Restaurant flooring must endure constant foot traffic, spills, and the occasional scrape from furniture. Wood flooring, while a timeless and elegant choice, requires a relatively simple but specific maintenance routine to ensure it remains in top condition. The Solid Wood Flooring Company has a range of high-end wood flooring options designed for restaurants. With a few key strategies, you can maintain and extend the life of your restaurant’s wood flooring, preserving its beauty and functionality for years to come.

Adopt a wood-friendly cleaning routine

Regular cleaning is essential to keep your wood flooring looking its best. Begin by sweeping or vacuuming daily to remove dirt, dust, and debris. These particles can act like sandpaper, scratching the surface of the wood. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to avoid damaging the finish. For a deeper clean, use a damp mop with a wood-friendly cleaner. Avoid using excessive water, as this can seep into the wood and cause warping or staining. Opt for a microfibre mop, which is gentle on the wood and effective in lifting grime.

When cleaning your wood flooring, steer clear of harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, which can strip the finish and damage the wood. Stick to products specifically designed for wood floors, and always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Make sure that your staff are knowledgeable about proper wood floor maintenance and follow your routines.

Spills are inevitable in a restaurant, but how you manage them can make all the difference. Wipe up any liquid spills immediately to prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. For sticky substances, use a damp cloth with a mild cleaner, ensuring the area is dried thoroughly afterwards to prevent slips.

Maintaining restaurant wood flooring

Regular maintenance goes beyond daily cleaning; but your first consideration must be for what story you want your wood floor to tell if you want to convey a worn, well-used vibe that gives an air of permanence.  Then your wood floor will gain a patina in accordance to its usage over time. A benefit here is that your maintenance cycles would differ to that of someone wanting to keep a fresh and refined look. When considering wood types and finishes, please talk to us about the intended look from day one, as well as the outlook for the floor in two years, ten years, and so on. We can provide detailed insights on what to use and when.

If you want your floor to look new throughout most of its service life, then it’s wise to schedule periodic professional cleaning to remove deep-seated dirt and restore the wood’s shine. Finishes can have restorative maintenance coats applied to bolster finishes and hide lighter scratches.  

However, if you want that more heritage patina to come through, simply continue with good cleaning and the floor will age according to its exposure.

In either case, wood is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, which can cause it to expand or contract. To minimise this, try to maintain a consistent indoor climate. Use a dehumidifier in the summer to reduce excess moisture in the air and a humidifier in the winter to prevent the wood from drying out and cracking.

Investing in protective measures can significantly prolong the life of your wood flooring. Place doormats at entrances to catch dirt and moisture before they reach the floor. In high-traffic areas, consider using rugs or runners to provide an additional layer of protection. Always ensure that these coverings have non-slip backings to prevent accidents.

Furniture can also damage wood flooring. Attach felt pads to the legs of chairs and tables to prevent scratches when they are moved. Regularly check these pads and replace them as needed. We have a range of felt pads that can be supplied with your order to ensure protection from day one.

Perform regular inspections of your wood flooring to catch any potential problems early. Look for signs of wear, such as scratches, dents, or discolouration. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from becoming more serious and costly to repair.

By following these tips, you can maintain and extend the life of your restaurant’s wood flooring, keeping it looking its best. Investing time and effort into proper care will ensure that your wood flooring remains a stunning feature of your restaurant for years to come. Are you looking to upgrade your restaurant flooring? Discover the perfect flooring for your restaurant or hospitality venue from The Solid Wood Flooring Company.