The best type of flooring for a modern office

Carpet, vinyl, laminate, hardwood, rubber or even ceramic tiles – when deciding on the best flooring for a modern office, style preference is often the deciding factor, but we look at some of the key considerations that may help sway the final decision.

1. Traffic levels and service life - Setting the right standard!

It isn’t just footfall you need to consider but also the required life expectancy of the flooring. Class 31, 32, 33, etc., refers to a general classification system used for flooring made of carpet, vinyl, laminate, parquet, ceramic tiles, etc. This standard requires that the flooring product will last at least 10 years without presenting problems, if used in a designated room type. However, the floor must have been installed according to the instructions and used and maintained as prescribed for this to apply. Class 32 means that the floors can be used for moderate commercial use, while Class 33 is for heavy commercial use.

2. Ease of repair and maintenance

Carpet Tiles are a good choice, the ability to swap tiles around. They often use dyes and patterns that minimise the visual effects of spillages, and many come with stain resistant properties. Vinyl flooring either LVT or sheet have a number of advantages as well. This has seen a greater surge then the trajectory it was previously on now hygiene is at the forefront of everyone’s mind. If you are interested in the debate of vinyl versus carpet tiles read this article.

3. Ease and Cost of Installation

It is worth considering installation time when looking at budget, certain flooring types are quicker to install, but that can be easily offset by considerations around maintenance and life-time cost.

4. Benefits sought

i. Carpet Tiles / Carpet - Noise insulation and warmth

Carpet – is an obvious choice for noise insulation and warmth, and if sustainability and ease of repair are a factor, carpet tile is usually more sustainable than broadloom.

ii. Vinyl flooring - Hardwearing / damage resistant

Vinyl is perfect for office premises with high foot fall, as it is resistant to damage from heels or scratches or from furniture being moved around the floor.

iii. Rubber flooring - Safety and sound

Rubber flooring is slip-resistant, easy to walk on, and sound absorbent but is also the perfect solution for wet environments or when resistance to heat is required.

iv. Hardwood flooring - Natural beauty

Hardwood flooring can give an office a stylish, executive feel. It’s very durable although it can be damaged by water. It is also worth noting it can be slippery if over polished.

v. Laminate - A good price alternative to stone or hardwood

Available in many different varieties of hardwood and stone effects and can still give an office a very natural looking appearance. Vinyl flooring is all synthetic, so it can go anywhere, whereas laminate is made from wood by-products bonded with resins. Limited moisture resistance dictates selective areas where laminate flooring may or may not be installed.

vi. Ceramic tiles - The cooler approach

Ideal in a particularly warm building as they tend to lack the warming qualities of vinyl, rubber and carpeting but have the advantage of ensuring the floor stays cool, especially in the summer. Also easy to maintain and a good option where water damage may be an issue.

Hopefully this is helpful - contact us for further assistance - and see our extensive range