Commercial space flooring plays a critical role in creating the right ambiance, reflecting a business’s image and maintaining durability under high foot traffic. While various flooring choices exist to achieve these goals, few can match the combination of beauty and strength offered by laminate. Read on to learn more about the benefits of this durable, low-maintenance option.
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homes, but it also offers the same aesthetics and durability in commercial settings as other flooring options, such as natural stone and hardwood floors. This versatile flooring is made from multiple layers that are fused together, with the top layer consisting of a clear protective finish and the bottom of a resin-based material. The middle layer features a photographic image that gives the floor its desired appearance. The core layer is made up of high-density fiberboard or medium-density fiberboard, which provides the strength and stability. The balancing layer resists moisture and contains an anti-microbial agent that prevents mold and bacteria growth.
With a variety of styles and colors to choose from, you can create the perfect look for your commercial space. Many laminate flooring options mimic the look of natural wood species, making it a perfect choice for office spaces. There are even tile and stone-inspired laminates for businesses that want to capture a more sophisticated look.
Besides looking great, commercial laminate is a cost-effective choice for your business. Its durable construction and low maintenance requirements mean it will retain its beauty for years to come. Regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping are usually sufficient to keep your commercial laminate looking beautiful. Water-repellant surfaces and resins also make laminate a good choice for commercial environments that can get wet, such as restaurant kitchens.
Before installing any kind of flooring, it’s important to check that your subfloor is suitable. The ideal subfloor for laminate is a plywood substrate, but it can also be used with concrete slabs that are above ground, provided the surface meets our subfloor specifications and you use a vapor barrier and underlayment padding. If you’re using a concrete subfloor, it’s especially important to test the substrate for moisture migration and ensure that it is completely cured before you install your laminate flooring.
Laminate is available in a variety of thicknesses, but the thickness you choose should be based on your desired level of durability. Thicker planks will typically last longer and are easier to install than thinner planks, but they can be more expensive. Additionally, thicker planks may absorb sound better than thinner ones.
When choosing a commercial-grade laminate, it’s also essential to consider its AC rating and the amount of foot traffic your space receives on a daily basis. There are ratings from light to heavy usage, with higher ratings indicating greater durability. You should avoid anything with a lower AC rating, as it won’t be able to hold up to the constant wear and tear of your busy workplace.
If you decide to tackle the project of installing your own floor, it is a good idea to research extensively and watch instructional videos on the process before getting started. This will help you to prepare properly for the challenge and ensure that your finished result is a beautiful floor that meets all of your expectations. While it is possible to save money by attempting to install laminate floors yourself, there are many benefits to hiring a Tampa commercial laminate floor contractor. Not only will they ensure that your floors are installed correctly the first time, but they will also save you time and hassle by handling the entire project for you. In addition, many Tampa flooring contractor will also offer a warranty on their work, providing you with additional peace of mind.