Business flooring may seem difficult to choose. The key in how to choose flooring is to break your options down by each area’s need. Your entryway, work space, kitchen, storage, and bathrooms may all require different types of flooring. Some areas may require impressive flooring, while others are better suited for practical options. Making an aesthetic impression in your entryway should take priority over especially fancy bathrooms, for instance. Break things down by area and priority, and you can start asking some more specific questions.
What first impression are we giving?
Your entryway is the first impression customers and clients have for your business. It also helps set the attitude for your employees every time they enter your business space. Business flooring varies by your industry, but it should generally be moisture resistant and easy to clean. People will track sand, dirt, grit, mud, and water in all the time. Solutions may vary from tile to concrete to vinyl depending on the exact aesthetic you want to communicate. Even wood works for many commercial spaces.
How much foot traffic will you see?
Many types of business flooring come with different ratings. Commercial carpet and tile both have durability ratings measured by Texture Appearance Retention Rating. In other words, how well will those floors retain their look under traffic. Ratings include: moderate, heavy, and severe. A higher rating means the floor will stand up to heavier foot traffic. For vinyl options, the durability has more to do with the thickness of its wear layer.
Remember to factor in elements like sound as well. A wood or tile floor in an office environment may cause distracting footstep noises all day long, for instance.
Where will employees spill?
No matter how careful and responsible your employees are, spills are inevitable. Lunch rooms, kitchens, and cafeterias require flooring that’s easy to clean. Vinyl tile or plank is a good choice for rooms like this. It cleans easily and won’t absorb stains. Installation is easy and it looks good while keeping a low price. It’s also very durable, and should you ever have to replace a tile, this is done easily.
What is your maintenance budget?
You can break any of these guidelines if you’re sure you can handle the increased demands. If your heart’s set on an out-of-the-box solution, run with it! It can certainly set you apart. Just make sure it’s feasible. Flooring solutions that retain dirt, easily stain, or are worn out more quickly will demand more extensive cleaning and more frequent replacement.
Look for creative solutions! Carpet tile may be a good alternative to carpet, for instance. Luxury vinyl tile that emulates wood may be a better solution than hardwood. The most important element in how to choose flooring is to consult an expert in business flooring. This helps you get the look you want without breaking the bank.