Tiles should be of a heavy-duty type and of a thickness recommended by the manufacturer as suitable for use in a commercial kitchen environment. Epoxy grouting should be specified. Sheet Wall Cladding Sheet wall cladding materials designed specifically for use in catering environments are available. The materials are generally more expensive than ceramic tiling but require less substrate treatment and can be fixed very quickly if the program of works dictates. Sheet finishes are generally easier to clean than tiling but are subject to impact damage and damaged areas are difficult to repair.
Some materials are vulnerable to damage from high temperatures.
Most patent system result in a void being created between the panel and the substrate which if not sealed with attention to detail can harbor insects and vermin. The mastic joint sealants used with most systems have a limited life expectancy. These finishes are generally not considered viable for use in food processing areas except for the finishing of woodwork. Washable paint finishes may be considered for application in minor support areas which are not susceptible to impact damage and which are not used for food processing. Plastic Paints Special heavy-duty paint finishes exist as an option for use in areas where the level of duty is low.