Commercial Business Flooring: What Is the Ideal Type?

When it comes to functional interior décor, the role of flooring isn’t to be underestimated. While it’s true for homes, it’s even more so in the case with businesses related to some of the booming industries, as in the example with tourism, leisure and hospitality.

This is so because environments like the hotels, resorts, fitness centres, gyms, restaurants, pubs, bars, coffee shops, offices, sporting stadiums and tourist attractions are specific in the sense that they require exceptional hospitality flooring that can withstand all the wear and tear from high traffic, and at the same time offer stylishness. When you take all this into account, it’s no surprise vinyl is the material that’s considered the primary choice.

Affordable Investment

Perhaps one of the first benefits people see about this flooring option is the fact it comes in very convenient prices as opposed to other types, like hardwood for example. This includes the price of the tiles and planks, as well as that of installation considering vinyl offers a quick set-up that doesn’t require a particularly expensive adhesive.

vinyl flooring cafe
source: sabatebarcelona.com

If you choose loose-lay vinyl, a product that’s ready to lay, you won’t even need glue thanks to the fibreglass backing on the tiles and planks. In hospitality businesses, this is considered an advantage due to the fact they won’t have to keep rooms or entire floors closed down throughout renovations before the flooring can be usable; time sure is money!

Besides the initial savings, this type of hospitality flooring proves to be great in the long run also given the high quality of latest designs, like those with polyurethane coating treatments for protection that come in two categories: PU and PUR. The difference between these is the first requires some polish or sealer, and the latter doesn’t so it proves to be even more economical eventually when it comes to maintenance.

Outstanding Properties

Forget about the easily damaged old fashioned vinyl we used to see at our grandparents’ homes decades ago, vinyl nowadays is made with use of latest technology so it’s far more durable than ever before – particularly when it’s reinforced with materials like polyurethane.

In addition, this type of floor is abrasion resistant, along with fire and slip-resistance having in mind, it prevents slip, trip, and fall accidents and injuries because of being softer and more comfortable, offering a great deal more traction.

The slip resistance is also guaranteed in wet conditions which is what makes vinyl the ideal choice for areas prone to moisture, such as those where contaminant spillages are likely to happen, commercial kitchens, food preparation spaces, canteens, café and bar serveries, and bathrooms. Since it’s great as a barrier against dirt and infections, it’s a material that can even be used as a floor to wall surface.

Then again, let’s not forget the flexible and cushioned surface further allows it to absorb sound too so it’s recommended in places where noise isn’t welcome – for instance, I can think of such flooring being installed in cinemas and theatres, hotel corridors, rooms, and venues. These are all the properties that are of help with tourism, leisure and hospitality environments where the safety of employers, employees and clients is a priority.

A Dose of Style

2020 design of vinyl flooring for hospitality
source: interiordesignerathouston.com

As I said before, today’s vinyl hospitality flooring isn’t to be thought of as the outdated vinyl – you’re in for surprise when it comes to a variety of colours and patterns. Thanks to the mimicking property, there’s sophisticated vinyl that looks like dark and light natural detailed wood, ceramic, concrete, and even textiles, so you’ve got a wide range to choose from. In other words, you get the look for less, plus you reap all the advantages from vinyl.

As Hygienic as It Gets

Due to the impervious layer, vinyl tile or plank flooring is very hygienic as bacteria won’t have a place to hide. I won’t say it’s maintenance-free, but rather low-maintenance since regular cleaning is still recommended. However, unlike other types of flooring, you won’t have much trouble with the cleaning chores and you’d get to save money on cleaning supplies as it requires fewer products.

man cleaning cafe's vinyl flooring
source: baamboozle.com

When you take care of its cleanliness every day, you’re able to prolong its lifespan and protect it from stains. You won’t be wrong in choosing the simple combination of warm water and soap for a good wash, or the apple cider vinegar with water for some more persistent stains.

However, if you’d like something more complex than this be aware that not every product would do since some chemicals can be harsh and damage the surface. To avoid this and ensure the peace of mind, it’s advisable to buy specialised commercial vinyl floor cleaners recommended by the floor manufacturers.

Lastly, to protect it from scratches, it’s best to also take to regular sweeping and vacuuming as they’re essential for removing dust, dirt and debris which, let’s face it, appear particularly at high traffic areas.