When constructing or renovating a public restroom, you'll want a flooring material that balances design and durability. This high-traffic area is prone to water and grime and requires a surface that can withstand various elements. However, making the final selection can be difficult with many flooring options available. Use this guide to help you decide which material is right for your establishment.

What Elements Should You Consider?

A public bathroom faces a lot of foot traffic, water, and dirt. Thus, its flooring should be easy to clean and moisture resistant to retain its appearance. When selecting what type you want, keep the health and safety of your customers in mind. A wet bathroom floor is inevitable, but the appropriate material can reduce slipping hazards. 

A smooth surface with few cracks and crevices makes cleaning easier and limits health risks. The flooring in the bathroom should also match the overall atmosphere, accentuate or reflect the business's personality, and serve as a visually appealing accent. 

Which Flooring Works Best in Public Restrooms?

Vinyl

Vinyl floors are waterproof, durable, and scratch- and stain-resistant. As a result, they're easy to maintain and safe for staff and clients.

During manufacturing, a high-resolution photographic image gets printed on the base material. Thus, it's available in various colors and can look like other materials, such as wood or marble.

Natural Stone

Natural stone tiles, including travertine, limestone, granite, slate, and marble, are not necessarily waterproof. Still, they have a natural texture that reduces the slickness of wet floors, minimizing the slipping hazard.

Travertine and slate create an earthy, warm and comfortable feeling. These options are strong but require annual sealing to prevent mold and mildew. On the other hand, limestone is soft underfoot, durable, and affordable. However, it also needs regular sealing. Marble and honed granite, while beautiful, can be slippery and are susceptible to stains. 

Tile

Ceramic tiles, made from clay and other natural sediments, are fired in a kiln until they become hard. If treated with a glaze, they can become stain- and water-resistant. Similar to vinyl flooring, they can be printed to look like other materials. They are versatile and strong enough for even the highest traffic areas.

Find the perfect flooring option for your commercial bathroom at Flooring Specialists in Honolulu, HI. For over 25 years, they have offered a wide selection of materials, including vinyl, stone, tile, and hardwood. Their contractors can advise what will work best for the restroom based on your needs and help with installation. Schedule a free estimate today by calling (808) 842-7755, and learn more about their services by visiting their website.