Choosing the best flooring for your commercial premises

Date posted: 15/07/16

If you are a business owner or manager and are thinking about replacing your premises’ flooring, you might be wondering what to opt for. The most popular commercial flooring types all have their own unique advantages and disadvantages; therefore, the ultimate choice will depend on your budget and business requirements.

Carpet tiles

Carpet tiles have fallen out of fashion somewhat in recent years; however, they are still a practical and durable choice for many commercial offices, as they are hardwearing and are easy to replace if they get damaged or stained. Rather than having to replace an entire roll of carpet, it is quick and easy to remove the affected tile(s). Carpet tiles are also popular, as they muffle sound. While hard surfaces, such as wood, can be noisy to walk on, or move furniture across, carpet helps to keep your workplace quiet and productive.

Wood

Wood is a popular choice for contemporary businesses and although it has never entirely gone out of fashion, it has definitely experienced a resurgence in recent years. Hardwood is extremely durable and can last for decades if looked after correctly. It does need some specialist care, however, and might not be the best choice for very busy premises or those with frequent splashes or spills. It can also be considerably more expensive than other options and might not be suitable for premises that experience very heavy foot traffic from a wide range of footwear.

Laminate flooring

Laminates are a great alternative to hardwood, enabling you to achieve the look and feel of the real thing at a fraction of the price. In addition to being more affordable, they can be purchased in different designs, enabling you to create any look you want. They are less suited to offices, as they can be noisy to walk on and the sound of furniture or other heavy items being moved across laminate flooring can be harsh and unpleasant; however, laminate is a great option for shops or leisure establishments.

Vinyl flooring

Vinyl is often more affordable than the other main options and can be extremely hardwearing. It is also easy to clean and is a hygienic option for any businesses where this is a priority. The toughest vinyls available can withstand a great deal of foot traffic, while spills can be easily wiped up. Vinyl is a great choice for health and fitness or medical establishments and will not cling onto dust, dirt or debris.