Commercial Spaces: Ideal Flooring Options
Are you an entrepreneur, business person or architect who has no idea of what kind of flooring you should choose for your offices? Find out which types of flooring are ideal for commercial spaces.
Linoleum
Made with natural materials such as linseed oil, resin, limestone and mineral pigments, all on a jute base, linoleum has earned its reputation of being a “green flooring.”It is also a naturally antibacterial, biodegradable, insulating material that is resistant to stains caused by alcohol-based disinfecting products. Its wear layer is durable and resistant to sagging and abrasion. Linoleum is ideal for high-traffic areas and relatively heavy rolling loads. These tiles are available in a width of two metres (6’ 6’’) with varied thicknesses in several styles.
Seamless vinyl
This material is made of one or more layers of PVC. It is the vinyl itself that gives the finish, not a printed film layer. It is very popular for hospitals, retirement homes and schools due to its antibacterial characteristics, and is durable, low maintenance, stain resistant and versatile. Its high level of resistance to nicks and abrasion make it an ideal choice for high traffic areas. As well, seamless vinyl does not require waxing, only dry polishing, making it that much easier to care for.
Vinyl planks and tiles
Highly resistant, easy to install, repair and maintain, this flooring is often used in commercial contexts, as individual planks or tiles that imitate hardwood or ceramic tiles. This type of flooring allows for flexibility due to its wide range of sizes and formats. It is therefore possible to create a unique floor that will set you apart from the rest. Its resistance to scratches as well as stains caused by alcohol-based disinfectants facilitates its maintenance and reduces the time required to clean it. The planks and tiles provide lasting performance when faced with heavy traffic and rolling loads.
Porcelain tiles
Porcelain tiles are also perfect for commercial spaces. More robust and durable than ceramic tiles, they are less likely to break. Depending on their durability rating, specifically their PEI level, porcelain tiles can be used in restaurant kitchens, stores and even airports. There is an endless number of varieties, sizes and finishes available, making them a popular choice, as does their low maintenance. However, their installation can be longer and more costly than other types of flooring suitable for commercial spaces.
Rubber
Ideal for high traffic areas, rubber is very resistant. No wonder than it is often found in busy places such as airports. Thanks to the vulcanisation process during its manufacture, the rubber becomes very elastic and has the ability to recover its original shape. Its shock-absorbing and noise-reducing properties with heavy falling objects make it an ideal choice for training centres and gyms.
Carpet tiles
This flooring offers performance, strength, design and versatility. Modular carpet tiles are recommended for corporate, commercial and office floors, but they are also suitable for almost any room in the home. In this case, carpeting doesn’t equal outdated, since carpet tiles are on trend. They are now available in several styles and colours so you can create a unique look. The ease of their installation, replacement and maintenance make carpet tiles an outstanding choice.
All in all, despite what we may think, there are as many choices of flooring for commercial spaces as there are for residential spaces. In order to know what type of flooring is ideal for your situation, define your needs and above all, talk to one of our representatives. They will be able help you decide exactly what you need.
The photos used for this article were taken at Au bureau.co in Châteauguay following the renovation project of the old caisse populaire for the creation of this new coworking space. The project was carried out in the fall of 2019 and supervised at Lanctôt by Marcel Aubé, commercial sales representative.