resin floors may also need touch-ups over time.

• Price Range: AUD $90 - $160 per square meter.

Tips for choosing the right flooring contractor

When it comes to commercial kitchens, hiring the right contractor is just as important as picking the right flooring. Here’s what to look for:

• Specialized experience. Not every contractor has worked in commercial kitchens. Look for one who understands the unique demands of these spaces.

• Warranty and maintenance options. Check if the contractor offers a warranty and asks about ongoing maintenance requirements. Having a contractor who can advise on this will give you more peace of mind.

• References and reviews. A good contractor will be able to show past projects and offer references. Look for testimonials or photos of previous work in similar settings.

Installing the right flooring for your kitchen

Selecting flooring for a commercial kitchen is about making a smart, long-term choice. It’s an investment in the safety, durability, and efficiency of your space. 

Flooring that performs well, like epoxy or resin, may cost more upfront but will last for years with minimal maintenance. For budget-conscious projects, options like vinyl or rubber can work just as well if chosen thoughtfully. 

Every option has trade-offs, but with the right flooring underfoot, your kitchen will be ready to handle whatever comes its way.