It might be the last thing on your mind when setting up your new business but your choice in flooring is an important investment that can’t simply be ignored. The right commercial flooring blends aesthetics with functionality. As such, one flooring material likely won’t work for your whole office—what works in a lobby won’t necessarily work in your office kitchen. Choosing flooring is far more complicated than just finding the best-looking product, though. Several other factors—moisture, durability, costs and more—greatly influence a decision. Here are some tips that will help you select the right commercial flooring for your business, regardless of the industry.
When considering the right flooring for your commercial space, the first thing to consider is the usage. Different spaces have different functional requirements for their flooring. In the commercial sector, cost and durability are often the main factors. Style and design also play an important role. Certain types of flooring are more inviting, absorb sound for a quiet environment and even convey a feeling about your company’s style and values. Additionally, if your business thrives on your image reflecting the latest trends, your floor will need to be replaced more often. Remember that your flooring can be seen as a reflection of your business and what it stands for.
Wood is a classic look that never goes out of style. It’s durable, easy to maintain with regular care and, with the right finish, can last a long time. A high-traffic office that wants to appear professional, sleek and modern might want to consider hardwood flooring. It also can create a contemporary atmosphere for any store. If you’re going green, engineered hardwood is an environmentally friendly alternative to real hardwood flooring and offers virtually the same durability and design benefits. Nail-down solid hardwood and engineered wood floors are best installed by pros. Note that hardwood flooring can be vulnerable to moisture and humidity, as well as dents and scratches. Therefore, it’s important to talk to a professional to determine how to customize your floor for your business.
Ceramic tile offers warmth and beauty, as well as durability, and provides plenty of styles and colors to choose from. It’s a good choice in large commercial areas, industrial stores or company break rooms as it’s waterproof, abrasion resistant and easy to clean. Tiles can be used for high-traffic areas but may not be comfortable for employees or customers to stand on for long periods of time. Grout lines also require constant maintenance. If you love the look of tile but are worried about the drawbacks of covering an entire floor with it, a stone medallion could be the perfect solution. You can choose a more fitting flooring option and incorporate the design and look of tile on a smaller scale for maximum impact.
If you’re looking for insulation from noises, consider carpet or carpet tiles. It also provides a softer surface for those who spend large portions of the day on their feet and is available in a huge range of styles, colors and constructions. Luxurious carpet could be good in an upscale boutique or corporate boardroom as it contributes to the glamorous experience clients expect. It may also be a good choice for an upscale restaurant in terms of aesthetic and its ability to minimize noise. Carpet does need to be vacuumed daily and cleaned regularly. However, with carpet tiles, you have the ability to replace stained or damaged ones easier than with a wall-to-wall style. Carpet tiles offer new, modern, innovative designs and are typically used in office environments, schools and waiting rooms.
Ideal for high-traffic areas, rubber flooring is durable, heat/water/slip-resistant and an easy-care flooring material. It’s also available in a variety of colors and pattern options and comfortable to walk and stand on daily. Rubber is a great, eco-friendly option for an open-concept office space, however, it is considered a more expensive commercial flooring option even though it doesn’t offer the same high-end look as other options. People can also be sensitive to the smell.
Another low-maintenance, durable option is vinyl flooring which, like rubber, is ideal for high-traffic areas. It can be treated to resist scratches and stains and for slip-resistance. Unlike rubber, as vinyl contains PVC, it can sometimes be considered a health and environmental hazard in both the production and disposal stages. It’s also incredibly difficult to remove if you ever want to update your floors. Vinyl composite tiles are commonly found in hospitals, medical centers, offices, retail spaces, commercial outlets, salons and spas, though, as they work great in rooms that are prone to moisture problems and are softer underfoot.
When you select flooring that’s sturdy, comfortable, functional and beautiful, it has lasting effects on your overall business. Your employees will feel like the space is inviting and just right for getting the job done and your customers or clients will feel welcomed when they enter your business. Give the experts at Cubix, Inc. a call today to schedule a consultation and go over all of your different flooring options.
Travis Owens, the President of Cubix, Inc., has dedicated over 18 years to refining and leading the premier leader for commercial flooring services in Florida. Before taking the helm as President, Travis excelled as the Director of Operations, solidifying his reputation as an industry trailblazer in commercial flooring consulting and solutions. A proud veteran, Travis honorably served 8 years in the Marines, exemplifying his commitment and discipline in all endeavors. Residing in Orlando with his family, he also indulges in his passion for culinary spices.
