It has been said that it takes us one tenth of a second to judge someone or something and develop our first impression. Considering how minute that amount of time is, it becomes clear that our impressions are largely based on visual cues. So, everything that can be seen matters. Store fronts are shoppers’ first introduction to the store. Thus, it is crucial that the store front gives not only a positive impression, but also an inviting impression. You want shoppers to enter, stay, and purchase.
Besides obvious visual cues like signage, manikins, display cases, paint scheme, lighting, etc., commercial flooring is a very subtle, but powerful and integral aspect of all the components that contribute to giving a first impression that can either say, “Welcome!” or “Move along.” All things considered, there is no formula that will tell you exactly which flooring to choose, but there is a platter of options for you to choose from, guaranteeing that you will be more than satisfied.
All choices will be based on the type of store and the product being sold in that store. The flooring product calls for a certain ambience, which can be anywhere between warm and subdued and metallic and striking.
Within the realm of hard flooring, the options are hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile and stone. Dark hardwood flooring, like cherry wood and mahogany, will likely accomplish a warmer atmosphere. This has become popular in stores like Abercrombie and Fitch and Pier 1 Imports because it gives an organic impression to shoppers because of its natural tones. Tile and stone offer practical durability with a variety of visual appeals. Tiles can be customized to achieve many looks like marble and stone, thus providing a durable and affordable option. Stone can be cut into a variety of shapes and sizes to be installed in designs that reflect the brand your store represents. Laminate and vinyl flooring offer the visual aesthetics of hardwood, stone, or tile flooring at a lower cost.
Within the realm of soft flooring, the options include various forms of carpeting like carpet tiling, broadloom, Berber, and patterned carpeting. The selection of carpeting must be durable and easily maintained. Since store owners usually expect to replace flooring after it has been installed for five years, it would be prudent to take special care in deciding what type of carpeting to install if indeed carpeting is the preferred flooring. Carpet tile is a noteworthy choice because of its easy maintenance. It is possible to replace one or more tiles of the carpet in the event of any damage to the carpet. This bypasses the hassle of replacing the carpeting for an entire area and cuts down on costs drastically. Patterned carpeting allows for customized dynamic flooring.
Aside from the aesthetics, store front flooring installation is an important component. Store front flooring should beckon shoppers to enter the store and give it a chance. Flooring organizes the space, defines paths of circulation and creates merchandising zones. It helps set the tone and reinforces the brand.
Specializing in residential and commercial flooring installations, including carpet installation, tile installation and hardwood installation, we offer a wide variety of products from leading manufacturers, including Anderson, Armstrong, Fabrica, Mohawk and Shaw, to name a few. These brands carry products that meet the most rigorous challenges the retail environment faces: durability and flexibility for high-traffic areas.
No matter what your preferences are, it is wise to consult with a flooring expert before making any decisions. Call (954) 321-5721 to speak with an East Coast Flooring expert about your options.