Types of
COMMERCIAL
FLOORING
Anti-Static Flooring
Anti-static flooring is specifically designed flooring that works to prevent the buildup of static electricity to protect equipment from damage. Used in data centers, clean-rooms, healthcare facilities and other areas with sensitive equipment, its important to do your research on your project to determine if anti-static is a feature you need from your flooring. Here are some key features of anti-static flooring for you to consider:
- How It Works: Anti-static flooring has a chemical additive or a coating on the finish to helps to dissipate static across the surface. Typically, it is made from materials like carbon fibers which work to move static charges from people to the ground.
- Applications: Anti-static flooring can be used in many places, but is typically found in areas with sensitive equipment. This can include data centers, healthcare facilities, cleanrooms, manufacturing environments and aviation.
- Why is Important: Anti-static flooring is primarily used to protect equipment. Equipment with sensitive electronic circuitry can be damaged by static. Anti-static flooring is meant to protect this equipment from electrostatic discharge caused by the friction created by walking across a floor.
- Installation: The kind of installation will depend on the kind of flooring you choose. The anti-static feature is available in a wide-range of flooring types, so you can always find what you’re looking for.
Broadloom Carpet
Commercial Broadloom carpet is a wall-to-wall carpet that is typically used in commercial spaces, such as offices, conference rooms, and hotel rooms. Rolls are typically sold is rolls that are 12-15 feet wide. Broadloom carpet comes in a variety of pattern and colors with several backing options, depending on application. It most cases, it can be glued down or stretched in. Below are some common characteristics of commercial broadloom.
- Appearance: Due to the wide variety color and pattern options, broadloom carpet can be used to create a unique look with. From large elaborate designs, or simpler outside boarders, commercial broadloom is a great option for most commercial spaces.
- Installation: There are two application options for commercial broadloom carpet. It can be stretched in over commercial carpet padding, or glued directly to the subfloor. Application will depend on both the type of backing selected and the area it is being installed in.
- Comfort: Commercial broadloom is typically softer and plusher than carpet tile, and can be purchased with different types of backing depending on your needs. Installation over padding will provide even more comfort.
- Cost: Broadloom carpet is typically a more cost-effective option than other commercial options. It is a great budget-friendly option for your commercial project.
- Durability – Commercial broadloom carpet is typically made with a lower cute pile, which allows for more durability. With a thickness between ¼-1/2 inch, commercial broadloom is created to withstand more foot-traffic.
- Maintenance: Commercial broadloom carpet is a great low maintenance option. Once installed, it does not require much more than regularly cleaning.
Carpet Tile
Commercial carpet planks are similar to carpet tiles, but typically come in longer sizes, which allows for a more creative look. Designed to be more durable, stain resistant and easy to care for, commercial carpet plank is a great option for high traffic areas. The plank style also allows for an easier install, and simpler repairs. Carpet planks can be installed directly to the subfloor with adhesive, or may use adhesive sticker that allows the installer to connect the tiles together and also secure to the floor. Installation application will depend on the product.
Engineered Hardwood
Commercial engineered hardwood is a composite flooring that is made from several layers of wood fibers and strands or veneers that are held together with adhesives. It can be used in many different commercial applications such as retail, hospitality or multi-family buildings. It comes in different colors and wood patterns, and can typically be sanded and re-stained a few times in its life-span. When cared for properly, it can last many years.
- Durability: Engineered wood is more durable when it comes to environmental factors such as humidity and heat, which could cause warping, swelling and shrinking. Engineered hardwood is strong and can withstand heavy foot-traffic. When taken care of properly, engineered hardwood can last 20-100 years.
- Cost: Compared to solid wood, engineered hard-wood floors are more cost-effective. Engineered hardwood is a more expensive commercial option overall, but is a great option depending on your project needs.
- Installation: Engineered hardwood can be nailed down, glued directly to the subfloor or glued at the joints for installation.
- Maintenance: Engineered hardwood is not water-resistant, so it is important to protect against water damage but cleaning spills or any flooding quickly. Replenishing oil can be applied every 6-4 months to add additional protection.
Laminate
Commercial laminate is type of flooring made up of several strong layers of material. It is made to withstand heavy foot traffic and scratches and dents. This makes it a great option for commercial areas like retail spaces and multi-family units.
- Durability: commercial laminate is extremely durable. It has a finish that makes it much more scratch resistant than options like vinyl plank and wood. Although it is important to note that most laminate options are not water-resistant, so it is important to take proper precaution is areas of high moisture.
- Cost: Commercial laminate is typically less expensive than vinyl plank options, but does require the purchase of additional moisture barrier for proper installation.
- Installation: Laminate is installed as a floating floor, like vinyl plank. It does typically require a three-day acclamation period. It must be store within the area it is being installed in, with no more than 3 boxes stacked together. The float-install allows for installation over many existing floors. It does not typically come with any kind of backing, so it does require the purchase of some kind of underlayment for moisture protection.
- Maintenance: Overall, commercial laminate is low maintenance. It is important to consider that it is not typically water-resistance, so extra care will be needed in areas of high moisture.
Rubber
Rubber flooring is a great option for many commercial applications. It is made from rubber and created to be protective, comfortable and durable. Typically used in gyms, hospitals and playgrounds, it is also a great option for large open areas as it also provides some sound damping and can help with overall noise reduction. It also comes in a variety of patterns and colors, making it easy to find the best option for your project.
- Properties: Rubber flooring is slip-resistance, shock absorbent and resistant to bacterial and fungi. It is also PVC free and has a low VOC. Can be made from synthetic, natural or recycle materials. It’s a long-lasting option for many commercial applications.
- Installation: Rubber flooring is available in a few different forms. It can be purchased in rolls, tiles and mats. Depending on which option is selected, installation will be completely differently. Rubber rolls are installed much like carpet and are best used in large spaces as they are easier to install and can cover a wider area. Rubber tiles are installed either by glueing them down directly to the subfloor or with an interlocking system that connects the tiles together. Tiles are a great option for smaller spaces. Lastly, rubber mats are a good option for adding padding and grip in small areas.
- Thicknesses: Rubber flooring comes in a variety of different thickness, depending on the application.
- 3/8 inch – Best used for commercial gyms
- ½-3/4 inch – Much thicker option which is great for protecting the subfloor from heavy weights
- 1inch + – this is an Olympic-rated flooring for heavy lifting
Sheet Vinyl
Commercial sheet vinyl is a durable and affordable flooring option for high-traffic commercial areas. It is made of synthetic materials like polymers, and has a protective outer layer. It comes in a variety of patterns and color that mimic wood and tile. Typically, it comes in rolls 6 or 12 feet wide. It is easy to install and low-maintenance, making it ideal for commercial install.
- Durability: When installed properly, sheet vinyl is incredibly durable. It holds up well to heavy foot traffic and can be installed in almost any application. It upholds well to moisture
- Maintenance: Sheet vinyl is easy to maintain, once installed. It only requires regular cleaning. No additional maintenance is required.
- Installation: commercial sheet is installed by being glued down directly to the subfloor. It is incredibly thin, for this reason, it is important to start with a smooth, clean subfloor, as any subfloor imperfections may be felt. Sheet vinyl can be installed over one existing layer of sheet vinyl.
- Cost: Sheet vinyl can be a cost-effective option. Some more heavy-duty option can become a little more expensive, so it is important to do your research based on the specific needs of your project.
Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood is a kind of flooring that is made from planks that are cut from a single piece of wood, as opposed to made from different layers of wood products like engineered hardwood. Known for its durability, authenticity, and the fact that is can be refinished multiple times, it is a great option for many commercial projects. Below are some features of solid hardwood to consider:
- Durability: Solid hardwood comes in different types of wood options. Oak, Hickory, and maples are a few options that provide a bit more suited against wear and tear which makes them a better option for commercial use. Other types like pine, walnut or chestnut and softer and consider to be less durable. These may not be the best option for commercial use.
- Refinishing: Solid Hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished multiple times. This makes them ideal for commercial use as it extends the life of the flooring.
- Cost-Effective: Although the initial cost of solid hardwood is on the higher end, compared to other flooring options, the long life-span of hardwood can help save money over time. It typically needs to be replaced much less often than other flooring options, making it a good investment in many commercial settings.
Sport Court
Flooring that is designed specially for sports applications are great for enhancing the overall performance of your space. It provides traction, shock absorption and safety. It can be made from a variety of materials, like tiles, planks, and other synthetic materials. This suspended flooring system offers lateral shock absorption, helps with ball bounce and play speed.
- Tiles: Typically modular plastic tiles that are installed by interlocking the edges together. They are available in options that are good for both indoor and outdoor applications. It is available in many different colors, making it easy to find what you need.
- Planks: These are usually made from real hardwood or vinyl planks that are made to look like hardwood.
- Synthetic Materials – this option can help provide additional bounce and friction to the court without the risk of moisture damage.
Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT)
VCT is a commercial-grade flooring option that is made from a mixture of limestone, filler material, color pigments and thermoplastic binder. Its durable and a great option for high-traffic areas in commercial spaces such as schools, healthcare facilities and grocery store. VCT comes in a variety of colors and pattern, allowing for intricate designs and color matching for unique areas.
- Durability: VCT is incredibly durable and holds up very well to heavy foot-traffic. It performs very well in schools, hospitals and other very busy areas.
- Maintenance: VCT does require more maintenance than most other commercial options. It requires polishing right after install, as well as regular stripping, waxing and additional polishing due its porous surface.
- Cost: VCT has a low initial cost, but due to the amount of maintenance that is needed, it can become a more expensive option in the long run. Maintenance is best completed by a flooring professional.
- Installation: VCT is glued down directly to the sub-floor, and is relatively easy to install. What is important is that you start with a complete even subfloor. Tiles can become brittle if not maintained properly, and uneven subfloors can add to potential damages.
Vinyl Plank
Commercial vinyl plank is a synthetic flooring product that is made to look and feel like hardwood, but is more cost effective, easier to maintain and install. It is very durable and can be used in high-traffic commercial spaces. It comes in many different color and plank width/lengths, providing many different options for your space.
- Durability: Commercial vinyl plank comes in a variety of different overall thickness and with different wear layer thickness, depending on the needs of your project. It is water-resistant and typically comes with a backing attached that provides extra comfort, moisture control, and sound proofing. Vinyl plank is a very durable option and can work well is high-traffic areas.
- Cost: Vinyl plank is very cost-effective, especially when purchased in bulk. This is a great option for projects with a tight budget.
- Installation: Commercial vinyl plank is installed as a floating floor. It is hammered together at the joint and sits just above the subfloor. With the proper expansion gap, the floor will expand and contract with heat and cold. This allows for install over many different types of existing flooring. This can help save on costs.
- Maintenance: Commercial vinyl plank is very low maintenance. With proper installation, it does not require anything except for light cleaning. This is a great commercial option for those looking for something easy to install and maintain.
Get in
touch
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have a question, feedback, or just want to say hello, feel free to reach out. Your thoughts are important to us, and we’re here to assist you. Connect with us today and let’s start a conversation!
how can we help?
Your thoughts are important to us, and we’re here to assist you. Connect with us today and let’s start a conversation!
