In the bustling world of large commercial spaces, flooring isn’t just a surface to walk on; it’s an integral element of design, functionality, and longevity. Commercial flooring serves as the foundation for businesses, retail spaces, healthcare facilities, and office environments, and it must withstand the demands of high foot traffic, heavy equipment, and daily wear and tear. Join us if you’re looking for successful commercial flooring you don’t have to worry and discover the essential practices for ensuring an effective installation that endures throughout time.
What is Commercial Flooring?
Commercial flooring refers to the specialized floor coverings and materials used in non-residential settings such as businesses, offices, commercial property, retail stores, healthcare facilities, hospitality venues, educational institutions, and industrial spaces. Unlike residential flooring, commercial flooring is designed to withstand the unique demands of high-traffic environments, heavy equipment, and various commercial activities.
This article explores the world of commercial flooring, shedding light on the diverse materials and considerations when installing commercial flooring that business owners and facility managers need to consider. From the types of commercial flooring available to the best practices for their installation, we embark on a journey to understand how a well-planned and executed flooring solution can elevate any retail space’s aesthetics, functionality, and longevity.
Types of Commercial Flooring
There are several types of commercial flooring projects that follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Here are some affordable flooring options.
Epoxy resin flooring
Epoxy resin flooring is famous for Its longevity and adaptability make it suitable for commercial and industrial settings.This type of flooring involves applying a layer of epoxy – a thermosetting resin – onto a concrete surface, resulting in a high-gloss, hard-wearing finish.
Flooring offers resistance to heavy loads, chemical spills, and abrasion, making it particularly suitable for warehouses, garages, factories, and hospitals. Moreover, it is available in an array of colors and patterns, providing an opportunity to enhance the space’s aesthetic appeal while ensuring practicality and robustness.
Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is a highly durable, low-maintenance option with a sleek aesthetic appeal. This type of flooring is created by grinding the surface of the concrete to a smooth, high-gloss finish resembling polished stone.
It is an excellent ideal choice for commercial spaces due to its strength and ease of maintenance. The glossy surface resists the marks of heavy foot traffic and is easy to clean, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses. The reflective surface can also enhance natural lighting, contributing to a brighter, more inviting commercial space.
Stained Concrete
Stained concrete flooring is another versatile and robust option for commercial spaces, taking the aesthetic value up a notch. The process involves applying a colored acidic stain that reacts with the concrete, creating a rich, deep hue that permeates the surface.
It can replicate the look of polished marble, tanned leather, or natural stone, adding a touch of elegance to any commercial environment. Resistant to wear and tear and needing minimal maintenance, stained concrete slab can effectively handle high foot traffic while maintaining an attractive appearance over time.
Polyurethane Screed
Polyurethane screed flooring is an outstanding choice for commercial spaces that require a combination of robustness, hygiene, and aesthetic appeal. This type of flooring is often used in food and beverage industries, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and commercial kitchens due to its exceptional resistance to chemicals, temperature extremes, and heavy machinery.
Polyurethane screed is also anti-slip, making it a safe option for wet or oily environments. Its seamless finish not only enhances the visual appeal of the space but also facilitates easy cleaning and prevents the growth of bacteria, meeting the strict hygiene standards often required in these industries.
Guide for Commercial Flooring Installation
Commercial flooring need proper installation instructions so here’s a proper guide for the installation process of different commercial flooring types:
Plan and Prepare
Before starting the installation process, it is crucial to have a solid plan in place. This includes ensuring the subfloor is clean, dry, level, and free from any irregularities affecting the final result. Any necessary repairs or adjustments should be made before proceeding with the installation of any flooring product.
Remove Flooring
If there is an existing floor system, it must be removed before installing your new flooring to any commercial building. This might involve using tools or chemicals to break up and remove the old flooring, depending on the type of material.
It’s vital to remove all traces of adhesive, underlay, or other debris. This process can take time, so patience and thoroughness are crucial. Once the old flooring is removed, the subfloor should be inspected again for any damage or irregularities.
Make a Floor Map and Calculate
To ensure efficient use of materials and accurate installation, creating a floor map and performing necessary calculations is essential. Start by measuring the length and width of the room or space where the new flooring will be installed by using a flooring installer.
These dimensions can then be used to calculate the total square footage of the floor. In the case of irregularly shaped rooms, divide the room into smaller squares or rectangles, calculate the area of these individual sections, and then sum them up to get the total area.
This floor map will be a handy visual aid during the installation process, helping to guide the placement of the flooring material and minimize waste. Remember to account for closets, nooks, and any other features. It’s also wise to buy extra flooring to compensate for any miscalculations or unexpected damage.
Buying Flooring by the Square Foot
When purchasing materials for commercial flooring, it’s typically sold by the square foot, which makes calculating the amount needed straightforward. To determine how much flooring material you’ll require, you’ll need to know the total square footage of the space where the flooring will be installed.
This is calculated by multiplying the length of the play by its width. Adding 10% to this figure is also recommended to account for any waste or mistakes made during the installation process.
For irregularly shaped rooms, you may have to further divide the room into rectangles or squares to get an accurate measurement.
Remember to include all areas that need flooring, such as closets and nooks. Once you have the total square footage, you can easily calculate the flooring material cost by multiplying this figure by the price per square foot. Always double-check your measurements and calculations before purchasing to ensure you buy adequate flooring.
Choose a Material: Costs Per Square Foot
When choosing a flooring material for a commercial space, it is essential to consider the cost per square foot, as this will significantly impact the overall budget.
Install Flooring
Installing new flooring involves several steps by using installer, or many other installation techniques each requiring meticulous attention to detail to ensure a smooth and level finish.
Acclimate the Flooring:
Start by acclimating the new flooring to the room’s conditions. This minimizes the risk of expansion or contraction post-installation. The flooring material should ideally be left in the room where it will be installed for some time, typically 48-72 hours.
Layout the Flooring:
Next, plan the structure of the flooring. Start from the center of the room and work towards the edges. This ensures a symmetrical finish, even if cuts are needed at the room’s perimeter.
Install the Flooring Material:
Begin installing the flooring according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves connecting the flooring pieces by snapping them into place for flooring. Maintain the recommended gap at the walls to allow for expansion.
5 Tips For Choosing The Best Commercial Flooring Option
When choosing the best flooring for a commercial space, several factors must be considered. Here are five essential installation tips to help you select the right commercial flooring option for your business:
Consider your needs
The first step in choosing the appropriate commercial flooring option is to carefully consider the specific needs of your business and space. Ask yourself: What is the purpose of the area? The answers to these questions will help determine the durability and type of flooring material required.
For instance, a busy retail store might need a hard-wearing, easy-to-clean flooring option like vinyl or tile, while a cozy office space could benefit from the warmth and comfort of carpeting. Understanding your space’s unique requirements is fundamental to choosing the most suitable commercial flooring.
Noise
When choosing a flooring material for a commercial space, it’s imperative to consider noise levels. Different flooring materials have other sound absorption properties. For instance, carpet can significantly minimize noise, while more complex materials like tile can echo sound.
This is particularly important in high-traffic areas or spaces where noise control is critical, such as offices, hospitals, or schools. Acoustic underlayment for soundproofing subfloors can be utilized with more complex materials to reduce noise transmission. Hence, selecting a flooring option that aligns with your noise control requirements can significantly improve the overall usability and comfort of the space.
Cleaning times and requirements
Your chosen flooring material’s maintenance and cleaning requirements are also crucial considerations. Different materials have varying levels of upkeep and may require specific cleaning procedures. Understanding the cleaning and maintenance requirements of each potential flooring option is vital.
This will ensure your selection aligns with the time, resources, and staffing available for cleaning and maintenance tasks in your commercial space. It’s always beneficial to choose a flooring option that is visually appealing, durable, and easy to maintain in the long run.
Health and Safety
The health and safety must be considered when choosing a commercial flooring option. The right and durable flooring can help prevent slips and falls, especially in high-traffic areas. Some materials offer better slip resistance than others. For instance, textured and matte finishes can provide better traction than smooth, glossy ones.
Areas prone to wetness, like bathrooms or kitchens, could benefit from moisture-resistant flooring options. In spaces like healthcare facilities, non-porous flooring can help maintain sanitary conditions and prevent the spread of germs. Remember, a safe work environment contributes to the overall productivity and well-being of the staff, making it a crucial factor in your decision-making process.
Conclusion
Commercial flooring is essential in non-residential spaces, offering a blend of durability, aesthetics, and functionality. The commercial flooring choices material plays a significant role in shaping a business or facility’s overall look and feel. When combined with proper installation practices, it can elevate the space’s performance, longevity, and safety. By making informed choices and following recommended installation procedures, business owners and facility managers can ensure that their commercial flooring stands up to the demands of their specific environment, enhancing both the business’s functionality and its visual appeal.
FAQs
How do I choose the right commercial flooring for my business or facility?
The choice of many commercial flooring should consider factors like foot traffic, maintenance requirements, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Consult with flooring experts to select the best material for your specific needs.
What are the most common types of commercial flooring materials?
Common commercial flooring materials include ceramic tiles, rubber, and epoxy. The choice depends on the space’s requirements and intended use.
Is professional installation necessary for commercial flooring?
Professional installation is recommended for commercial flooring to ensure proper placement and adherence to best practices. It helps maximize the flooring’s lifespan and performance.
How can I maintain and care for commercial flooring to ensure its longevity?
Regular cleaning, maintenance, and adherence to the manufacturer’s recommendations are essential for preserving the longevity and appearance of commercial flooring.
Are there eco-friendly options for commercial flooring?
Yes, eco-friendly and sustainable flooring options are available for commercial spaces, such as recycled materials, low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) opportunities, and sustainably sourced hardwood.
What are the safety considerations for commercial flooring regarding slip resistance and fire safety?
Slip-resistant commercial flooring is crucial, especially in spaces where safety is a concern. Additionally, fire-resistant flooring may be necessary in specific commercial settings to meet safety codes and regulations.