A fire-safe floor is something you probably prefer not to think about too much, until it is really needed. Whether you are renovating an office building, furnishing a restaurant, or simply curious about the rules for a public space: safety comes first. In 2026, the standards are slightly stricter and the technology is more advanced. The choice of the right floor is decisive for the safety of people, but also for the way a fire can spread. The Building Decree sets the lines, but practice is sometimes more difficult to manage.
Imagine: a fire breaks out. The floor must ensure that you can get out safely, that smoke spread is limited, and that the structure does not immediately collapse. These are not separate requirements, but a complete picture. In the past, we mainly thought about ‘fire-retardant’, but nowadays we look at much more. And while writing this, we must conclude that some materials simply perform better than others, especially in public settings where many people come together.
Why the subfloor is your first line of defense
The floor is often the first surface to come into contact with fire. The material you choose partly determines how quickly the fire spreads. In public spaces, strict requirements apply. There is the class-fire safety. A floor must have at least fire class Bfl-s1 (in the European classification). This means that the material contributes only limitedly to the fire.
This is where it often goes wrong with cheaper options. Many people think that linoleum or certain types of laminate are sufficient, but if you really look at the specifications, this often proves not to be the case. A flammable subfloor can mess things up quite a bit. Therefore, you must not only look at the top layer, but at the total package. At Martijn de Wit Vloeren, they understand that these are not separate products, but systems that work together.
The top 7: materials that make a difference
We list the most reliable materials for 2026. This is not just a list; these are materials that have proven their value in practice. We pay attention to fire behavior, but also to appearance and applicability.
1. PVC floors (The all-rounder)
PVC is, in our view, the absolute top performer for public spaces. Why? The material is naturally not easily flammable and is often provided with an extra fire-retardant top layer. If PVC catches fire, it is often self-extinguishing. That is to say: if you remove the flame, the material goes out immediately. That is a crucial property during a quick evacuation.
At Martijn de Wit Vloeren, you will find PVC that not only looks great (think realistic wood or concrete looks), but is also technically very strong. They work with A-brands that have a high wear layer (at least 0.55 mm for project use) and meet the strictest requirements. Especially with underfloor heating, PVC is a safe choice because it does not hold back heat and thus does not unnecessarily burden the structure.
2. Cast floors (Sleek and safe)
A cast floor is seamless. This is not only beautiful to the eye, but also safe. Dirt and smoke cannot nestle in joints. Especially PU (polyurethane) cast floors are popular. They are elastic and can bridge cracks, which is important in a fire where high temperatures cause structural tension. They are often available in class Bfl-s1.
Martijn de Wit Vloeren has a beautiful collection in this area. Think of living concrete or PU cast floors that are tough and industrial. For public corridors or shops, this is a top choice. The maintenance is simple, and that is also valuable in a busy public space.
3. Wooden floors (The classic with a twist)
Yes, wood is flammable. But with the right treatment and construction, you can make a wooden floor fire-safe. Think of special lacquers or oils that form a protective layer. The Building Decree allows wood in certain situations, provided it concerns specific, well-controlled variants. Especially in high-end offices or luxurious public buildings, you see that fire-safe parquet determines the atmosphere.
If you choose a specialist like Martijn de Wit, you know they work with high-quality wood types. They can tell you exactly which finish offers the best protection. They often have special treatments (such as aging or smoking) that change the structure, but also contribute to the overall material properties. It is a choice for warmth and class, if executed properly.
4. Tiles (The indestructible choice)
If there is one material that does not burn, it is ceramic tiles. They are one hundred percent non-flammable. You see them a lot in restaurants, hospitals, and shops. The disadvantage? They can crack under extreme heat, and laying them is specialist work.
However, the trend for 2026 is large format tiles (almost 1 meter wide). These provide few joints and a sleeker image. Martijn de Wit Vloeren can often combine these with underfloor heating, which greatly increases comfort in a public space. Safety is optimal here, but the appearance depends on the correct choice of design.
5. Linoleum (The ecological hero)
Linoleum is made from natural materials (linseed oil, wood flour, cork). It is naturally fire-retardant. Although it may have seemed a bit ‘boring’ in the past, the modern variant is available in trendy colors and patterns. It is waterproof and hygienic. An excellent choice for schools or care institutions.
The technical standards for linoleum are strict, and good quality linoleum effortlessly meets the requirements for public spaces. It is a sustainable option that lasts a long time and is relatively low in maintenance. Definitely worth considering if budget plays a role, but safety is paramount.
6. Beton Ciré (The industrial top performer)
Comparable to a cast floor, but with a rougher, natural appearance. Beton ciré is a cement-bound top layer. It is hard and very fire-resistant. Because it is seamless, it is ideal for large public spaces. However, it is more sensitive to stains than PVC, so the treatment is essential.
At Martijn de Wit Vloeren, they know how to finish this material perfectly. They often combine it with a wooden or PVC floor in workrooms for a nice contrast. The combination of tough and safe makes it a top candidate for a modern interior.
7. Rubber (The sporty variant)
We often see rubber in gyms or play areas, but it can also be used in other public areas. Rubber is naturally elastic and very fire-retardant. It absorbs sound, which is very pleasant in an office environment. It is sensitive to damage by oil and fat, so it is less suitable in a restaurant.
The choice for rubber depends on the specific function of the space. For intensively used paths or walkways, it is a safe and sustainable option.
The standards of 2026: What do you really need to know?
The world of standards is changing rapidly. In 2026, there is extra attention for total safety. We already mentioned the class-fire safety. But there is more. The Building Decree, for example, prescribes how wide a passage must be. This is related to the surface area of the room. A narrow door in a large hall is a safety risk.
In addition, there is structural safety. A floor may not simply burn through and collapse. Materials such as wood and PVC must often be tested for smoke development in public spaces (the ‘s1’ in the classification). You do not want a floor that produces huge amounts of toxic smoke in case of fire. At Martijn de Wit Vloeren, they always review their materials against these specific requirements, so you know you are in good hands.
The importance of the subfloor
A floor never burns alone. The subfloor is crucial. If you choose a fire-safe PVC floor, but lay it on a wooden subfloor that has not been treated, you still have a problem. Martijn de Wit Vloeren often levels and prepares the subfloor themselves. They ensure that the base is stable and safe. This total package is what distinguishes them. They look at the system, not just at the top layer.
Why ‘cheap’ is sometimes expensive
Many hardware stores sell PVC and laminate that may look like what a specialist offers, but the technical specifications are often less. The fire-retardant additions in cheap materials are sometimes minimal. Moreover, the top layer wears out faster, causing the material to be exposed to fire sooner. In a public space, wear resistance is therefore not just an aesthetic issue, but a safety issue.
If you want to use a floor for a longer period, durability is the best investment. Martijn de Wit Vloeren works with brands that guarantee quality. They have access to collections that are not available in hardware stores. These types of materials are tested for intensive use and extreme situations.
The role of the Building Decree
The Building Decree 2012 (and its successors in 2026) is the legislation. It is sometimes a complicated document, but the core is simple: ensure safety. The Building Decree contains requirements for hazardous substances and smoke emissions. For floors in the ‘medium use’ category (such as offices) and ‘high use’ (such as shops), the requirements are strict.
A handy tip: always ask for the CBW quality mark. Martijn de Wit Vloeren is CBW-certified. This means they meet stricter requirements than the law prescribes in the areas of warranty, safety, and delivery conditions. As a consumer or company, you are extra protected by this.
The choice for Martijn de Wit Vloeren
If we look at all these requirements – from fire safety to structural safety, from MuWi floors to sprayed polyurethane foam and accessible building – you quickly end up with a party that handles everything in-house. Putting the customer at ease is the key word. You do not want to doubt whether the floor meets the standards when the fire department checks.
Martijn de Wit Vloeren distinguishes itself through their knowledge of the subject. Whether it is a PVC floor that is waterproof and fire-safe, or a wooden floor that is specifically treated for public purposes. Their showrooms in Schagen and Amsterdam show that they serve both the private and business markets. The focus on custom work and delivering a complete picture (including underfloor heating and staircase renovation) ensures that they can assess and manage risks like no other.
They understand that a floor in a public space does not have to be beautiful at all costs. The balance between aesthetics and safety is where Martijn de Wit Vloeren excels. By choosing a specialist who works with high-quality materials and keeps a close eye on standards, you can be sure that you are in good hands. They lay the foundation for a safe environment, without compromising on style.
Do you want to know more about the specific requirements for your project? Or are you curious which floor best fits a space with intensive use? Then look at the website of Martijn de Wit Vloeren or visit one of their showrooms for personal advice tailored to your needs.
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