How Much Does a Mustard Spill Cost West Des Moines Schools?

West Des Moines school board members last week approved a $95,365 upgrade in the material used for the floor in the new Valley High School cafeteria so it can combat mustard stains.

The Des Moines Register reported the board voted Friday to spend the extra money because the polished concrete that was originally proposed cannot withstand mustard stains, according to contractors.

“It would be cheaper to ban mustard,” board member Jill Hansen was quoted as saying in the newspaper story.

The polished concrete flooring has been used in other West Des Moines schools in the past, but never in a cafeteria, said Eric Simon, a senior project manager with Weitz Company, which is overseeing the Valley renovations.

Over the summer, workers tested the flooring’s resistance to mustard, mayonnaise, ketchup and fruit drink and found that mustard eroded the sealant and discolored the flooring.

Board members expressed frustration Friday about the late notice to the problem.

“This is something that’s been known about since July and this is the first time we’re hearing about it with 24 hours notice,” board member Andi Lipman told the Register.

Contractors recommended upgrading to a vinyl tile that is more stain resistant and easier to maintain.

The vinyl tile approved will cost about $133,500 to purchase and install, but the district will save about $38,000 in concrete costs, bringing the total change to around $95,500.

The board ultimately agreed to the new flooring by a 5-0 vote.