Whether you’re kitting out a new shop or refurbishing warehouse facilities, having the right flooring is more important than you may realise. It plays an important role in safety, longevity and aesthetics, whatever the needs of your business are.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common flooring materials to help you choose the right option for your premises.
Why is your choice of flooring important?
Flooring might not be the first thing customers notice when they enter your shop or have dramatic impacts on your business operations, but it provides a stable foundation from which to conduct business.
Different premises require different features and functionality from flooring – for example, a gym facility would benefit from something able to withstand heavy impacts, while a clothes shop needs to provide a safe and comfortable space for customers to browse in.
Your choice of flooring also says a lot about your company. A pristine, marble floor can set the tone for a luxury retailer or high-end hairdresser. Whereas a solicitor’s firm might want sleek vinyl flooring for their offices to portray a sense of professionalism.
What are the main types of commercial flooring?
Commercial flooring comes in a range of materials, designs and styles, but the one that’s appropriate for your business will depend on your needs and wants. Some of the most common include:
- Wood: Natural wood is a flooring choice that’s become less popular as businesses look for cheaper solutions. It may not be very hardwearing and is vulnerable to scuffing, but a solid wood floor can be very visually appealing and suitable for premises creating a high-end, vintage atmosphere.
- Concrete: This is a surprisingly versatile flooring choice because it can be left bare or sealed and polished to create a durable and simple finish. Some might argue that concrete doesn’t do much for aesthetics but it’s become fashionable for some workplaces and even in homes.
- Epoxy resin: Epoxy is one of the most widely used commercial flooring products because of its durability, range of finishes and slip-resistant qualities. It’s also very hygienic, which is why it’s used widely in hospitals, schools and factories. Epoxy resin coatings can also add an extra layer to existing flooring to extend its lifespan.
- Carpet: This is another flooring that’s more out of fashion in the modern world, although carpet remains a reliable choice for a range of workplaces. It can be a nice decorative addition, but also stains easily and holds dirt which makes the material more difficult to clean.
Choosing new flooring for your business needn’t take up too much of your time, but be sure to select a finish that delivers the properties you require to maintain smooth operations.
