Comparing Different Types of Commercial Flooring

Several things make your business stand out, and the flooring you choose is just one. The biggest issue is finding a material that fits your industry, and with all the options out there, how do you choose the right one?

Whether upgrading or building a new property, the U.B. Hardwoods & Flooring team is here to compare four of the best commercial flooring materials available.

Commercial Vinyl Flooring

Let's talk about vinyl flooring! This material is made of layered construction and is designed to be water-resistant, making it a fantastic option if your business is worried about water damage or moisture.

Vinyl flooring is made to be durable, so you will have protection against denting and can withstand scratches and spills more easily.
Vinyl flooring installation is generally minimal and has sound absorbency for high-traffic spaces.

Luxury Vinyl Plank

When you need a combination of function, comfort, and beauty, vinyl plank flooring can help your business stand out.

LVP’s design offers styles similar to ceramic, hardwood, and natural stone and comes in a wide variety of wits and lengths that allow you to create traditional or trendy aesthetics.

The biggest potential downfall to vinyl is that it typically feels more rigid, which may cause some discomfort for those walking across the surface. That’s part of why expert installation is so important.

Depending on the type you choose, luxury vinyl flooring can also be more expensive than its counterparts.

Commercial Laminate Flooring

If you want a leading alternative to wood and stone flooring, laminate fits the description!

Laminate offers a beautiful and stylish aesthetic that can spruce up any commercial area, and it comes with multiple tones and textures for variety.
It's also more comfortable to walk on than other options and comes with low maintenance.

While laminate is a versatile option, it does have two drawbacks worth mentioning, with the first one being that it creates a hollow sound if the subfloor is uneven. So, make sure it's level before installing.

Laminate flooring is also not as water-resistant as other options, so if water is a concern, it might not be the best option for your business.

Commercial Tile Flooring

If you're looking for durable and stunning material, tile delivers! Commercial tiling is often sturdier and thicker than residential and makes a durable choice for high-traffic areas.

Tile comes in almost every shape, pattern, and design, allowing you to create an aesthetic that complements your commercial space.
Because it's nonporous, tile makes for an easy-cleaning and hygienic commercial flooring option.
If you are considering natural stone, tile can be a great alternative because it is cheaper and lasts 10 to 20 years.

Luxury Vinyl Tile

If you're looking to replicate stone and hardwood, luxury vinyl tile delivers a superior aesthetic. It's comfortable and incredibly durable, creating a natural beauty and a luxurious finish.

Vinyl Composite Tile

Vinyl composite tile, or VCT for short, is a popular finish primarily used in commercial spaces because it holds up incredibly well against high-traffic situations.

VCT is easy to maintain and has high durability, and when this is combined with a lower cost, it gives you a flooring finish that has high resilience and offers easy replacement if one of the tiles becomes damaged.

Even with all the benefits, there are two things worth mentioning, with the price being the biggest concern. VCT can vary in pricing, but it tends to be more expensive than other materials, and it's also not the best for workspaces where there's a lot of movement or moisture because the surface can become slippery.

Commercial Carpeting

If you're looking for comfort and easy maintenance, you can't go wrong with carpeting.

Carpet comes in many colors and patterns that work well in almost any commercial environment.
Carpet is also sound absorbent, making it an ideal option for busy spaces that need sound support.

Broadloom Carpet

This type of carpeting comes with a wider loom and is the typical wall-to-wall tufted carpet.

There are four different types:

Cut and loop has tight and cut loops for a unique finish
Cut pile works great if you need a looser and softer texture
Frieze is similar to a shag style and offers high durability
Loop has shorter fibers woven into the backing, making it ideal for high-traffic areas

Carpet Squares

Square style is another favorite for busy companies, and because they come in tiles, they offer an easy installation.

Carpet squares are also designed to be thick and comfortable, similar to traditional carpets, making them an excellent alternative to wall-to-wall.

With carpet, you're looking at a higher install price than other materials, and it can wear down quickly in high-traffic areas and end up absorbing stains and spills, reducing its durability and needing replacing more quickly than other options.

Consider the Flooring Transitions

You need your flooring design to look cohesive, and a transition occurs from the floor to the wall. The trim applied there is known as the cove base, and the strip is in place to create a natural flow and prevent water pooling at the base of the wall, keeping them protected.

Your entrance is a key presentation of your business, and anytime you're installing commercial flooring, walk-offs are a common addition to any installation.

Walk-offs are the carpet tile or matting found at the entrances of businesses, and their job is to capture any contaminants in the soil as people enter your business, protecting the floor and minimizing the risk of incidents like slips and falls.

Get Professional Commercial Flooring Installation in MN

From industrial to luxury, there's a flooring that will complement your commercial space beautifully. Layout and design are critical; When you need expert services, U.B. Hardwoods & Flooring is a trusted name in Plymouth.

Our team specializes in flooring installation, and to give you the highest-quality finish, we only work with premium manufacturers, including Mohawk, Mannington, and Shaw Floors.

If you need more information, give our office a call at 763-807-4500 or reach out to us online for your free estimate.