Choosing the perfect construction materials for your flooring requires precise planning with your contractors. Building owners end up with incorrect flooring because they thought any type could fit on the space. Selecting the wrong commercial flooring can cause problems and inconveniences that might put business operations to a halt.
There are several factors to consider when choosing the type of flooring, such as durability, longevity, and appeal. If the flooring you chose doesn’t have two or all of these factors, you will regret it in the long run. There are at least five commercial flooring types you need to know about that each has its pros and cons. Keep in mind their characteristics to help you with decision-making.
1. Carpet Flooring
One well-known flooring that you will find in many commercial buildings is carpet flooring. They provide a soft cushion that doesn’t create too much sound, making it the perfect alternative for production floors and other areas that need complete quietness. The only downside with carpet flooring is that it’s expensive. But if your commercial building has more budget, you should have no problems with carpet flooring.
Building owners prefer carpet flooring because contractors can install them without a problem. They can install it as quickly as possible since it doesn’t involve multiple complicated processes to finish it. Since contractors can install them quickly, they can replace them if a portion of the carpet wears out.
Some carpet flooring manufacturers are developing water-resistant and industrial-strength carpet flooring, making it the best option for areas within your building that experiences heavy foot traffic. Your cleaners and maintenance personnel don’t have to worry about coffee spills and damage to the carpet. You can add floor access doors and panels to protect your building components effectively.Â
2. Epoxy Flooring Systems
The second flooring suitable for commercial buildings and establishments is the epoxy flooring system. If you want high strength and overall durability, you can get that with epoxy flooring. They work best in warehouses, healthcare offices, and other buildings that want a clean look. It can also withstand chemical spills and heavy foot traffic because of its epoxy coating.
You can acquire the many benefits it can provide when your flooring contractors install it correctly. A proper installation requires them to clean the concrete and patch cracks with urethane before applying the epoxy coating. If they apply the coating before the preparation phase, the epoxy will chip or peel easily. Additionally, your cleaning personnel must sweep and deep clean the epoxy flooring frequently to keep it looking new and appealing.
3. Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) Flooring
Most commercial buildings with common areas like cafeterias need LVT flooring because of their resilient material and excellent finish. It has three layers: a vinyl base layer to bear dimensional stability, a digital graphic film that can imitate other flooring material, and the exterior wear layer.
The three components give the LVT its signature durability that can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it the suitable flooring for common areas within a commercial building. You have a wide variety of designs that can mimic any flooring you want, ensuring that it’ll fit well with other elements within the area.
4. Quarry Tile Flooring
Your commercial kitchen will always experience a large volume of foot traffic due to customers and your staff walking around in the kitchen. You have to provide suitable quality flooring that can withstand the enormous foot traffic that the kitchen experiences. Luckily, you can choose quarry tile flooring for that area.
Many restaurant owners consider it standard flooring because it’s cheaper and offers the same qualities as porcelain tile flooring, which similarly provides a longer lifespan with minimal maintenance. Quarry tile flooring can last longer than porcelain tile when contractors install it correctly.
The installation process requires the use of thin-set adhesives and epoxy grout. Remember that your flooring contractors can use alternatives besides epoxy grout, but it won’t hold out against grease buildup, hot water spills, or heavy foot traffic. You can keep quarry tile flooring looking excellent and durable through constant maintenance and cleaning. Your kitchen staff should clean the floors after every opening to preserve its benefits.
5. Terrazzo Flooring
If you want LEED-friendly and upscale flooring for your commercial building, terrazzo flooring will suit your needs. It has the highest durability of other flooring materials since manufacturers create it with an epoxy resin mixed with recycled or granite glass, cement matrix, or other aggregates.
Commercial buildings utilize the terrazzo flooring by placing logos and designs on it. If your goal is to achieve a visually appealing walkway and impress people, consider terrazzo flooring. Due to its higher price, you might have to make some adjustments to your budget.Â
Your commercial flooring can go a long way when deciding which one can bring out the best results. Always plan and discuss with your flooring contractors about everything that goes into choosing the flooring material.
