Compared to choosing a flooring option for homes, choosing one for commercial spaces is far more challenging. The reason for that is, commercial spaces like offices are open to the public, and therefore choosing a floor that is safe, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing is very important.
The best flooring option for a workplace will most certainly depend on the size of the office, the number of employees working in it daily, budget, and maintenance requirements. While there are many options out there, we’ve rounded up a list of three types of flooring commonly used in commercial spaces.
1. Timber flooring
Timber adds natural warmth and offers a professional look to any space.
Therefore, such flooring remains one of the most popular choices for commercial spaces. There is just so much class and elegance that comes along with timber flooring. Solid timber flooring brings a sense of luxury with it and blends in with all types of décors.
Timber flooring can be very alluring, and you would instinctively want to choose that for your workspace. However, there are both advantages and disadvantages associated with hardwood flooring.
Hardwood flooring pros are as follows.
- Long-lasting and durable.
- Available in a wide variety.
- Easy to maintain and comparatively hygienic.
- Easy to install.
Hardwood flooring cons are as follows.
- The cost of the timber flooring is higher compared to regular carpets or tiles.
- It is prone to termite attack.
- Excessive movement can alter certain sections causing clicking and cracking as you walk.
- It can cause ambient noise, which would be an issue in open-plan offices.
However, all the above cons can be countered by having your timber flooring installed by professionals and taking care to pick the right product for your exact requirements.
2. Carpet flooring
Choosing carpet or carpet tiles for commercial flooring is an excellent idea as it is cost-effective and economical.
Carpet can be used extensively throughout the office space to achieve visual continuity. With heaps of styles, textures, and designs available in the market, one can get spoilt with choices.
Just like timber, even carpet comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Benefits of carpet flooring
- It keeps the floor warm, which makes it an ideal choice for colder places.
- Carpets can be cosy and comfortable.
- Carpets work as sound absorbers.
- They’re cost-effective compared to other floorings.
Disadvantages of carpet flooring
- Carpets need regular maintenance, such as deep cleaning and vacuuming.
- Highly susceptible to allergens such as moulds and dirt mites.
- Most carpets are manufactured synthetically and tend to have a shorter lifespan.
3. Tile flooring
Tiles are long-lasting and do not wear out that easily. This characteristic makes them an ideal choice for a big office that hosts hundreds of employees. With tile flooring, you’ll not have to worry about heavy footfall. Easy to maintain and a breeze to clean, tile flooring is a convenient flooring option for office spaces located in humid, dry, or hot areas.
While it is tempting as a business owner to go for something elegant and economical at the same time, Tile flooring comes with its own set of cons, just like any other flooring.
Tile flooring pros.
- It is stain and water-resistant.
- It resists high humid temperatures in hot and muggy summers.
- It is tough and durable.
- It is generally affordable and lasts longer.
Tile flooring cons.
- It can become colder during winters as it does not absorb or hold onto heat.
- They can often be slippery and hazardous.
- Tiles may look quirky at times but do not always provide an elegant look.
While designing an office, you need to consider many things. However, your top priority should be to provide a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment to all employees. This means, choosing a flooring material that is safe and healthy in all aspects is important.
By Shaiva Pandya