After constructing lots of of meals vans at Legion Meals Vehicles, I can let you know that flooring isn’t precisely what will get folks enthusiastic about their new cellular kitchen. However right here’s the factor – your selection of flooring materials could make the distinction between a profitable operation and a upkeep nightmare. We’ve seen all of it, and we’re right here to share what actually works.
Why Your Flooring Alternative Issues
Your meals truck’s flooring takes a beating each single day. We’re speaking about sizzling oil splashes, fixed foot site visitors, heavy gear actions, temperature swings, and infinite cleansing cycles. The suitable flooring doesn’t simply look good – it retains your workers secure, meets well being division necessities, and stands as much as years of robust use.
Industrial-Grade Vinyl
Let’s begin with what’s turn out to be our go-to advice for a lot of meals truck house owners: commercial-grade vinyl flooring. Now, once we say commercial-grade vinyl, we’re not speaking concerning the stuff you’d get at your native dwelling enchancment retailer. We’re speaking about heavy-duty, slip-resistant vinyl that’s particularly designed for industrial kitchens.
What makes industrial vinyl so nice? For starters, it’s extremely sturdy whereas being comparatively light-weight – a vital consideration while you’re constructing a cellular kitchen. It’s additionally seamless when correctly put in, which implies no cracks or crevices the place micro organism can conceal. The fabric is of course water resistant and may deal with temperature fluctuations with out warping or degrading.
Maybe most significantly, it’s snug to face on for lengthy intervals. Your workers will thanks after a busy service when their ft and backs aren’t aching from standing on an excessively laborious floor.
Stainless Metal Diamond Plate
If you wish to go old fashioned with one thing just about indestructible, stainless-steel diamond plate is your reply. We frequently suggest this for vans that cope with extraordinarily excessive volumes or notably harsh circumstances.
The professionals are apparent – it’s extremely sturdy, fully waterproof, and virtually not possible to break. The diamond sample supplies glorious slip resistance, and it’s about as sanitary as you may get. Cleansing is a breeze, and well being inspectors find it irresistible.
Nevertheless, there are some drawbacks. It’s heavier than vinyl, which might affect your truck’s gas effectivity and payload capability. It’s additionally costlier upfront, and whereas the slip resistance is nice, it may be a bit harsh on the ft throughout lengthy shifts. Some operators select to make use of anti-fatigue mats in key work areas to handle this situation.
Epoxy Flooring
Right here’s an possibility that’s gained recognition in recent times: epoxy flooring methods. When correctly put in, epoxy creates a seamless, extraordinarily sturdy floor that may deal with absolutely anything you throw at it.
The great thing about epoxy is its versatility. Totally different textures could be created for various areas of your truck – extra aggressive non-slip properties close to cooking areas, as an example, whereas conserving it smoother in dry storage areas. It will also be personalized with completely different colours and patterns, although most of our purchasers follow sensible, impartial tones.
The principle problem with epoxy is set up. The method requires particular temperature and humidity circumstances, and correct floor preparation is totally essential. Get it mistaken, and also you’ll be taking a look at repairs sooner somewhat than later. That’s why we insist on having our skilled crew deal with the set up.
Aluminum Diamond Plate
Aluminum diamond plate provides lots of the similar advantages as stainless-steel however with one vital benefit: it’s significantly lighter. This could make an actual distinction in your truck’s gas effectivity and total weight distribution.
The trade-off is that aluminum isn’t fairly as sturdy as stainless-steel, and it may be extra prone to corrosion if not correctly maintained. Nevertheless, with common cleansing and care, it might nonetheless present years of dependable service.
Composite Supplies
The most recent gamers within the meals truck flooring recreation are composite supplies. These engineered merchandise mix the most effective properties of varied supplies to create surfaces which can be sturdy, light-weight, and simple to keep up.
Trendy composites can supply glorious slip resistance and sturdiness whereas being lighter than conventional supplies. Some even embody antimicrobial properties, which is a pleasant bonus for meals service purposes. The principle disadvantage? They’re sometimes costlier than different choices, although the long-term advantages usually justify the funding.
Set up Issues
No matter which materials you select, correct set up is totally crucial. This isn’t a DIY mission – you want skilled professionals who perceive the distinctive challenges of meals truck flooring set up.
Some key issues embody creating correct slopes for drainage, making certain waterproof seals round edges and gear mounts, and accounting for thermal enlargement and contraction. Bear in mind, your truck will expertise vital temperature modifications all through the day and seasons.
Upkeep Ideas
The most effective flooring on the planet gained’t final in case you don’t deal with it. Common upkeep is essential for any flooring materials. Clear spills instantly, use acceptable cleansing merchandise in your particular flooring sort, and tackle any injury promptly earlier than it turns into a much bigger downside.
For vinyl and epoxy flooring, keep away from harsh chemical substances that may break down the floor. For steel flooring, look ahead to any indicators of corrosion and tackle them instantly. And no matter your flooring sort, be sure your cleansing routine complies with well being division necessities.
Making Your Determination
When selecting your meals truck’s flooring, contemplate these elements: your menu (and sure spills), your local weather, your funds (each preliminary and long-term), and your upkeep capabilities. Don’t neglect to issue within the weight of various choices and the way they could have an effect on your truck’s efficiency.
Legion Meals Truck is Right here to Help
Whereas flooring won’t be probably the most thrilling a part of your meals truck construct, getting it proper is essential in your long-term success. Take the time to weigh your choices and don’t be afraid to put money into high quality supplies {and professional} set up.
Need assistance constructing your dream meals truck? Contact Legion Meals Vehicles at this time. We’ll enable you to consider your choices and provide you with a construct in your particular wants.
