5 Critical Tips for Your Next Carpet Tile Installation

There are five critical tips for successful carpet tile installation. If you are planning a new office space or redesigning an existing one, your organization’s requirements will involve several considerations. Here’s how to make a more informed decision about your investment, ranging from moisture issues to employee health.

1.Carpet Tile and Moisture

The first factor to consider is whether the site in question is newly constructed or a renovation. This will determine the type of carpet tile required and what solutions make the most sense for that area.

For example, under ideal conditions a newly-poured four-inch concrete slab takes four to five months to be fully ready to accept flooring.

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

Darwin Fisher Entertainment One carpet installation

As construction schedules don’t allow for the time required for concrete to cure, the carpet tile installed is one that must be able to handle rising water vapour. It’s a good idea to install modular carpet tile products have been designed to manage subfloor moisture vapor through an open-cell cushion backing.

Unlike hard backed tiles, these types of systems allow for water vapour to travel through the open-cell cushion and up the seam. It is then able to naturally evapourate through the edges of the carpet tile as it surfaces. If the water vapour isn’t allowed to evaporate condensation occurs which can lead to various problems including, lifting carpet, mould and mildew and potentially poor office air quality.

If the project is a renovation, properly preparing the floor and removing the existing flooring to lay the new carpet tile is the first step. The job may require grinding the floor and removing existing adhesives.

Products available for various manufacturers can easily be installed over existing adhesives to  completely obscures any surface irregularities, whereas these types of surface issues may show through hardback carpet after installation.

2. Carpet Tile and Reduced Downtime

Carpet tiles can be easily installed and do not require the dismantling of office systems or employee workstations. When installing carpet tile there is no need to lift furniture in contrast to broadloom, ceramic or hardwood flooring.

Toronto Carpet Tiling

Darwin Fisher Imax carpet tile installation

Darwin Fisher’s secret weapon is Levitate, an Office Lifting System that eliminates downtime and disruption while saving money. Levitate is a technology that allows carpet to be replaced with little or no downtime.

Levitate is a series of custom designed mechanical tools which are placed underneath any type of office furniture to lift it smoothly and safely. Once the furniture and workstations are lifted the carpet is easily installed.

Levitate office lifting system enables users to re-carpet occupied office areas providing significant savings in time, cost and eliminates employee disruption and relocation. There is no need for disconnection and reconnection of computers, cables, phone lines or other equipment.

The cost savings that Darwin Fisher provides its clients using this system is in excess of 50% as Levitate eliminates the need for computer technicians, staff relocation, furniture specialists and other budget intensive resources required with other types of flooring.

3. Carpet Tile and Durability

Carpet tile systems provide greater flexibility for installation and refitting for a variety of applications across many industries including healthcare, hospitality, retail, education and the entertainment industry. If broadloom is chosen and an area is damaged, fixing the spot in question is a much larger and more complicated process in terms of seam and pattern matching. It also makes it difficult to fix if there is no attic stock available.

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Carpet tile spot removal and cleaning

Once your carpet tile is installed it is easy to change out any specific areas wear and tear areas or to spot clean for spills. This will help promote the longevity of your investment.

4. Carpet Tile and Investment

Yes, you can take it with you when you go. After installation you can protect your investment long term. If there is a future requirement to move locations, carpet tile can be easily lifted, removed and re-installed at a new site. At Darwin Fisher, we’ve had clients move their tile and number the tile so that it can be re-installed the same way it came up it was lifted.

Carpet tile has a long lifespan and if it is well maintained well you can realize a return on your investment for many years to come. Colour matching technology also have gotten much more accurate with time so that if a certain colour of tile is purchased years before and a new space needs to be carpeted there is the opportunity to match the older installation to the newer area.

5. Carpet Tile and Employee Health

Research from Milliken reveals cushion backing is made with 90% recycled materials providing very tangible health and wellness benefits. By offering a more comfortable surface to stand or walk on, it reduces fatigue and through its acoustic properties. It does this by reducing noise levels making it a suitable option for flooring in commercial environments.

More good news for your employees. Acoustically, cushioned carpet tiles are also quieter than hard floors or hardback carpet. As a result, sound is contained and a quieter office space can be realized making for a more relaxing workspace.

Cushion back carpets will also last 40 to 50% longer than hardback carpets as the cushion backing absorbs the effects of wear and protects the face of the carpet, unlike other backing options. Cushion backing also offers installation, ergonomic, safety and environmental benefits.

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Darwin Fisher IMAX carpet tile installation

For more information about carpet tile installation and how to protect your investment, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Acoustics and Commercial Flooring – The Difference is Sound

Acoustics and commercial flooring are interdependent and will dictate the type of materials that are required for your unique installation.

The type of industry vertical will also dictate materials to be used as areas of high traffic will have different needs as opposed to less accessible, private locations. Other considerations include acoustic properties that relate to moving furniture, foot traffic or where the office or workspace is situated, which is constantly changing with today’s modular commercial work environments.

Commercial flooring contractors

Acoustics and Commercial Flooring Materials – The Difference is Sound

Armstrong Flooring reports “the absorption and transmission of sound energy in a built environment is directly impacted by the type of construction and building materials selected, and this is true for flooring as well. Careful consideration of the acoustic goals for your building spaces is essential prior to making construction and material selections, and flooring can play a positive role in achieving optimum indoor environmental quality for building occupants.”

Choosing the Correct Flooring Solution for Your Environment

There are many things to consider when choosing the correct commercial flooring to suit your acoustic needs.

  1. Acoustic Goals – What are the acoustic requirements and goals of the space? Does it need to be quiet or is it in a noisy area-  amongst metric considerations that may have to be adhered to.
  2. Building Layout – If a building includes a particularly noise sensitive space, opposite where more noisy areas need to be isolated.
  3. Building Construction – Determines many acoustical parameters, including STC and IIC needs must be taken into consideration if trying to minimize sound transmission between spaces by carefully considering both the building construction and flooring material.
  4. Acoustical Treatments –  Acoustical wall and ceiling treatments such as ceiling tiles are especially useful, given the large potential surface area, ease of installation, and the availability of high absorption materials.

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There are 3 Ways of Measuring Sound

  • Surface Absorption: They can absorb sound, lowering background noise levels and reducing reverberation within a room.
  • Airborne Sound Transmission: They can serve as acoustical insulation and reduce transmission of airborne sounds, such as voices, between rooms.
  • Impact Sound Transmission: They can serve as impact sound insulation and reduce the transmission of impact sound, such as footsteps, from one room to another below or adjacent to it.

According to Armstrong, “the type of industry/vertical will also drive acoustic and sound transmission considerations. Delta Impact Insulation Class (IIC): ASTM E-2179, also known as the “Delta” test, determines the noise reduction that a product adds to the assembly. This test consists of two IIC tests conducted over the same concrete subfloor. One test is over the bare concrete subfloor (no flooring materials) and the other is over the concrete subfloor with floor covering material. The measured IIC values are compared to the reference floor levels defined in the standard and adjusted to provide the IIC the covering would produce on the reference concrete floor.”

Acoustics and Commercial Flooring By Industry Vertical

For specific industry segments the acoustical property requirements vary by class. See Figure 6, directly from Armstrong’s Dispelling the Myths of the Role Flooring Plays in Room Acoustics white paper below.

commercial flooring installation GTA

Source: Armstrong Flooring – Acoustic metric importance by industry

Healthcare Acoustics and Commercial Flooring

In hospitals and doctor’s offices, the most prevalent surfaces are hard, sealed floors due to its many inherent benefits. A recent study which included Health Care Without Harm and partners, and written by Jennifer DuBose • Amaya Labrador showed that when choosing flooring, “the four priority issues that went into flooring decisions for all of the user types were cleanability, aesthetics, durability and initial cost.”

Acoustics were secondary, however hospital facility structure can naturally lead to low sound transmission between levels. The issue that arises with these hard floors is structure-borne impact noise, particularly from carts and footfall. Such noise has been found to affect patient health due to the additional stress imposed.

International Building Code requires an IIC minimum of 50. 4 areas of hospitals, like hallways and waiting rooms. However, a recent study by the Center for Health Design at Palomar Health concluded that the combination of hard flooring and the addition of acoustical ceiling tiles may be more effective than carpeting at reducing maximum noise levels3 .

LVT dental office installation

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring healthcare installation

Education Acoustics and Commercial Flooring

As with the healthcare industry, most flooring found in schools are hard, resilient surfaces for functionality and durability purposes. Carpet can and is installed, especially inside classrooms to reduce impact noises such as chairs scraping against floors. Classrooms generally require lower background noise levels and lower reverberation times to ensure that students can clearly hear instructors, but absorptive materials with high NRC for achieving this in classrooms are more effectively placed on the ceiling or upper wall.

Corporate Office Acoustics and Commercial Flooring

Unlike healthcare and education, carpet has been a trend in the office segment for several years. Carpet, as well as ceiling tiles and partitions, is installed to address unwanted sound. In an office the main distracters are “people sounds”— phone conversations, throat clearings, vacuum cleaners — anything a listener can detect and that distracts. Background sounds, like an HVAC system, that are regular and predictable are easier to block out than disruptive sounds, like conversation over a cubicle wall. When ceiling tiles, which are highly absorptive, are used in conjunction with other highly absorptive products like partitions, they can play an essential role in office acoustics.

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Darwin Fisher Commercial flooring IMAX headquarters office installation

Acoustics and Commercial Flooring – Understanding Your Requirements

There are a number of different types of products on the market, when considering flooring materials.  Many manufacturers offer different performance ratios from one product to another, from the surface of the product to type of backing used and flooring underlays. Ensure your flooring installer is knowledgeable of the differences, quality and applications that would best suit your environment for design, maintenance, traffic and acoustic considerations.

For more information about acoustics and flooring installation solutions please provide details of your inquiry here or email us directly at info@darwinfisher.com.

For more information about the Armstrong white paper, please click here.

 

Global Flooring Market Size: Share, Product, Application and Trends Analysis 2022 – 2030

A global flooring market report 2022-2030 projects the overall the market will continue to expand due technological advancements in materials and application, coupled with increased spending.

Grand View Research Inc.  based in San Francisco, CA has released its Flooring Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Ceramic Tiles, Porcelain Tiles, Carpet, Vinyl, Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), Linoleum & Rubber), By Application, By Type, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 – 2030 report.

The report states that the global flooring market size was estimated at USD 257.92 billion in 2021 and is expected to register a growth of 5.6% during the forecast period. The market is expected to be driven by increased global spending on infrastructure coupled with the growing world population.

 

global flooring market 2022-2030

U.S. Flooring Market Projections

Global Flooring Market 2022-2030 – Report Insights

The rising population in developing countries has contributed to the growth of the flooring industry in conjunction with fast-paced infrastructural development. Growing disposable income has resulted in increased investments in residential buildings and is also propelling the growth of the flooring industry.

The advancement in application and installation techniques, innovative construction solutions which are continually hitting the market, and rising demand for sustainable products is expected to further drive industry growth. Regulations on  production, usage, implementation, and recycling requirements is also expected to boost market growth.

Moreover, consumer preferences for aesthetically improved designs, textures, & colors and low-maintenance & easy-to-install floorings are anticipated to ascend the market growth. For more information on some of the leading types of commercial products click here.

The rising need for privacy and acoustics has spurred the demand for insulation across the flooring market. For more information on our recent article regarding flooring and acoustics click here. This has resulted in the growing demand for insulation, thereby supporting market growth.

Global Flooring Market 2022-2030 – Product Insights

Porcelain tiles led the market and accounted for 27.6% of revenue share in 2021. Porcelain tiles are stronger and more durable as compared to general ceramic tiles as they are fired at extreme temperatures and are made from denser clays which makes them more durable.

Features such as mold and bacteria resistance offered by impervious porcelain tiles lead to long-term value in floor covering. Porcleain tile is not only strong but easy to maintain.

The ceramic tiles segment accounted for 22.4% of the total revenue share in 2021. Ceramic tiles primarily consist of three types – glazed tiles, unglazed tiles, and scratch-resistant tiles.

The wood & laminate segment was estimated at USD 50,213.2 Million in 2021 and is further estimated to grow with a substantial CAGR in the coming years. This growth is attributed to rising significance of wood in luxury construction in residential as well as commercial areas. The advantages of wood include durability, ease of maintenance, a range of finish options, acoustical values and improved air quality.

While natural stone is more expensive as compared to other flooring products it is widely used for durability, aesthetics, and long-term value for investment.

Global Flooring Market 2022-2030 – Application Insights

The commercial application segment accounted for 43.1% of the revenue share in 2021. Commercial applications are subject to high traffic areas, and therefore require durable flooring such as resilient and wood. Flooring products are used in numerous commercial building applications from corporate offices to large and small retail stores.

Increasing construction of commercial buildings, such as drugstores, grocery, and big-box stores, over the past few years, is expected to benefit the segment growth over the coming years. Moreover, robust demand for office spaces, especially in urban areas of emerging economies, is also propelling demand for high-quality flooring products.

Global Flooring Market 2022-2030

Global Flooring Market By Application

Global Flooring Market 2022-2030 – Regional Insights

The Asia Pacific region dominated the market and accounted for 44.96% of the total share in 2021. The regional market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period. Factors such as increasing investment in affordable housing, smart city construction, upgradation and construction of infrastructure, and investment in the tourism sector are expected to boost the demand for flooring products in the forecast period.

Construction industry in Asia Pacific is expected to grow on account of the rising per capita income, rapid urbanization, and expanding population. The expansion of residential, commercial, and industrial sector sustainable economic growth is expected to boost construction activities, thereby, driving the market for flooring in the forecast period in this sector.

Flooring Market Trends by Region

To learn more about this report, request a free sample copy

The Central & South American flooring market is anticipated to witness sluggish growth compared to other regions worldwide over the coming years. The construction spending in the region witnessed a steep decline in 2020 owing to the pandemic. Although the spending surged in 2021, its pace is anticipated to decelerate in 2022.

The flooring industry in Middle East and Africa was accounted for 11.43% in 2021. Improved funding by the Middle East and African governments, owing to the availability of financing options such as public-private partnerships, domestic capital markets, and private investment funds, is expected to boost the growth of the construction industry, thereby, driving the flooring industry in the region.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Technological advancements, R+D, coupled with new trends in floor designs and construction solutions have driven the overall market. There are a variety of market players and each of these companies offer a variety of products for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Several manufacturers are engaged in research & development activities to introduce sustainable flooring materials.

Some of the prominent players cited in the global flooring market include:

For  more information regarding Grand View Research’s methodology please click here.

To see related articles regarding commercial flooring trends please click here.

For more information about flooring installation solutions please contact us here.

 

5 Expert Tips for Maintaining Porcelain Tile in Dental Offices

Porcelain Tile Care + Maintenance Before, During and After Installation

Porcelain tile care and maintenance in dental offices can be handled in 5 simple ways. Porcelain tile is a very durable flooring material that is water resistant, non-porous and requires little maintenance day to day.

There are three main types of porcelain tile products: unpolished, polished, and patterned/ textured. To maintain appearance and protect your long-term investment, consider the following before, during and after your dental office installation.

  • Ensure all construction is completed before final installation as any heavy objects or traffic can damage the surface
  • Ensure you are using materials to cover the tile surface (kraft paper, plywood) during installation of grout to avoid grout residue and related product on the tile
  • Ensure the grout is sealed at all joints
Porcelain tile installation

Photo Credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

Porcelain Tile Care After Installation

Depending on location and daily foot traffic, a simple vacuum or sweeping can be executed. For any stubborn areas a damp mop will also work to remove debris that vacuuming or sweeping missed.

If there are any stains that are not easily removed, spot cleaning is recommended rather than taking any type of detergent or chemicals to the entire surface area.

It is also critical not to use any cleaners with harsh ingredients such as ammonia or bleach to clean these problem areas. Over time it may erode the surface finish of the tile by opening the seal, allowing water to cause erosion to both the tile and the grout used to keep the tiles in place.

“The key characteristic with porcelain tile is the grout lines when cleaning, that’s why we recommend industry approved porcelain tile and grout solutions,” says Graham Linton, General Manager of Interior Care.  “This is important as these cleaners already have the proper PH levels and won’t lead to damage as is the case with corrosive and acidic cleaners.”

Porcelain tile care and maintenance

Photo Credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

Interior Care is a member of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring’s partner program. Established in 1964, Interior Care offers a comprehensive client maintenance package. Owned and operated by the Linton family, Interior Care services all types of flooring finishes, including porcelain tile, hardwood, carpet tile and more. Interior Care is one of the largest privately-owned specialty flooring maintenance service businesses in Canada. Staff maintain over 700 corporate offices across Southern Ontario.

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Photo Credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

Porcelain Tile Care: Glazed and Unglazed

Porcelain tile care and maintenance for glazed and unglazed tile is similar for moderate to high foot traffic areas:

  • Loose debris and dirt can simply be swept or vacuumed daily.
  • If water is needed to remove dust/dirt, simply damp mop and dry.
  • If a cleaning solution is required for more stubborn stains – test the area, do not use any abrasive materials to remove the stain and allow to air dry.
  • Before the wipe down and air dry it is important to make sure that the detergent used is completely rinsed away with a second wet mop with clean water.
  • Do not let any industrial cleaning solutions dry on their own without removing and cleaning with fresh water immediately after staining is removed. By following this process, water spots and any streaking or residue that is left by cleaners will be eliminated.

Textured or Patterned Porcelain Tile Care

There are a variety of options with textured or patterned porcelain tile. Many of today’s styles mimic the appearance of wood or stone and have textured surfaces which may hold dirt. This can require extra cleaning time and more chemical solutions. This porcelain tile will also need to be cleaned more frequently as a simple damp mop will not easily remove dirt from crevices.

dental office porcelain tile installatin

Photo Credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

“The cleaning protocol doesn’t really change much between textured, glazed or unpolished surfaces,” says Linton. “Porcelain is a very durable product. It takes a lot to damage the finish. The area that will require the most attention with textured porcelain tile is the grout.”

According to Linton, the same steps apply as above for polished and unpolished porcelain, however when cleaning the grout, if the wrong chemicals are used it can change the colour. The main difference with textured porcelain tile is that a damp mop will not work when there is soiling in and around this surface. Instead, agitation through a rotary scrubbing floor machine with a soft brush attachment will work best.

“Our challenge is the grout lines that are really porous,” says Linton. “These must be addressed with the greatest of care. There is a grout brush we use that is tapered to a point. We agitate all the grout lines then we mop off. We usually spend more time on the grout than on the tile itself.”

porcelain tile for dental office design

Photo Credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

5 Expert Tips for Porcelain Tile Care + Maintenance After Installation

Porcelain Tile Care + Maintenance in dental offices is largely comprised of these 5 steps:

  1. It is wise to use walk off matting systems or entrance throw mats to prevent dirt and debris brought in by foot traffic, especially in inclement weather.
  2. Do not use oil-based detergents, wax sealants or cleaners that will create a coating or build up on tiles or grout. This will damage both surfaces over time.
  3. Do not use any harsh or abrasive cleaners or materials such as steel wool pads, scouring pads, or any item containing that contains metal. These small particles can rust and stain the grout.
  4. Do not use abrasive cleaners such as ammonia, bleach or acid-based solutions as these harsh chemicals can damage the tile finish and may alter the colour of the grout.
  5. Any cleaning solutions should be free of any type of dyes or colour, specifically for unglazed ceramic tile. It is important to note that these agents may also alter grout colour.

By following these 5 expert tips for porcelain tile care and maintenance, your porcelain floor will be maintained in the best condition possible, increasing longevity, while protecting your investment.

For a free consultation on your next dental office flooring installation please click here.

For other flooring news and trend articles, please click here. 

To follow Bellsam Contracting please click here to see their profile page on Instagram.

For more information regarding Interior Care, please click here.

 

8 Benefits For Installing Porcelain Tile in Dental Offices

There are 8 benefits for installing porcelain tile in dental offices from application technology to care and maintenance.

Porcelain tile has become a sought after item for dental healthcare and in the marketplace in general. This trend has been growing and continues to increase in 2023 for a variety reasons. A recent research report from  Research and Markets  released in April 2022, states the global ceramic tiles market is expected to reach USD 656.25 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period.

8 Benefits For Installing Porcelain Tile in Dental Offices

Photo credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

The availability of ceramic tiles in a wide range of products including porcelain, glazed, and scratch-free ceramic tiles, coupled with their superior properties including durability, rigidity, and abrasion resistance, is expected to propel the product demand over the forecast period along with increased demand in construction. The durability and enhanced lifespan offered by these tiles are likely to increase their utility in high-traffic commercial construction applications. Technological advancements in the manufacturing process have introduced customization options in color, size, texture, and dimensions, thus likely gaining high traction in residential and commercial building renovation projects.

Specifically, the demand for porcelain ceramic tile is expected to witness a CAGR of 7.6% over the estimated time due to durability and enhanced aesthetics.

8 Benefits For Installing Porcelain Tile in Dental Offices

Photo Credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

8 Benefits of Installing Porcelain Tile in Dental Offices

In addition to market factors, porcelain tile has become more popular in healthcare settings such as dental offices as it offers many benefits when it comes to high traffic and long-term maintenance.

  1. Porcelain tile is harder and denser than ceramic products and is also highly resistant to damage such as stains, scratches, and chips.
  2.  This tile is also frost and moisture proof.
  3. As porcelain absorbs very little water, it is much easier to clean and disinfect and can withstand harsher solvents.
  4. The finish is protected and requires no polishing, sealing, or waxing and can simply be cleaned with a damp cloth.
  5. Due to the hard finish of this product, porcelain is also a great investment for heavy foot traffic areas as it is very resistant to wear and tear.
  6. Porcelain is digitally printed making the design options virtually endless. Many different types of natural surfaces can be mimicked including wood, stone, and marble.
  7. Products made from porcelain tile are now classified as green solutions and eligible for LEED points.
  8. Since the pandemic it is more sought after as it is much easier to sanitize and clean making it better suited to the healthcare environment.

 

8 Benefits For Installing Porcelain Tile in Dental Offices

Photo Credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

Dental Office Porcelain Tile Care and Maintenance

Porcelain has slightly better water resistance and is easy to clean and maintain by damp-mopping with a mild water-soap solution. Porcelain is made of clays that are less porous than ceramic clays. The hard surface is more impervious to moisture than ceramic tile and increases durability heavy traffic and use areas. Chip a porcelain tile, and the color continues all the way through; as a result, the damage is nearly invisible. Porcelain maintenance only requires a daily damp mop and periodic sealing of the grout lines. As it offers solid color throughout, porcelain tiles are stronger and more durable, and chips are less likely to be visible.

dental office porcelain tile trends

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Darwin Fisher Dental office porcelain tile installation – herringbone pattern

Porcelain Tile and Ceramic – What is the difference?

The differences between porcelain tile and ceramic tile can be confusing. According to the Tile Council of North America, the industry group that decides whether a tile is porcelain or ceramic, everything boils down to whether the tile can meet a set of highly controlled water absorption criteria.

In November 2007, the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA) and the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) launched the Porcelain Tile Certification Agency (PTCA) to certify porcelain tile.

porcelain in dental office

Photo Credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

According to the PTCA,  porcelain tile is defined as an impervious tile with a water absorption of 0.5% or less as measured by the ASTM C373 test method. There is tile being sold in the market which does not meet this standard despite it being advertised and sold as porcelain tile. This has led to marketplace confusion, installation problems and liability concerns due to misrepresentation.

Under the PTCA certification program, manufacturers who want to prove that their tile is porcelain — meeting the 0.5% water absorption criteria — can have their product tested to determine compliance with that requirement. They may then use the PTCA certification mark on their product packaging, marketing materials, etc., as confirmation of that compliance.

dental office flooring trends and porcelain tile

Photo credit: Bellsam Contracting
Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

As you can see from the pictures that accompany this article, dental offices are no longer cold and clinical. There have been many changes over the past several years and it all starts with the flooring.

For more information about dental offices and flooring installation solutions please click here.

To follow Bellsam Contracting please click here to see their profile page on Instagram.

To see a related article about porcelain flooring care + maintenance, please click here.

Levitate Savings For Offices Requiring Hybrid Work Solutions

Levitate delivers significant savings to companies that require hybrid office solutions.

It all starts with the flooring. When employers require long-term reconfiguration of office space to protect employees, while ensuring safe collaboration, Levitate can reduce installation costs by 50%.

In response to Covid-19 and ongoing variants, hybrid office spaces are emerging with new design and functionality demands. See our recent article on 2023 office design trends here.

Levitate carpet installation and hybrid office solutions

Levitate delivers carpet installation savings of 50%

Reconfiguration may seem like a daunting and time consuming task but there are efficient, cost-effective solutions available.

“As the pandemic is demanding change to how offices are designed we are finding ways to help facilitate projects to save our clients time and money,” said Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “When it comes to carpet installation our clients’ concerns automatically relate to both employee protection and project downtime.”

To bypass all of the disruption and expedite a carpet installation project in a quick, efficient time frame, Levitate Furniture Lift System is the solution.

Darwin Fisher has the expertise and skill to take care of all carpet installation needs while minimizing office disruption. In the past, we have worked with companies such as Toronto-based Pusateri’s Fine Foods, the National Football League (Canadian office in Toronto), Mississauga, ON-based IMAX Corporation, various large call centres and many other clients, ranging from small to large organizations.

Levitate gives us the ability to replace carpet without dismantling office workstations, desks and other furniture, in addition to eliminating time-consuming disconnection and reconnection of telephone lines and computer cables.

Levitate and hybrid offices

IMAX carpet tile installation by Darwin Fisher

Levitate is an office furniture lift system which enables Darwin Fisher to re-carpet occupied office areas without the need to remove any furniture when reconfiguring an office area. This solution offers significant savings in time, cost and eliminates lags in office productivity.

Levitate: Cost Savings in Excess of 50%

The associated manpower and skill needed for set up and take down is substantial. Re-carpeting an office area typically entails complex organization and a long list of cost considerations:

  • specialist furniture dismantling
  • removal teams
  • telephone engineers
  • computer technicians
  • storage
  • staff relocation
  • downtime

All of these costs are eliminated with Levitate. The reason? Levitate is a series of custom designed mechanical tools which are placed underneath any type of office furniture to lift it smoothly and safely. The furniture goes up effortlessly and the carpet gets installed properly.

“This is made possible by Levitate’s ‘no jolt’ screw system which raises furniture off of the ground in one smooth, controlled and safe motion,” explains McDonald. “A traditional refit often requires the services of numerous teams of different contractors. We ensure the entire job is handled by one professional Darwin Fisher team that provides a reliable and coordinated and safe approach.”

Levitate: Raise Your Image Without Raising Your Budget

Levitate

Levitate delivers significant savings

Levitate results in the following savings for Darwin Fisher clients:

No downtime

Downtime for many companies means lost business. With Levitate we can replace large areas of carpet overnight rather than waiting to the weekend, helping to keep downtime to an absolute minimum. Your office is left completely intact. When the job is complete, each workstation is in its proper place, computers boot up, personal effects are untouched. The experience is seamless.

No damage

Unlike other office lifting systems Levitate’s unique jack mechanism lifts furniture in one smooth and controlled motion. This “no-jolt” system means that your office will be completely protected throughout the refit.

Commercial Flooring Toronto - Levitate

IMAX carpet tile installation by Darwin Fisher

No disruption

Staff experience a smooth transition with installation. With Levitate there is no need for staff to spend time emptying and refilling desks and filing areas, as their workstations are kept completely intact and simply lifted, while carpet is installed underneath.

No extras

A traditional refit often requires the services of numerous teams of different contractors. With the Levitate system, the whole job is handled by a single professional team, providing a simple, one team approach.

If your office requires a hybrid solution starting with the floor, Darwin Fisher can alleviate the weight of your furniture problem with Levitate.

For more information about your next carpet installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com

For more information about Levitate Furniture Lift System, please click here.

 

 

2023 Top 5 Office Design Trends – From Floor to Ceiling

The 2023 top 5 office trends are based on creating dynamic hybrid environments that are designed to retain existing employees while attracting new ones.

For many employers, the start of the pandemic created changes that were based on cost-effective, short-term refurbishments to improve spaces with a ‘wait and see’ approach to the evolving pandemic. As stability improves, companies are looking to make long-terms change to appease employees, boost performance and overall productivity.

2023 office design trends

Being present in the office full time has become a thing of the past as the new hybrid model is now expected to be the norm. As the demand for workers continues, talented staff are in a position to choose a company that provides them with the flexibility demanded or they will seek another employer.

As a result, employers are trying to entice employees back into the office through these 5 top office design trends:

1. 2023 Top 5 Office Design Trends – Downsizing of Office Space

Many employers are downsizing their buildings and related space to cut real estate costs, and using these savings to invest in their employees.

Decreased operating costs have translated into employers offering new features and increased amenities, through repurposing existing spaces. Open floor plans with a reduction in cubicles allow for the provision of both dynamic workspaces that offer modular couches, chairs, benches, and recreational games tables and other perks.  These new areas consist of cafes, glass partitions and meeting rooms or lounge areas that combine the amenities of home, combined with Zoom booths, phone booths and open planned desks.

2023 Office Design trends

2. 2023 Top 5 Office Design Trends – A Collaborative Hub

While staff now complete much of their focussed work from home, there is still a need for office areas free of distractions. According to Workplace Trends – “Email alerts, social media, people walking by and colleagues on the phone… The list of distractions goes on… This constant stream of disruptions in the workplace are not only annoying, but they are also costly for your business.”

Further research from Visualistan suggests that:

  • An average of 2.1 hours is lost daily because of distractions
  • The average time spent on a task before we get distracted is 11 minutes
  • The amount of time it takes to return to a task after a disruption is 25 minutes

An area that is distraction-free, both acoustically, and visually, is essential. Many office-based workers spend much of the day working in small teams, where they need to be able to communicate but don’t need to be together the entire time. This hybrid of focussed and collaborative work is known as semi-collaborative. This agile kind of working approach has significant benefits for the productivity of employees while providing a unique setting to think, learn and grow.

2023 top office design trends

Employers are now providing these environments to:

  • Provide flexibility
  • Promote collaboration
  • Strengthen company culture
  • Boost productivity through creativity
  • Change work locations to help employees move freely around the office

 

3. 2023 Top 5 Office Design Trends – Options are Key

Open space design offers versatility and productivity which all starts with the flooring.

Whether it’s the floor layout, wall or a living wall, variety is important. This extends to colour scheme options.  No longer are we seeing dull greys and muted offerings. Inspiring colours, starting with carpets, LVT with differing shades on walls to match for keeping stress levels low, prioritizing calm and relaxation or promoting energy.

Neon signs, patterns on the floor, bold paint on the walls and more lively design motifs are becoming standard. Beyond the floors and walls, pops of patterned or bright furniture is also being used to compliment and brighten spaces.

Large format graphics communicate company culture, mission and values and bright uses of large decals  provide brand messaging, inspirational quotes or simple way finding.

Natural light has also become an important part of office redesign which is why glass partitions and doors have become popular as they offer privacy when needed.

Glass partitions glass walls

4. 2023 Top 5 Office Design Trends – Smart building technology

In 2023 and beyond, office technology is about more than laptops and cloud-based systems. Employees now need the ability to carry out high quality hybrid meetings with colleagues and clients across the globe. In the years to come, smart offices will become increasingly popular.

Smart building technology is also transforming the employee relationship with the office. Resource booking software will enable staff to book lockers, desks and hybrid meeting suites. Smart access control systems can enable staff to access areas securely and safely, all controlled by their smartphone. Not only do staff have a better workplace experience, but employers can also gain a better understanding of how people work, enabling future ways to improve the office.

2023 office design trends

5. 2023 Top 5 Office Design Trends – Smart building technology

Sustainable office design has become the new trend for 2023 as businesses source materials from close by reducing the carbon footprint. Recyclable materials have become popular, saving money in addition to using repurposed materials fashioned into stylish, and colourful designs that can brighten up the workplace.

Adding greenery and natural elements into the office have also been a trend that has been shown to improve employee morale.  The incorporation of plants, living walls, wood and stone, water features, water falls for visual impact all while making use of natural light where possible. Natural light is one of the top demands in today’s office interior design as it helps with connecting employees to the outside world.

Many of these office have adopted Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) which has emerged as the leading and most recognized worldwide, green building rating and standards certification system that has provided construction and design specifications to create healthy, highly efficient, resource-conscious buildings.

LEED buildings are constructed to use resources wisely and are less costly to maintain. They are also designed to maximize employee health and productivity by using “fewer resources, reducing waste and negative environmental impacts to decrease lifecycle costs.”

flooring contractors

Design is now encompassing that all possible materials are sustainable. Using FSC certified wood, and non-plastic-based carpet and vinyl flooring are two simple ways to make a difference. Some simple things include:

  • Low VOC flooring and flooring that gets LEED points
  • Water saving features in bathrooms and kitchens
  • Energy efficient appliances for lounge and kitchen areas
  • Energy efficient printers, vending machines
  • Installation of Light-Emitting Diode (LED) light fixtures

Companies are searching for ways to make the office more energy efficient and worker friendly.

This is not achieved simply by recycling anymore; it includes initiatives like the  WELL Building Standard – that extends beyond the building to its inhabitants. focus on the holistic well-being of building occupants which incorporates sustainable design to improve the quality of water, light, and air. See our recent article here.

2023 Top 5 Office Design Trends are Here to Stay

Though there are many overall factors that contribute to office design, these five trends will continue into 2023. As a result, adapting to the new hybrid reality will continue to be the dominating design as the benefits of a hybrid design are threefold: talent attraction & retention, staff productivity, and company performance.

2023 commercial office design trends

What is key is that nearly all focussed work is now done from home, making the new office is being designed to facilitate collaboration and communication that can’t be done effectively at home. This has largely contributed to the modular construction that is designed to support many different working styles — from collaborative teamwork — to singular productivity while reducing carbon footprint from floor to ceiling.

For a free consultation on 2023 office design trends and your next sustainable flooring installation please click here.

Sustainability and Well Buildings

When it comes to sustainability your building or the building you work in may be green – but is it well?

Darwin Fisher works with architects, designers, flooring manufacturers and builders that understand and implement sustainable solutions. This industry demands staying abreast of changes in building standards and how they relate to both the environment and people. The following is a high level overview of how sustainability has progressed over the past 25 years.

sustainable porcelain

Sustainability and building design

Sustainability: A Brief History Starting with Buildings

In the past the sustainability movement began with the focus soley on building efficiencies standards. In 1993, over 25 years ago, the origins of this movement began with the founding of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC ). This is also when the development of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standard began.

LEED emerged as the leading and most recognized worldwide, green building rating and standards certification system that provided construction and design specifications to create healthy, highly efficient, resource-conscious buildings.

Today’s LEED buildings are constructed to use resources wisely and are less costly to maintain. They are also designed to maximize employee health and productivity by using “fewer resources, reducing waste and negative environmental impacts to decrease lifecycle costs.”

sustainability and flooring solutions

Sustainability and WELL Building certification

The Benefits of Sustainability: LEED Certification

According to the organization’s website, there are various benefits of being a LEED recognized organization, including:

  • Faster lease up rates
  • Higher resale value
  • Healthier indoor space
  • Lower use of energy, water and other resources
  • Better for building occupants, the community and the environment
  • Enhances brand
  • Establishes company as a leader in green building
sustainability and LVT

Sustainable building design

Over the past several years there has been continued emphasis on creating better designed, more healthy workplaces to increase collaboration, productivity and overall wellbeing. New research has given way to the next phase of the sustainability movement launched in October 2014. After six years of research and development, The WELL Building Standard was introduced by The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). This newer standard has primarily shifted the focus from the way a building is built to the inhabitants of the building itself.

Sustainability: The Next Phase Focuses on People

The company’s website states it is leading the global movement to transform buildings and communities in ways that help people thrive and is backed scientific research.

The WELL Building standard is divided into seven sections: Air, Water, Nourishment, Light, Fitness, ComfortMind and Innovation.

sustainable lvt and carpet tile

Innovation and sustainable building design

Just recently  WELL v2  certification launched which you can further read about here.

IWBI mobilizes the global wellness community through management of the WELL AP™ credential, convenes a global network of organizations through IWBI membership, pursues applicable research, develops educational resources, and advocates for policies that promote health and wellness.

In summary, a WELL certified building is designed to enhance the health, happiness and productivity of its users. Designers can now create spaces that incorporate solutions that affect the human body, directly impacting human health. By providing healthy, vibrant environments it’s a win-win situation for both companies and employees.

sustainability

How healthy is your building?

For more information on how to become LEED certified or the WELL Building Standard certification, please click the links above.

For a free consultation on your next sustainable flooring installation please click here.

2022 Dental Office Trends: Porcelain Tile Continues to Gain Traction

Dental office porcelain tile installation has continued to increase in 2022 as dentists move away from linoleum and ceramic tile – which is becoming obsolete.

A recent research report from  Research and Markets  released in April of this year, states the global ceramic tiles market is expected to reach USD 656.25 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period.

The availability of ceramic tiles in a wide range of products including porcelain, glazed, and scratch-free ceramic tiles, coupled with their superior properties including durability, rigidity, and abrasion resistance, is expected to propel the product demand over the forecast period along with increased demand in construction. The durability and enhanced lifespan offered by these tiles are likely to increase their utility in high-traffic commercial construction applications. Technological advancements in the manufacturing process have introduced customization options in color, size, texture, and dimensions, thus likely gaining high traction in residential and commercial building renovation projects.

Specifically, the demand for porcelain ceramic tile is expected to witness a CAGR of 7.6% over the estimated time due to durability and enhanced aesthetics.

dental office porcelain tile

Porcelain Tile and Ceramic – What is the difference?

The differences between porcelain tile and ceramic tile can be confusing. According to the Tile Council of North America, the industry group that decides whether a tile is porcelain or ceramic, everything boils down to whether the tile can meet a set of highly controlled water absorption criteria.

In November 2007, the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA) and the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) launched the Porcelain Tile Certification Agency (PTCA) to certify porcelain tile.

According to the PTCA,  porcelain tile is defined as an impervious tile with a water absorption of 0.5% or less as measured by the ASTM C373 test method. There is tile being sold in the market which does not meet this standard despite it being advertised and sold as porcelain tile. This has led to marketplace confusion, installation problems and liability concerns due to misrepresentation.

Commercial flooring contractor Toronto

Under the PTCA certification program, manufacturers who want to prove that their tile is porcelain — meeting the 0.5% water absorption criteria — can have their product tested to determine compliance with that requirement. They may then use the PTCA certification mark on their product packaging, marketing materials, etc., as confirmation of that compliance.

Dental Office Porcelain Tile: Six Benefits that Increase Demand

Porcelain tile has become more popular because it offers many benefits when it comes to high traffic and long-term maintenance.

  1. Porcelain tile is harder and denser than ceramic products and are also highly resistant to damage such as stains, scratches, and chips.
  2.  This tile is also frost and moisture proof.
  3. As porcelain absorbs very little water, it is much easier to clean and disinfect. If stronger chemicals are required, it can withstand harsher solvents.
  4. The finish is protected and requires no polishing, sealing, or waxing and can been cleaned with a damp cloth.
  5. Due to the hard finish of this product, porcelain is also a great investment for heavy foot traffic areas, as it is very resistant to wear and tear.
  6. Porcelain is digitally printed making the design options virtually endless. Many different types of natural surfaces can be mimicked including wood, stone, and marble

 

Dental office flooring

Dental Office Porcelain Tile Care and Maintenance

Porcelain has slightly better water resistance and is easy to clean and maintain by damp-mopping with a mild water-soap solution. Porcelain is made of clays that are less porous than ceramic clays. The hard surface is more impervious to moisture than ceramic tile and increases durability heavy traffic and use areas. Chip a porcelain tile, and the color continues all the way through; as a result, the damage is nearly invisible. Porcelain maintenance only requires a daily damp mop and periodic sealing of the grout lines. As it offers solid color throughout, porcelain tiles are stronger and more durable, and chips are less likely to be visible.

Dental Office Porcelain Tile Popular but LVT is Still in Demand

Despite new demand for porcelain tile, LVT is still a highly sought-after material as it can replicate the appearance of natural stone or wood but will not wear like natural materials. It won’t chip or discolour and will not expand and contract as wood does in humid or dry seasons. It can also replicate wood and stone at a fraction of the price. Products made from 100% vinyl and porcelain tile are now classified as green solutions and eligible for LEED points. LVT is also more economical from an initial cost perspective (supply + install) over porcelain tile and ceramic.

commercial flooring contractors Toronto

LVT is still quite popular as it offers superior thermal and acoustic properties in comparison to hard surface flooring. Plus, it’s easy to maintain and repair. Since the pandemic these flooring options are also more sought after as they are much easier to sanitize and clean making them better suited to the healthcare environment.

dental office flooring trends

Dental Office Trends: LVT Has Benefits in Terms of Standing

Loose lay LVT has many of the same performance attributes of traditional LVT but goes above and beyond with other benefits that make it a better option. Loose lay is also fast becoming an ideal product for raised access flooring that are typical to new office builds. It can be easily removed and replaced when needed to areas that require constant or frequent access. Its flexibility allows it to be adapted to be installed over other existing flooring materials for retrofits. It is also now thick enough that it can be laid to be flush with other products in the area such as carpet, hardwood or tile if required for transition areas in dental office flooring.

Due the fact that it requires minimal adhesive when compared to traditional LVT, Loose lay has also become the preferred flooring choice as it is easier to install, remove and replace in terms of maintenance and spot fixing if required. Loose lay also offers better acoustic properties than traditional LVT. The thickness and textured surface help to absorb sounds which is also ideal for optimizing privacy between patient examination areas.

dental office trends

Dental Offices Continue to Have a Residential Feel

One of the first concepts to consider before all else is the flooring for a new build or retrofit. It will dictate the tone as it will set the style and comfort a dentist wants for his/her patients.

As you can see from the pictures that accompany this article, dental offices are no longer cold and clinical. There have been many changes over the past several years and it all starts with the flooring which has trended largely towards LVT and porcelain tile in the last few years.

For more information about dental offices and flooring installation solutions please contact info@darwinfisher.com

To see a related article regarding commercial flooring trends, click here.

 

 

 

3 Top Tips for Flooring Care + Winter Planning

These top tips for winter carpet care and planning will help to protect your employees, building visitors, and long-term flooring investment. They will also provide a cleaner building environment.

All carpets become soiled, especially those in entrance ways where foot traffic is at a maximum. Some facilities maintenance plans are based on a set schedule, while others are only cleaned when the carpets appear to be soiled. As the winter months are soon approaching you will want to start planning for what matting or carpet entryway system will work best for your building.

winter tips for carpet care

Tips for winter carpet care

Types of Carpet Systems – Which One Is Best for You?

There are many ways that soil and debris are brought into a building which is why it makes sense to have a walk off carpet system or matting system in place.

For example, the Steppin Out walk-off collection from Shaw Contract is engineered with a rough texture that traps up to 80% of soil and moisture brought into a facility.

The advantage of these types of systems is that they won’t move, buckle, or pucker which helps to reduce the risk of an employee or visitor falling or tripping. Matting and walk off systems also help to extend the life of a building’s installed flooring as it traps dirt and moisture on an ongoing basis. This offers good protection regardless of the flooring installed and reduces maintenance needs.

Another example is Pedimat Entry Mat Systems by Construction Specialties.

3 top carpet care tips

Pedimat Entry System

The company describes Pedimat entrance matting as “engineered for quiet performance, thanks to the combination of lightweight rails and strong aluminum hinge connectors, allowing them to be rolled up for easy cleaning and maintenance.”

Entrance matting systems are also quite beneficial. They tend to trap a lot more debris and will soil much quicker than carpets that exist on upper floors. The same applies to carpets near exits, loading docks, private staff entrances or any other high traffic areas, which need more protection from debris and moisture.

winter matting

Pedimat Entry System

3 Top Tips for Flooring Care + Winter Planning

A cleaning schedule based on when carpets appear soiled may be missing the mark. A build-up of debris can act as an abrasive, which can affect floor finishes, carpet fibres and materials and cause fading over time.

Winter tends to increase this risk as salt and sand are used around icy entrances. During these months, due to constant exposure of moisture there is also a higher risk for mold, mildew, and bacterial growth.

For winter carpet care and to protect your employees and flooring it makes sense to start planning now.

pedimat walk off systems

Pedimat Entry System

Darwin Fisher’s trusted partner program offers a comprehensive client maintenance package through Toronto-based Interior Care. Established in 1964 and operated by the Linton family, Interior Care is in its third generation, and one of the largest privately-owned specialty cleaning services in Canada.

Staff maintain over 700 corporate offices in Southern Ontario, cleaning more than 10 million square feet of carpet each month. “Our maintenance plans remove embedded dust and allergens not reachable by your daily vacuum service,” says Graham Linton, General Manager of Interior Care.

interior care cleaning Interior Care service technicians are required to maintain their certification status by attending three annual, two-day Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification ( IICRC ) instructed in-class programs. Everyone is required to maintain a passing grade of 80% as part of their ongoing training.

“For top tips for winter carpet care, regularly maintained carpet tile by an IICRC certified firm will ensure a healthier environment for your employees,” explains Linton. This is especially important through Covid. “Regular carpet care (as specified by all carpet manufacturers) can increase carpet investment two to four years past the expected eight to 10-year life expectancy. When ignored, abrasive and gritty soiling wears on fibre which shortens appearance retention and can cause premature wear over time.”

Top tips for winter carpet care:

1.     Determine Traffic Levels and Associated Requirements

This is reliant on several factors including:

  • Office traffic and number of employees
  • Colour of the carpet (lighter carpets show more dirt and spills)
  • Level of appearance required (i.e., a professional law firm vs a gym)
  • The actual location of the carpet that requires cleaning (entrance as opposed to second floor).
matting systems

Building entrance matting systems

2.     Choose the Type of Matting or Walk Off Carpet System Suitable for the Space

  • As outlined above there are many different types of systems available including walk off systems and matting systems.
  • Make a decision about what system is right for your building before winter months where ice and precipitation can increase the risk of trips, slips and falls.

3.     Decide on a Plan – Scheduled Maintenance Benefits

  • It’s wise during winter months to increase cleaning both inside and outside the building. Keeping sidewalks and driveways clear.
  • Increasing carpet vacuuming frequency is important for all entrance matting systems.
  • This may be required daily with higher traffic locations requiring several times a day to prevent soiling and debris build up.
  • Where possible, carpets should be completely lifted and cleaned under neath as well.
  • Daily spot removal where required is also beneficial.
  • Linton’s team will visit the client on location and develop a maintenance plan for monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly service. This is determined by the appropriate level of maintenance required for the specified space.
tips for winter carpet care

Carpet entry system

All facilities should have a carpet care cleaning and maintenance plan in place both during the winter months and throughout the rest of year. Taking a proactive approach keeps carpets clean and healthy and extends the life of carpets. This can also mean that funds that might be used to replace carpets can be used for other purposes—a good idea during tough financial times.

Darwin Fisher and Interior Care supply custom fit traffic matting which has two purposes:

  1. Prevent slips and falls on a wet hard floor
  2. To absorb wet soiling specifically in winter. Each step on a traffic mat removes a high percentage of wet soiling that would otherwise be absorbed into the office carpet tile – another preventative maintenance step to better protect overall investment

See our other news articles outlining how to protect your flooring investment as we profile different applications throughout the remainder of the year.

For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com

For more information regarding Interior Care, please click here.

Top Ways to Care for Your Luxury Vinyl Tile After Installation

Today we are examining top luxury vinyl tile (LVT) care and cleaning tips as this highly sought after flooring option offers the perfect combination of durability and affordability when properly maintained.

LVT is popular in healthcare settings, schools, and commercial spaces. It has gained traction over vinyl composite tile (VCT) because it is a much lower maintenance application that has a long lifespan.

According to Healthcare Facilities Today for one school, the switch from VCT to LVT saved them $77,941 within 10 years.

Top LVT Care and cleaning tips

Darwin Fisher LVT installation at IMAX

Why is LVT Popular for both Designers and Facility Managers?

Luxury vinyl floors can provide any space with the rich look of natural materials such as hardwood or stone.

“We encounter designers who like to regularly specify LVT on new construction and remodels due to the extensive design possibilities offered in addition to the finishes,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “As it is a low maintenance product, it also appeals to facilities owners and their maintenance management teams.”

LVT

Photo credit: Mannington Commercial

While it is a very forgiving flooring application, LVT does come with a few challenges. Proper maintenance is a key factor and it’s important that the designated care company or facilities team is educated about the application properties and what cleaning approaches are best to use.

Top LVT Care and Cleaning Tips

LVT comes equipped with a wear layer, which can get damaged or scratched with regular wear. As a result, many manufacturers suggest simple protection such as pads under furniture and chairs to mitigate scratches and dents.

As LVT is often textured as it is designed to simulate real surfaces like hardwood or stone, it can be harder to clean. However, these patterns and ridges are helpful in terms of slipping, skidding and offer better slip-resistance over a smoother floor surface such as porcelain or ceramic.

LVT care

Darwin Fisher LVT installation at IMAX Headquarters

Most of the LVT manufactures recommend a regular dust mopping and wet cleaning to maintain the appearance and lifespan in addition to a cleaner that is near neutral pH for regular wet cleaning.

Caring for LVT – Maintenance Schedules

Newly installed LVT may look like it’s made from hardwood, but care and maintenance require a different approach. There are several different ways to care for LVT over the course of its lifespan.

Commercial Flooring TorontoTop LVT Care and Cleaning Tips – LVT Routine Maintenance

For routine maintenance, LVT simply requires a vacuum or dust mop. This will help to prevent debris from grinding into and marking LVT’s surface layer. If there are any liquids spilled, they should be mopped up or wiped away immediately using a cleaner specifically for LVT floors. Wet mopping can be applied daily or weekly depending on traffic levels and precipitation in the area.

Top LVT Care and cleaning tips

Photo Credit: Mannington Commercial, Layers of LVT

The wear layer varies in terms of thickness and it’s important that the thickness be chosen in conjunction with the application at hand or problems can surface in terms of floor traffic and long-term wear.

Whenever cleaning LVT always start in dry mode, sweeping away the loose dirt and debris from your floors prevents it from getting stuck to your mop when it’s time for a deeper clean. A vacuum cleaner in place of a broom also works well if the bare floor setting is used.

Commercial Flooring TorontoCommercial Flooring TorontoTop LVT Care and Cleaning Tips – Periodic Maintenance

This will again depend on traffic, however periodically your LVT should be cleaned using a neutral cleaner and auto scrubber and then rinsed with water.

If required, this can be followed by buffing to remove scuffs. This is one reason that routine maintenance is important as it will prevent the dirt from being ground into the flooring surface by the scrubber.

Following these steps will protect your LVT and keep the flooring properties intact. However, there are certain thing that should not be used when caring for LVT.

Top LVT Care and Cleaning Tips – Chemical Use

According to Multi-Clean, traditional neutral floor cleaners are often recommended for cleaning LVT flooring. “Owing to their mild nature, these conventional products may not provide the cleaning horsepower needed to clean textured LVT surfaces. Dirt tends to collect in the low spots of the textured surface making it hard to clean while detracting from overall appearance.”

However, the company goes on to say that modern technology is allowing neutral cleaners to be strengthened using naturally occurring enzymes that help break down soils.  These bio-enzyme cleaners are still near neutral in pH but exhibit better overall cleaning performance.  Like neutral floor cleaners, the bio-enzyme cleaners don’t leave a significant residue and do not require rinsing. Owing to their better cleaning performance, these cleaners can be classified by UL for slip resistance.

LVT care and maintenance

Photo Credit: Mannington Commercial LVT

In a recent Mannington Commercial article the company states “LVT does not need a floor finish therefore, we see a reduction of chemistry, water, and man-hours in maintaining these floors. In fact, we’ve found we can successfully reduce chemical and water use by 40 percent when the right products and processes are implemented.”

Mannington recommends a microfibre mop as it doesn’t absorb liquids, unlike flat mops or string mops which hold a lot more chemicals, which leads to over saturating the floor. This can leave a residue that the company states can attract more soil and creates a cyclical process, contaminating areas that don’t have foot traffic as dirty water is pushed around.

Top LVT Care and Cleaning Tips – What to Avoid

  • Never use any ammonia-based cleaners as it can end up damaging and cracking the vinyl flooring.
  • Never steam-clean vinyl flooring as the heat can cause LVT to warp
  • Never use anything that is abrasive such as steel wool or harsh scrubbers as it can permanently damage the tile beyond being able to be buffed out. This will also increase the lifespan of the flooring

Scratching of LVT flooring is a real possibility. Applying a rejuvenator to the flooring can hide existing scratches and other blemishes while protecting the floor from further scratching. Best of all, the rejuvenator makes floors easier to clean. The protector is an ultra-thin shield that doesn’t build up on LVT flooring.

While some facilities may apply a conventional floor finish to LVT this is considered an option and not recommended as there can be a build up over time on the finished floor which eventually will affect how it looks and performs.

Mannington also states using the same old chemicals, equipment and techniques aren’t an effective cleaning solution on newer hard surface floors like LVT or resilient sheet vinyl.

LVT

Photo Credit: Mannington Commercial, LVT looks like stone

Mannington offers Quantum Guard Elite and Quantum Guard HP, a proprietary technology that is naturally stain resistant and requires no-polish maintenance that significantly reduces overall life cycle cost and total cost of ownership. “If you’re a facilities manager struggling to see results after cleaning your floor with old techniques, consider switching to the right microfiber pad, water, and a bit of agitation to solve the problem with even heavily soiled flooring products,” states the company.

There are several options when it comes to LVT flooring maintenance depending on a many different factors including traffic. Your reputable flooring contractor will assist you with the best maintenance approach for your specific situation.

See our other news articles outlining how to protect your flooring investment as we profile different applications throughout the remainder of the year.

For a free consultation on your next LVT flooring installation please contact us here.

 

 

Top 5 Reasons to Install LVT For Your Next Commercial Flooring Project 

The five top reasons to install LVT are largely due to technology application advances that have made it a long lasting, durable option.

Here we examine each reason in more detail:

Reason 1: LVT and Application Pattern Technology

LVT is highly sought-after commercial flooring choice as designers are drawn to new sizes, patterns, colours and format options as application technology progresses.

LVT is an extremely versatile flooring choice as it can replicate the appearance of natural stone or wood but offer much better long-term wear. LVT is also more economical from an initial cost perspective (supply + install) over ceramic.

LVT, due to the way it’s made, won’t chip, or discolour and will not expand and contract as wood does in humid or dry seasons. Advances in technology offer the look of real wood or stone at a much lower price point.

Top reasons to install LVT

Darwin Fisher LVT installation at Entertainment One

Reason 2: LVT is a Sustainable Solution

Products that are made from 100% vinyl are now able to be classified as green solutions and eligible for LEED points. Technology has significantly changed over time in terms of sustainability and newer waterproof finishes that are based on wood plastic composite have become available.

In a recent article we featured in April why LVT has hit the top spot in the resilient flooring sector and why its market share continues to grow.  According to San Francisco, CA-based, Grand View Research, LVT accounted for more than 38% share of global revenue in 2020. Grand View also reports global resilient flooring market was estimated at USD 38.7 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2021 to 2028.

While COVID-19 created worldwide supply chain management issues impacted economies worldwide, there has now been an upturn. That change is forecast to lead to future growth as the market recovers and demand of sustainable solutions increases due to LVTs low environmental impact.

Reason 3: LVT Is Easy to Install and Maintain

Newer technologies have also made LVT easier to install and maintenance, resulting in cost savings over time. For these reasons it has been adopted across a wide range of industry verticals including retail, healthcare, education, entertainment, and hospitality.

“LVT has become our most popular flooring installation choice,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “More than 80% of our clients are demanding LVT which is a big departure from the past. Carpet tile sits in second place, respectively. We are now installing a lot of LVT in healthcare, specifically the dental office and orthodontist segments.”

dental office flooring trends

LVT and healthcare

Reason 4: LVT Performs Better Acoustically

Flooring decisions in healthcare depend on how it will affect patients, safety, indoor air quality and infection control. Floor surfaces also need to be slip resistant and offer smooth transitions from one area to another for staff/patients and related equipment. Part of the reason beyond new finishes and designs, is that these technologies offer sound transmission protection. Dentists and doctors stress the need for soundproofing. Walls, ceiling, and flooring materials selected need to help protect patient privacy and hinder sound travel. LVT performs better acoustically when compared to ceramic tile.

McDonald goes on to explain that LVT is taking off in virtually all sectors not just healthcare. “From office buildings to restaurants to student residences – it’s in considerable demand and being used with varying applications.”

Reason 5: LVT is Made of Five Unique Layers

Five more reasons to install LVT is based on how it’s made. There are 5 distinct layers:

  1. Polyurethane coating (sometimes re-enforced with ceramic bead, silica bead or aluminum oxide) to improve durability
  2. Protective clear layer known as the ‘wear layer’
  3. Print film layer (with your chosen design)
  4. Vinyl core
  5. Vinyl backing
LVT leads resilient flooring segment

LVT gaining popularity in commercial construction

This results in a flooring solution that is easy to install, durable and easy to clean and maintain. Typically, LVT wear layers range from 20-28 mm of thickness for commercial installation projects, with thickness selected based on requirements from low through to high foot traffic areas. (i.e., low traffic office space as opposed to building entrance areas).

LVT is protected by a clear layer which helps to maintain its appearance over long periods of time. The protective layer doesn’t need regular waxing and polishing like VCT. However, this top layer will wear over time and may need to be reapplied for heavy traffic areas.

The wear layer varies in terms of thickness. Thickness must be chosen in conjunction with the traffic area as heavy, long-term wear will affect appearance.  It is less likely to scuff, indent or scratch with regular use and wear and tear traffic and furniture moving. This makes it a solid flooring investment choice for the long-term, combined with the fact that it requires very little maintenance.

5 Top Reasons to Install LVT and Research

There are several different types of LVT products on the market. Many manufacturers offer different performance ratios from one product to another. This includes the surface of the product, to the type of backing used, in addition to thickness of the tiles.

Ensure your flooring installer is knowledgeable of the differences, quality and applications that would best suit your environment, including projected wear from foot traffic/furniture, installation, and maintenance and acoustic considerations.

For more information about LVT flooring installation solutions please fill out this form on our website or email us directly at info@darwinfisher.com.

 

Project Management: 6 Top Steps for Successful Installation

Project management has always been our most important service offering. For over 18 years we have executed very large, complex projects to small installations. Our proven process ensures your installation experience is seamless, while offering minimal disruption to your employees.

As we continually work with end users, general contractors, property managers, interior designers, and architects our project management process is comprehensive. Here is our 6-step process which delivers minimal disruption to our clients while providing quality installation.

6 Key Project Management Steps for Successful Flooring Installation

  1. Assessment

Our seasoned staff understands the intricacies involved with many different types of corporate flooring environments. We first assess the needs of your project via an onsite visit. This helps us mitigate the possible issues that can arise by examining the flooring surface. We then determine the preparation and materials required.

preparing commercial flooring

Preparing the area for LVT installation.

“The biggest concern our clients want us to address is the associated logistics,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “We offer minimal disruption to our clients. This includes understanding the details of site preparation, installation, and post maintenance issues that make each job unique. We thoroughly investigate each challenge, pairing it with a solution customized to fit our client’s exact needs.”

  1. Scope and Materials

Once we have collected all of the requirements, we recommend products that are optimal for your site. We then provide a detailed plan with an associated budget related to project execution. We use software which creates a graphic representation of how the materials are applied to the floor plan. These colour coded plans help our clients to easily conceptualize what is being proposed.

Project management and flooring

  1. Budgeting and Planning

Our software then allows us to produce line item proposals for our clients. This is used to track the status of the project as it moves through the implementation cycle. This is especially critical when timelines are constantly moving or when the circumstances associated with a specific installation change. It’s also an important tool for closely tracking a project and costs when there are fluctuating changes due to other trades on site.

As part of this process, product performance/cost ratios are provided to clients to ensure that the budget meets all project parameters. After the product is chosen, verification samples are provided to confirm the product is representative of what the designer/client requires. This eliminates any material errors before work starts.

LVT installation toronto

Project management: Budgeting and planning

  1. On-Site Project Management

When the project is initiated, materials are ordered and delivered to the warehouse. See why this is important in our previous blog post and how it helped our client – Pusateri’s Fine Foods.

We’ve made our warehouse an integral part of our operations as it not only acts a place to store product but offers a location to prepare and ship orders. Inventory management is important as it offers a wide array of benefits. This provides extra value to our customers as it allows for the right product to be available and delivered to the right place, at that right time.

commercial flooring contractors toronto

Final LVT finishes

Darwin Fisher projects are generally turnkey but if delays are encountered, including equipment, electrical and plumbing problems, project timelines can become offset. The warehouse ensures a project will run smoothly as it provides the flexibility to have both materials and experts on site at a moment’s notice.

Once the project begins, we continually make sure our project managers are on site to offer proactive solutions should any problems arise. Pictured above is our Fuzion Flooring LVT product installation for Procon Construction. Our seasoned staff work with all on-site trades/contractors assigned. This ensures transparent co-ordination of activities, while meeting schedules and budget demands. We are always there to answer questions and to make sure the project is running according to plan. By continually being an onsite resource for our client, any issues can be dealt with quickly.

  1. Post Installation

Once the project is complete, we accompany our client on a site walk through to ensure all project specifications are met. Our goal is to have our client completely satisfied with the final result. To see examples of our client work please click here.

  1. Warranty

Our clients are then provided with the flooring maintenance requirements and warranty manuals for all products installed. Although, the project may by complete, our after-service commitment to our clients is ongoing to ensure the highest quality and customer satisfaction for partner network.

For information on your next commercial build or renovation, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

 

Commercial Flooring and the Pandemic: 4 Top Trends

The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the commercial flooring industry with issues ranging from supply chain delays to volatile pricing of raw materials due to unstable crude oil prices.

Many of these challenges can be attributed to four key trends, which will continue into the foreseeable future:

  1. Supply Chain Management Impacting Flooring Products and Building Materials

The pandemic has severely hampered supply chains which impact flooring products and building materials.

“Three or four week lead times used to be common, now we’re hearing twelve to eighteen weeks and some manufacturers have had to drop a product line entirely due to supply chain disruptions,”  Amanda Darley, Vice President of Marketing at Mannington Commercial noted in a recent company article.

supply chain management impact on commercial flooring

Supply chain management impacts on flooring and building materials.

What is happening to create these challenges?

  • Labour shortages

Many jobs have shifted from office to home-based. Also, many aging workers decided to retire or people voluntarily quit resulting in many industries experiencing worker shortages. This has taken place as demand for workers is rising and economies begin to reopen.

Changing demographics are a factor behind the shortages, according to economists, as well as border controls and immigration limits. Workers are also demanding better pay and more flexible working arrangements.

  • Raw Material Shortages

Raw materials disruptions, from lack of workers and supply chain issues have also delayed delivery of product. Items such as adhesives and resins used to make many flooring products are in short supply and impact flooring products.

In addition, the volatility in the prices of raw materials including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) due to unstable crude oil prices is also negatively impacting the market.

  • International Shipping and Transport Delays

The Washington Post recently reported that the world’s 1.89 million seafarers operate more than 74,000 merchant ships, providing transportation for roughly 90% of global trade. It’s an essential job, but also a lonely and dangerous one that requires months at sea, often with little ability to contact home or touch land.

The article went on to say that Covid worsened many of these floating workplaces, and seafarers worldwide are now rethinking their commitment to the trade. Industry leaders have warned that the pandemic will make it more difficult for them to hire workers for years to come.  As a result, the global supply chain could soon face a more debilitating challenge: a chronic labor shortage.

Compounding this problem is that ocean freight vessels and containers are limited in supply, and prices have skyrocketed. In addition to sea there’s also a problem on land. The shortage of truck drivers combined with increased shipping demand is stalling delivery times.

  1. Growth in the Resilient Segment

Commercial flooring and the ongoing pandemic has impacted specific segments. Until recently the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted worldwide supply as economies across the globe either delayed or suspended construction projects. However, as global trade restrictions ease and lockdowns lift, this year is expected to be the recovery year that leads to future growth.

Construction activity is now resuming and increasing, which is driving this growth , along with the commercial availability of resilient products.

A recent resilient flooring market report reveals luxury vinyl tile (LVT) accounted for more than 38% share of global revenue in 2020. LVT popularity is increasing due to advancements in design, technology, installation and its antimicrobial properties.

LVT leads resilient flooring segment

Market growth in the resilient segment.

  1. Increased Disinfection + Cleaning

As COVID-19 continues, there’s an increased emphasis on maintaining flooring with services that are designed to keep floors clean—and virus-free. From protocols, to equipment and disinfectants, there’s plenty to consider when deciding on the proper cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting of commercial flooring, states Floor Trends Magazine in a recent article.

Part of the resilient market growth mentioned above is coming from increased demand for slip-resistant and antibacterial flooring solutions.

Covid-19 flooring disinfection

Increased disinfection and cleaning of flooring in commercial spaces.

Resilient flooring applications are easier to maintain and sterilize. For example, LVT, is both cheaper than laminate or wood veneer and contains the spread of germs better as it has antimicrobial properties built into the finishing process.

Cork is an also sustainable, eco-friendly material that’s also naturally antimicrobial and water resistant. Ceramic tile can help prevent the spread of germs. There are also products being introduced with ceramic tile and grout infused with Microban technology, to protect against bacterial growth.

However, more data is still needed about how chemicals will affect interior finishes as there aren’t enough long-term studies regarding how these disinfectants will affect specific materials.  Flooring manufacturers need to provide more information about what chemicals can be safely used on floor surfaces as the increased need for disinfection continues . There’s not a lot of knowledge about what these disinfectants do to hard surfaces long term. Over time these issues could impact warranty.

  1. Increased Demand for Sustainable Solutions

Governments across the globe are launching sustainability initiatives that are expected to impact the future market and this commercial flooring trend has increased through the pandemic.

Key findings from a Reports and Data report reveals how government regulations restrict any use of harmful flooring materials and mandate producers to abide by the Leadership in Energy, and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for the Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions are increasing the scope of the market.

Flooring suppliers have been also been emphasizing sustainable products. Sustainability has been an expanding driver of growth in LVT due to the product’s length of service life, sourcing, ease of care and maintenance and associated health and safety benefits.

“I will say that there are signs that this has really galvanized the sustainability movement in a new way,” said Lisa Conway, vice president of sustainability Americas for Interface, in a recent interview with Floor Covering Weekly. “There is nothing like a major global disruption to show us that we need [to] take the present climate change threat more seriously. Seeing the pandemic unfold worldwide has brought home the reality that our interconnected global society is more vulnerable than we realized.”

sustainable flooring solutions

Increased demand for sustainable solutions.

In the article, Conway further explained that “As more people understand that the built environment contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions that lead to global warming, we’re seeing the desire for low-carbon, carbon neutral and carbon negative building materials increase, especially within the commercial market,” from LVT to carpet tile.

Many leading flooring manufacturers agree that this trend will continue well into the future due to the ongoing pandemic. This will be a process that takes patience and ongoing communication. Managing expectations as lead times and deliverables are impacted will be key.

To see related articles regarding commercial flooring and the pandemic please click here.

For more information about flooring installation solutions please contact us here.

Global Resilient Flooring Market Report Reveals LVT in Top Spot

A recent resilient flooring market report reveals luxury vinyl tile (LVT) accounted for more than 38% share of global revenue in 2020.

The global resilient flooring market size was estimated at USD 38.7 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2021 to 2028, according to San Francisco, CA-based, Grand View Research.

global resilient flooring market

Key Factors Driving the Resilient Market

The key factors driving the resilient flooring market include increased construction in residential and commercial segments, combined with the growing need for long lasting, durable flooring.

Increased activity in the construction sector along with demand for building improvements is also anticipated to increase demand for resilient flooring over the forecast period. Resilient products are highly sought after due to their long-term wear, low environmental impact, and ease of maintenance.

The development of environmentally-friendly solutions will also fuel industry growth, along with technological advances such as waterproof finishes (wood plastic composite).

The segment that dominated the largest market share in 2020 was vinyl sheet and floor tile products at 42.0%, due to commercial-wide application.

The Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Market

The report further states the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted worldwide supply as economies across the globe either delayed or suspended construction projects.  However, as global trade restrictions ease and lockdowns lift, this year is expected to be the recovery year that leads to future growth.

The market in the U.S. is expected to grow due to the commercial availability of resilient products and rapid advances in installation techniques, coupled with the rising demand for sustainable and environmental materials. Innovation in construction based resilient applications are anticipated to impact the market favourably.

The report further states, that the high initial investment for flooring facility is anticipated to pose barrier for new company entrants. This compounded with the volatility in the price of raw materials, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC), due to the instability in crude oil prices, is expected to negatively influence industry growth.

Product Insights Related to the Global Resilient Flooring Market

LVT popularity is increasing due to advancements in design and technology. New sizes, formats, and patterns, combined with the fact that it is easy to install and less costly to maintain over time, makes it appealing to a variety of industry verticals and residential applications.

“We have definitely seen and can corroborate this trend at Darwin Fisher,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “LVT is by far our biggest market. Every job is demanding LVT. We are still installing carpet tile also, but that application has not grown like LVT.”

In a recent article we featured additional research and market trends as to why LVT popularity and market share continues to grow. See LVT.

“The main thing we’ve noticed is that this increase isn’t restricted to one sector,” explains McDonald. “It’s everywhere – corporate offices, industrial buildings, student residences and so forth. It’s not one sector and is being used in a lot of different applications with varying qualities.”

The vinyl sheet and floor tile segment are also projected to significantly grow over the forecast period due to the advancement in water-resistant technology. Moreover, low maintenance costs and the long lifespan of the products are likely to increase the popularity of the products in residential end-use like laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and moisture-prone areas.

The report states that in comparison to vinyl solutions, linoleum products have better longevity and durability. These flooring applications and products are manufactured using jute resin, flax plant, limestone, and wood flour that makes them 100% biodegradable. The increasing importance of waste management and recycling in developed economies including the U.S., U.K., and Germany, is anticipated to increase demand for biodegradable flooring materials.

Rubber used in commercial resilient flooring spaces is popular for its slip-resistant properties which make it suitable for high traffic areas. There are also natural and synthetic rubber floor tiles that are used in health clubs and other high-impact areas.

Application Insights Related to the Resilient Flooring Market

When looking at the breakdown between residential and non-residential segments, as seen in the chart below, Grand View Research reports non-residential accounted for more than 64.2% of the global revenue share in 2020. Contributing factors to this market segment growth include ease of maintenance, sterilization, and slip and water resistance properties.

LVT installation global resilient flooring market

A growing population coupled with a rise in demand for single-family and multi-family residential spaces in major economies such as India, China, South Africa, Turkey, and Middle Eastern economies are projected to increase demand. Grand View attributes this growth to rising disposable income and availability of home loans.

Regional Insights Related to the Resilient Flooring Market

North America dominated the market and accounted for over 33.0% share of global revenue in 2020. This was largely due to rising demand for residential applications, an extensively developed manufacturing industry, and government initiatives to develop social infrastructure across the region.

In Asia Pacific, China dominated the market owing to rising construction projects, higher adoption of LVT, vinyl sheets & floor tiles, and rubber flooring, in residential as well as non-residential construction projects. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, in Q3 2020, the construction industry grew by 2% in China, following year over year declines of 1.9% in Q2 and 17.5% in Q1 2020.

The growth of the market in Central and South America is attributed to growth in emerging economies including Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Peru. Rising consumer awareness regarding the benefits of appropriate flooring and the presence of key manufacturers such as Mannington Mills, Inc., Armstrong Flooring, Inc., and Milliken is projected to have a major impact also.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights Related to the Global Resilient Flooring Market

Some of the leading players are continually developing new products which are aesthetically pleasing and offer technological application advances which increase performance and long-term wear. These players also work with with emerging entrants to develop low-cost products to gain competitive advantage.

Tarkett S.A. and Mohawk Industries, Inc. are identified as the front leaders with a large number of subsidiaries operating around the world. Tarkett S.A, based in Europe, caters to a wide range of flooring products, including resilient and non-resilient, globally. Mohawk, based in North America, has with numerous subsidiaries including IVC Group, Unilin, Pergo, etc., which account for a significant share of the global market. The leading players according to Grand View, include:

Global Resilient Flooring Market Report Scope

 

LVT flooring

For  more information regarding Grand View Research’s methodology please click here.

To see related articles regarding commercial flooring trends please click here.

For more information about flooring installation solutions please contact us here.

Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractors: 8 Critical Things to Look For

Finding a reputable commercial flooring contractor may seem like a daunting task, however, it’s not difficult if you know what to look for. It’s important to do your due diligence which extends beyond  a simple Google search.

There are many things to consider to ensure your final installation choice is a sound one. Reputable commercial flooring contractors have a proven track record in delivering a variety of solutions for distinct commercial spaces. Professionals with this expertise understand the challenges and demands of different types of projects spanning from renovations to new builds. They will be able to handle all aspects from design right through to installation.

A reputable commercial flooring contractor will be the one who will offer options, point out pitfalls and educate you so that your project is a success. Below we have outlined 8 key things to look for that will ensure your needs are met and that the project is a success – including the firm’s longevity, past history, product knowledge and overall service offering.

1. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Shows Project Work and Shares References

Finding a contractor is more than a Google search that offers options nearest you. A firm with a good reputation and references to share is a good first start.

Natural Stone Commercial Flooring Toronto

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring IMAX installation

You will want to ensure that they are adept at surveying the location in question and how that relates to the type of flooring to be installed. They will examine any possible flooring concerns through an initial onsite meeting.

2. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Stays on Time and on Budget

Your contractor will help in evaluating product performance/cost ratios to ensure a budget meets all the targets of a project.

reputable commercial flooring contractors

Make sure your contractor will ensure a budget meets all the targets of a project.

Proposals should provide line item budgets that capture the detail of site preparation and installation factors, post installation maintenance and the many details that make a job unique. This approach ensures the tracking of the status of the project as it moves through the implementation cycle which will be important for staying on time and within budget parameters.

3. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Manages Resources On Site

Ensure your reputable commercial flooring contractor uses qualified installers and will designate a project manager that will be on site to monitor the project as it unfolds. A seasoned team is required to work with other on-site trades to ensure efficient co-ordination of activities. There are complexities associated with scheduling when combined with working with a variety of different trades that can affect day to day outcomes.

Acoustic Flooring Toronto

Qualified installers are critical to project success.

When there are no gaps in communication it will help to alleviate problems before they occur and allow your contractor to suggest alternatives and recommendations. This ensures that your requirements are efficiently and effectively executed.

4. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Has Good Product Knowledge

It’s important for commercial flooring contractors to have positive and long-standing relationships with the manufacturer’s brands they carry. True flooring specialists will have in-depth knowledge of the products that they install. They will make recommendations for your specific project and advise what type of products will offer the best performance. For example we deal with Mohawk Group, Mannington CommercialMilliken and Tarkett, amongst other manufacturers.

Understanding the challenges associated with life expectancy, appearance retention and ongoing maintenance are issues that require consideration. Installing the wrong product can create many issues. Prior to installation, a good flooring contractor will help with providing product characteristic data which will help to mitigate future problems – from the sub floor to surface.

5.  A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Minimizes Disruption and Downtime

Reputable commercial flooring contractors will look for ways to minimize or eliminate downtime and disruption.  Darwin Fisher offers technology called Levitate –  an Office Lifting System that allows carpet to be replaced with no downtime. Levitate is a series of custom designed mechanical tools which are placed underneath any type of office furniture to lift it smoothly and safely. Once the furniture and workstations are raised the carpet is quickly and easily installed without disruption to employee workstations.

6. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Has A Warehouse to Help Lower Costs

Having a warehouse is also an important value add. The flexibility and functionality of a warehouse helps improve customer service, lower costs and offers the availability to have the right products delivered, at the right place and time. It can also be used to  store products that need longer lead times when being shipped from overseas. It is also helpful if there are several iterations of a larger project which require the phasing in of a variety of flooring materials, and longer-term storage is needed.

commercial flooring contractors toronto

Having a warehouse helps to reduce costs/logistical issues related to scheduling, while managing inventory.

7. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Understands Manufacturer Warranty

Inquire about after sales and installation service. Reputable contractors with good relationships with manufacturers will be registered and understand warranty information as an authorized dealer.

8. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Stands Behind Completed Work

Your contractor should  be with you every step and long after the project is complete. If there are any issues after installation, a good contactor will stand behind their work and remedy the problem.

Go further than a simple Google search. Ensure your chosen contractor has  experience, longevity, is financially stable and can offer an array of past projects and references. This will ensure your satisfaction and project success.

For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com.

 

 

3 Key Reasons Why a Warehouse is Critical to Your Flooring Project Success

The warehouse is critical to a successful flooring installation as unforeseen circumstances can arise when simultaneously working with multiple trades.

warehouse carpet tile and LVT flooring installation Toronto and GTA

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring warehouse in Oakville, ON

“Projects are generally turnkey but when delays are encountered, despite careful planning, it can create chaos if there’s no contingency plan,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “Over the years we have encountered issues at both small and large installation sites, including scheduling delays, equipment, electrical and plumbing problems and other instances that can offset project timelines.”

Warehouse Benefit 1: Inventory Management

Inventory management is important for commercial flooring contractors as it offers a wide array of benefits. A warehouse is not only a place to store product but offers a location to prepare and ship orders. This provides extra value to both Darwin Fisher and its customers as it allows for the right product to be available and delivered at the right place and time. Having a warehouse is paramount to making sure a project runs smoothly as it allows Darwin Fisher to have its materials and experts on site at a moment’s notice.

warehouse carpet tile, lvt, commercial flooring toronto

Our warehouse just before our recent move-in date to our new location.

 

warehouse management for carpet installation toronto

Our warehouse filling up with materials for all of our upcoming projects.

Not only does the warehouse help to better manage project timelines, it helps to improve customer service and lower costs. Consolidating deliveries to one location, instead of shipping multiple items individually from various sources, is more efficient.  One central location where shipments can be examined, processed and sent out as a single order helps to easily maintain supply and demand for materials.

warehouse and flooring installation Toronto and GTA

Organization of materials in our warehouse is key for both new and stored items.

It can also act as a storage repository for unique products that take longer to order or may have to be ordered in batches (ie. dye lots). During this time, the warehouse protects and secures items that are needed for the verticals that Darwin Fisher services. Items can be checked for both quality and proper order fulfillment before being dispatched.

Benefit 2: Scheduling Control

“We also need the warehouse to store client materials through pre-order, or as a service to clients when installation times are delayed, or project parameters change,” explains McDonald. “Once it’s time to move items, each order is retrieved, grouped, packaged and checked for completeness before being sent to the job site.”

In the case of a recent job for Toronto-based Pusateri’s Fine Foods, the delivery truck could not be accepted due to other trades working on the new site. However, this became a simple delay. When it was time for the installation, the materials were consolidated and shipped.

warehouse for commercial flooring contractors toronto

Having a warehouse helps manage inventory when scheduling conflicts arise with other trades.

In this situation, the warehouse acted as a buffer, balancing the time and demand for materials for just in time delivery. Without the warehouse, requirements to manage items required for jobs would be more complex.

Benefit 3: Storage

There are also client requests for storage of additional stock post installation. “We can accommodate our clients through attic stock which is stored in the warehouse,” says McDonald. “For example, if broadloom carpet is damaged a few years after installation, extra stock is required for seam and pattern matching. Without this option, fixes and repairs can be more logistical in nature. Having a place to store leftover or extra product for our clients contributes to our overall service offering.”

shooter takes a break from commercial flooring

Shooter takes a long nap in the warehouse, while keeping an eye on the inventory.

The warehouse has been used for storing products that demand extended lead times when being shipped from overseas, or, when there are several iterations of a larger project that require installing different flooring materials over long periods. Our work with IMAX Corporation, which was a large project that was phased in over several years, demonstrate this requirement. Click here to read more.

Commercial Flooring Toronto - IMAX

IMAX flooring installation by Darwin Fisher

In summary, Darwin Fisher’s warehouse offers convenience in terms of shipping and handling. Having a warehouse contributes to lower costs by increasing efficiencies in the project management process, offering flexibility, and ensuring the product is available on demand.

For a free consultation for your next retrofit or new build, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

 

Walk Off Carpet Tile Systems And Matting Help Manage Risk

Walk off carpet tile systems can help to directly mitigate all sorts of issues relating to foot traffic and weather.

According to the Ontario Ministry of Labour (OMA) here are a list of slip, trip and fall hazards in your workplace:

  • slippery surfaces (oily or greasy, etc.)
  • seasonal slip, trip and fall hazards (snow and ice)
  • spills of wet or dry substances
  • changes in walkway levels and slopes
  • unsecured mats
  • unsafe use of ladders
  • poor lighting
  • falls from beds of trucks, trailers or loads
  • debris and cables in walkways
  • smoke, steam or dust obscuring view
  • lack of guardrails on mezzanines and balconies
  • unsuitable footwear
  • poorly maintained equipment (ladders, fall arrest, etc.)

Unfortunately, inclement weather isn’t far away. To help mitigate any potential risk you may want to consider a walk off carpet tile system. These systems provide an aesthetically pleasing solution which protects visitors from slips and falls, while extending your long-term flooring investment.

Slips and falls can be costly. Commercial property and casualty insurer CNA  identifies lack of slip resistance as the number one cause of slip and fall accidents.  According to CNA Claim data in a recent article published on reducing slips and falls in financial institutions, “40 percent of slip and fall claims occur mainly on entry flooring. Make sure building entrances are visible and free from obstacles. Water should quickly drain away from pedestrian areas to keep feet dry when entering the building. Snow/ice management is also important.”

carpet tile installation toronto

Walk off carpet systems and matting can mitigate risk and protect your flooring investment.

The article goes on to say that, “Mats can also help trap outside walkway dirt and water before they reach your floors and create a possible exposure. To be most effective, purchase floor mats with slip resistant backing and beveled edges. Position the mats flat on the floor and ensure they are cleaned on a regular basis. Lastly, floor mats should cover an area for people to take three to four strides, approximately six to eight feet, before coming into contact with the flooring underneath.”

Why Install A Walk Off Carpet Tile System?

Walk off carpet tile systems vary in design and materials but are generally a carpeted rubber-backed matting system which consists of carpet tiles which have coarse fibers that “scrape” dirt off shoes and carpet also can absorb soil particles and are adhered directly to the interior entrance area of a building.  They are a better alternative to unsecured mats because they are not only safe, they also protect your long-term flooring investment through providing a soil and moisture capture/barrier. Over time, heavy traffic, combined with soil or debris brought indoors can affect and remove a finish from an installed floor or damage carpet life.

 

walk off carpet tile systems darwin fisher commercial flooring

Walk off carpet tile systems can be more effective than traditional matting.

“Soil and moisture are the main causes of premature wear and eventual replacement of the installed floor,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fishing Commercial Flooring.  “These types of systems also help building operators avoid the liability of slip and fall incidents caused by slippery entryways in their facilities by providing the higher traction, moisture-absorbing technology.”

Traditional matting systems when combined with hard surface flooring can pose a slip hazard when wet or soiled with debris that is tracked into a building. Area mats and runner matting systems can bunch or ripple.

A Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association (ISSA) article states,  “Many facilities still view matting as merely a way to prevent slip-and-fall accidents. While that is one of their key benefits, effective matting systems also keep as much as 80 percent of moisture and soil from entering a facility.”

Keeping It Clean

As walk off carpet tile systems are effective in their ability to “wipe/scrape” dirt, debris and moisture from shoes, this is a key benefit to mitigating trips and falls as dirt and debris does not reattach to footwear and become tracked into the interior of the building. Click here for a recent article where we featured on a walk off carpet tile matting system called Tough Stuff from manufacturer the Mohawk Group.

According to the Continuing Education Centre, Architecture and Construction :

  • The estimated cost of finding and removing a pound of dirt from a building is $600. (ISSA)
  • One square yard of carpet can accumulate one pound of dirt in a week- twice that in inclement weather.
  • 70 to 80 percent of dust, grime, and dirt in a building are tracked in from the outside on people’s feet permanently damaging floors and carpets. (Institute of Industrial Launderers)
  • Fifteen feet of effective, high-performance matting can trap and hold as much as 75 percent of this soil at the door; 30 feet can remove as much as 100 percent. (ISSA)
walk off entry carpet reduced maintenance costs

Photo credit: Mohawk Group – Tuff Stuff Walk Off Entry Carpet System

walk off systems and matting for inclement weather

Photo credit: Mohawk Group – Tuff Stuff Walk Off Entry Carpet System

Walk Off Entry Carpet Systems Lower Maintenance Fees and Protect Your Investment

From a facilities manager perspective walk off systems will save money in maintenance fees as they are easier to clean and maintain. By reducing the amount of dirt and debris tracked into a building floors and carpets will stay cleaner for longer periods of time, needing less care contributing to reduced use of cleaning chemicals. For general maintenance, the modular systems can be easily cleaned by vacuuming. If a specific area becomes damaged, individual tiles can simply be swapped out or repaired.

For information about entry matting system installation, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

5 Reasons Why LVT Popularity Continues to Grow: Research

LVT popularity is increasing due to advancements in design and technology. New sizes, formats and patterns, combined with the fact that it is easy to install and less costly to maintain over time, makes it appealing to a variety of industry verticals.

 Verified Market Research, reports in its Global Luxury Vinyl Tile-LVT Market Size By Type, By End-Use Sector, By Geographic Scope And Forecast,  that  the LVT market was valued at USD 16.11 Billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 37.92 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 11.23% from 2021 to 2028.

Commercial flooring contractor Toronto

Verified Market Research – Global LVT Market

The report also states that, “Non-residential segment is anticipated to account for the highest market share. This can be attributed to the increasing demand for Luxury Vinyl Tiles from multiple end users such as hotel and hospitality segments because of the benefits they provide like sophisticated and aesthetic interiors and ease of cleaning. Hospitals also use LVT because they don’t react to chemicals and similar agents.”

Research and Markets reports The Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) Flooring market in the U.S. is estimated at US$5.3 Billion in the year 2020. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$8.3 Billion by the year 2027 trailing a CAGR of 13.7% over the analysis period 2020 to 2027. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 7.1% and 8.9% respectively over the 2020-2027 period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 8.1% CAGR.

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the global market for Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) Flooring estimated at US$19.6 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$38.9 Billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 10.3% over the period 2020-2027.

commercial lvt flooring contractor

Research and Markets global LVT flooring growth

Why has LVT  increased in popularity? Here are the top reasons.

LVT popularity has also increased as it has become a practical choice across many industries. According to a Floor Covering Weekly  report released on June 28 of this year the top brands and suppliers are as follows.

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring Contractor

Floor Covering Weekly top LVT brands

5 Reasons for the rise of LVT popularity:

  1. The Way It’s Made

LVT products are generally made of moisture resistant PVC or virgin vinyl. LVT is made up of five distinct layers:

  1. Polyurethane coating (sometimes re-enforced with ceramic bead, silica bead or aluminum oxide) to improve durability
  2. Protective clear layer known as the ‘wear layer’
  3. Print film layer (with your chosen design)
  4. Vinyl core
  5. Vinyl backing

This results in a flooring solution that is easy to install, durable and easy to clean and maintain. Typically, LVT wear layers range from 20-28 mm of thickness for commercial installation projects, with thickness selected based on requirements from low through to high foot traffic areas. (i.e. low traffic office space as opposed to building entrance areas).

  1. Affordability by Design

LVT, through technological innovation, is now available in many different finishes, including those that mimic wood and stone. Designers are offered a large array of options at more affordable price points than natural materials. Designers are also drawn to the newly available patterns, colours and variety of designs offered as application pattern technology progresses.

  1. Low Maintenance

Upon initial purchase, LVT is more expensive than vinyl composite tile (VCT) products, however LVT has a lower maintenance cost over time due to its built-in protective layer, offering much more comprehensive and long-lasting protection. The protective layer doesn’t need regular waxing and polishing like VCT. However, this top layer will wear over time and may need to be reapplied for heavy traffic areas.

Each organization’s LVT cleaning and maintenance requirements will vary based on traffic. Inclement weather will also affect cleaning requirements. LVT only requires regular sweeping and mopping to remove dust and dirt which is much easier for cost-conscience maintenance budgets.

Toronto LVT Commercial Flooring

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring LVT IMAX installation

  1. Return on Investment: Durability

LVT popularity is driven also by the fact that it is protected by a clear layer which helps to maintain its appearance over long periods of time. The wear layer varies in terms of thickness. Thickness must be chosen in conjunction with the traffic area as heavy, long-term wear will affect appearance.  It will not expand and contract in humid or dry seasons and is a fraction of the price of stone or real wood. LVT is less likely to scuff, indent or scratch with regular use and wear and tear through foot traffic and furniture movement. This makes it a solid flooring investment choice for the long-term, combined with the fact that it requires very little maintenance.

  1. Acoustically Sound

Studies have shown that elevated noise levels from hard surface flooring can negatively affect the health and well-being of employees. LVT offers better acoustic properties than hard surface flooring like ceramic tile and it won’t chip or discolor.

Armstrong Flooring reports that building materials and furnishings can affect the acoustics of a building in three ways through information gathered on acoustical data:

  • Sound Absorption: They can absorb sound, lowering background noise levels and reducing reverberation within a room.
  • Airborne Sound Transmission: They can serve as acoustical insulation and reduce transmission of airborne sounds, such as voices, between rooms.
  • Impact Sound Transmission: They can serve as impact sound insulation and reduce the transmission of impact sound, such as footsteps, from one room to another below or adjacent to it.
Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto LVT

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring LVT installation at Entertainment One

In healthcare, we’ve seen a trend towards installation of newer finishes like LVT over traditional ceramic. Flooring decisions in healthcare depend on how it will affect patients, safety, indoor air quality and infection control. Floor surfaces also need to be slip resistant and offer smooth transitions from one area to another for staff/patients and related equipment. Part of the reason beyond new finishes and designs, is that these technologies offer sound transmission protection. Dentists and doctors stress the need for soundproofing. Walls, ceiling and flooring materials selected need to help protect patient privacy and hinder sound travel.

According to Verified Market Research “increase in disposable income, beneficial properties of Luxury Vinyl Tile and the increase in construction and remodeling activities are some of the major factors driving the market. The increase in disposable income of consumers had led to changes in their lifestyle choices and preferences as well. Moreover, this has also led to an increase in the number of construction-for residential as well as office space, and remodeling activities. The beneficial attributes of LVT-ease of installation and application, easy to maintenance, cost-effectiveness, resilient to chemical reactions and provides an aesthetic appeal to space make them much more popular for use in residential as well as non-residential construction.”

Many Finishes and Manufacturers

There are a number of different types of LVT products on the market. Many manufacturers offer different performance ratios from one product to another. This includes the surface of the product, to the type of backing used, in addition to thickness of the tiles. Ensure your flooring installer is knowledgeable of the differences, quality and applications that would best suit your environment, including projected wear from foot traffic/furniture, installation, and maintenance and acoustic considerations.

For more information about LVT flooring installation solutions please fill out this form on our website or email us directly at info@darwinfisher.com.

Global Flooring Market Expected to Grow From 2021 – 2028

A global flooring market 2021 research report shows the market will continue to expand due technological advancements in materials and application, coupled with increased government spending on infrastructure.

In February, Grand View Research Inc. , headquartered in San Francisco, CA, released its global flooring market analysis report. The report states that the global flooring market size was valued at USD $388.24 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% from 2021 to 2028.

global flooring market 2021 research

The report looks at the global flooring market size from 2016-2019, with expected growth to 2028. This includes forecasts of how market drivers, restrains and future opportunities will affect market dynamics. Also provided are segments and regions along with reasons for growth. Grand View Research has also provided an in-depth analysis of sustainability strategies adopted by leading market players.

Report Insights

The rising need for privacy and reduced noise has spurred the demand for insulation across the flooring market as a well-insulated floor improves acoustics. For more information on our recent article regarding flooring and acoustics click here. This has resulted in the growing demand for insulation, thereby supporting market growth.

Moreover, consumer preferences for aesthetically improved designs, textures, & colors and low-maintenance & easy-to-install floorings are anticipated to ascend the market growth. For more information on some of the leading types of commercial products click here.

Strong industrial and economic development coupled with population expansion is likely to have a positive impact on the product demand over the forecast period. The report also states that the development of hassle-free installation techniques, availability of innovative construction solutions, and the rising demand for environmentally sustainable products are anticipated to fuel the industry growth. The presence of a stringent regulatory framework on the production, usage, implementation, and recycling is also likely to have a positive impact on the market growth.

Increased R&D in flooring products in addition to customization options, in terms of color, texture, and finishing, offered by the manufacturers have contributed to higher product demand, also augmenting the market growth.

Product Insights

The report further states, the non-resilient flooring segment led the market and accounted for more than 61% share of the global revenue in 2020 due to a rise in the number of residential and commercial construction activities across the globe. The segment will retain its leading position throughout the forecast period on account of the high demand for these products due to their excellent water resistance and durability.

The resilient flooring segment is estimated to register the fastest CAGR from 2021 to 2028 due to the high demand for these materials in commercial applications, such as offices, gyms and hospitality buildings. These products are cost-efficient and durable and are the right fit for use in high-traffic residential and commercial areas on account of their ease of maintenance and noise-reduction capabilities. Moreover, resilient floorings are dense, non-absorbent in nature, and comfortable to walk on.

Ceramic and natural stone were cited as popular materials for construction applications. Seamless flooring is applied in the industrial environment, wherein, a large floor area is covered with resins and concrete materials.

Application Insights

Rising demand for highly durable and cost-efficient flooring for use in high-traffic commercial areas is projected to boost the commercial application segment growth over the forecast period. The development of new products and easy installation techniques are also driving the commercial segment. Expansion of modern offices and workspaces, growing renovation activities in commercial spaces, and rapid industrialization in developing economies are further expected to propel the segment growth.

global flooring market 2021 research

Regional Insights

The report states that demand for flooring in North America is anticipated to increase over the forecast period. The construction industry in the U.S. and Canada coupled with rising demand for single-family houses in the region is likely to provide growth opportunities to the market.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Technological advancements, R+D, coupled with new trends in floor designs and construction solutions have driven the overall market. There are a variety of market players and each of these companies offer a variety of products for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Several manufacturers are engaged in research & development activities to introduce sustainable flooring materials.

Some of the prominent players cited in the global flooring market include:

 

For  more information regarding Grand View Research’s methodology please click here.

To see related articles regarding commercial flooring trends please click here.

For more information about flooring installation solutions please contact us here.

 

Covid-19 Flooring Disinfection and How It Impacts Your Installation Choices

As Covid-19 continues into 2021, many flooring manufacturers are introducing new solutions, materials and finishes to increase social distancing. However, selecting the right application for your installation goes well beyond the product chosen. Covid-19 flooring disinfection will impact your flooring considerations to include long-term functionality, daily employee traffic flow and maintenance.

As there is now more demand for cleaning and sterilization, understanding how this impacts flooring in terms of life expectancy, appearance retention and ongoing maintenance also needs to be considered as installing the wrong product could lead to future issues.

Covid-19 Flooring Disinfection and Impact

‘As we continue to live with COVID-19, there’s an increased emphasis on maintaining flooring, with services on offer that are designed to keep floors clean—and virus-free. From protocols, to equipment and disinfectants, there’s plenty to consider when deciding on the proper cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting of commercial flooring,” states Floor Trends Magazine in a recent article.

The article goes onto say that more data about how chemicals will affect interior finishes is required as there aren’t enough long-term studies regarding how these disinfectants will affect specific materials over time.  For this reason, there is a greater need for flooring manufacturers to provide more information about what chemicals can be safely used on floor surfaces as disinfection becomes a regular part of the care process. This relates specifically to how this could impact warranty.

Covid-19 flooring disinfection

How disinfection can impact your flooring choices

Covid-19 and Social Distancing Flooring Solutions

Leading applications provide different levels of wear and tear and also vary in design and aesthetic impact. For example, carpet tile technology has progressed to absorb sound and offers cushioning for employees who frequently stand. Carpet tile provides greater flexibility for installation and refitting for a variety of applications across many industries including healthcare, hospitality, retail, education and the entertainment industry.

Mohawk Group Nutopia 2.0 and Milliken  Social Factor  and other manufacturers now providing navigational flooring solutions using carpet tile. Carpet tile has extra cushion and vinyl backing so that it doesn’t easily unravel. Carpet tile is also  extremely durable and spot areas can be quickly changed without requiring additional installation expertise. Many manufacturers are now offering social distancing carpet tile solutions to help mitigate employee anxiety and direct traffic flow. In general, the cleaning and maintenance costs of carpet are relatively low, requiring regular vacuuming and an occasional deep cleaning. How Covid-19 will impact the cleaning and maintenance of carpet tile will depend on the location, amount of traffic and demands of the space where installation occurs.

Covid-19 Flooring Disinfection

How Covid-19 will impact carpet installation

VCT offers both style and functionality. It is budget conscious and easy to install, repair and offers simple daily maintenance such as quick damp mop. It has a long lifespan and is a cheaper solution than ceramic or hardwood. It is also ideal for spaces which are prone to high moisture levels. If you require the qualities found in a rubber surface, mixed in with the appeal of laminate or linoleum flooring, vinyl is a great choice. This type of flooring is scratch-resistant. Vinyl floors are very common in dental offices and healthcare verticals because they offer style with functionality and ease of daily maintenance. Products made from 100% vinyl are classified as green solutions and eligible for LEED points. Although VCT is easy to maintain the impact of harsher chemicals for disinfection over long periods of time will eventually affect top layer finishes.

Covid-19 Flooring Disinfection

Photo credit: Mohawk Group – Large + Local LVT creates directionality

LVT has become a popular choice as it is available in a large array of designs that mimic wood and stone but is much more durable. It offers better acoustic properties than hard surface flooring like ceramic tile and it won’t chip or discolor. LVT is long-wearing, requires very little maintenance and is protected by a clear layer which helps to maintain its appearance over long periods of time. It will not expand and contract in humid or dry seasons and is a fraction of the price of stone or real wood.  There are several manufacturers that offer wayfinding LVT products to help with social distancing solutions and traffic flow in the workplace. LVT is another material that is easy to clean and maintain however, if it is installed in high traffic area which requires constant disinfection the chemicals used would have to be examined to determine how that would affect long-term care.

Covid-19 and Emerging Healthcare Flooring Applications

The flooring choice for hospitals is still dominated by resilient applications. Here we are seeing new and innovative solutions which are also environmentally friendly, like Legato Liquid Linoleum from Mannington Commercial.  According to Mannington, “Legato Liquid Linoleum can be installed across many segments that require the benefits of infection control, slip resistance, and sound dampening – traits that go above and beyond that of a traditional linoleum thanks to its seamless installation and Quantum Guard Elite® technology. These segments include healthcare, government, education, retail and assisted living applications.”

Liquid linoleum flooring solutions

Photo credit: Mannington Commercial  – Legato Liquid Linoleum

As there are a broad range of flooring solutions available it’s wise to ensure that you are dealing with a reputable flooring contractor that understands the opportunities and challenges associated with your new build or retrofit. As Covid-19 flooring disinfection becomes more complex, true flooring specialists need to have in-depth knowledge of the products that they install. They will make recommendations for your specific project and advise what type of products will offer the best performance. Installing the best solution for your particular space will ensure your flooring needs and return on investment are met for years to come.

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For your free Covid-19 flooring installation assessment, please contact us here.

Social Distancing and Navigational Flooring for the Workplace

Social distancing has created the need for navigational flooring solutions in the workplace as Covid-19 restrictions continue into 2021. As a result, many flooring manufacturers are designing flooring collections in a wide variety of materials, which are all creatively aimed at encouraging social distancing, easing workplace traffic flow and reducing employee anxiety.

Nelson Worldwide recently executed a study to “to clarify how we, as individuals, have responded to the sudden change in our work styles and work environments.” Nelson Worldwide is a firm that specializes in delivering architecture, interior design, graphic design, and brand strategy services. It describes itself as offering services which transform all dimensions of the human experience, including environments where they work, serve, play, and thrive.

social distancing and flooring solutions toronto

Image credit: Nelson Worldwide

In its 2020 Return to Work Survey, the company found that “purposeful and visible changes to increase safety measures in the office are top of mind to assure the workforce that re-entry is safe.” Physical safety measures were rated extremely to very important by 83% of survey respondents. Nelson also cited the survey results found that, “there is a strong tension between wanting to return to the office and anxiety over health and safety – with 54% wanting to return to the office, while 51% experience anxiety over health and safety.”

commercial flooring solutions toronto

Image Credit: Nelson Worldwide

Another key insight reported was that 81% of people are craving clear, consistent, and reassuring communication to reduce anxiety around the return to the office environment.

social distancing and commercial flooring Toronto

Image credit: Nelson Worldwide

Social Distancing and Navigational Flooring Solutions

Floor Trends Magazine concurs, “As people return to public spaces, two issues loom large: guiding individuals safely around the interior, and reminding everyone to maintain a safe distance from each other. Wayfinding and zoning are simple ways to help people navigate your space, and flooring has long been a key component of the solution. Adding new visual cues beneath people’s feet helps coordinate their movement, reducing the likelihood of individuals coming into close contact.”

Manufacturers are already providing solutions which will help to mitigate employee anxiety, while providing navigational flooring design cues to coordinate flow of traffic and encourage distancing.

Floor Trends reports that Tarkett’s new suite of solutions aims to help businesses address these challenges. Tarkett’s Imaginations Custom Floor Design program enables architects, designers and facilities personnel to create custom die-cuts for carpet, LVT, rubber or resilient sheet. These can include specific designs, messaging or imagery, which can then be fabricated and shipped directly to the job site.

Designs include arrows or footprint tiles which can be integrated with an existing floor as distancing markers. Circles can also be added in along with iconography and messaging, all encouraging social distancing through navigational flooring.

Another example of a flooring manufacturer that has that has included social distancing in their flooring design is Mohawk Group, which also offers flooring collections to make it easy regulate traffic and create distancing in the workplace through design.

Commercial flooring installation Toronto

Photo credit: Mohawk Group

Social Distancing and Navigational Flooring Collections

Mohawk’s  Nutopia 2.0 collection  offers planks that include a ground texture, a transition pattern and an accent color which all work independently or together as a system to create zones. The company explains that as Nutopia 2.0 coordinates for cohesion, it can help ease visual stress, making the reinforcement of social distancing guidelines a subtle reminder while contributing pleasing aesthetics to the space.

Mohawk also offers directional wayfinding solutions for organizations that need to consider how its employees navigate through open or common areas. This type of flooring showcases directional patterns and pathways that can help reduce foot traffic, provide safety in terms of walking through larger areas by reinforcing distancing.

In addition to measured distancing, flooring styles can be configured to represent subtle directional lanes to move people through a space, as Mohawk demonstrates in the picture below.

Flooring Project Management Toronto

Photo credit: Mohawk Group – Large + Local LVT creates directionality

“As many companies attempt to balance the importance of human connection with the need to safely foster that connection, it is vital to consider the impact of the floorscape,” says Mohawk in a recent article. “We believe that designing for distance means thoughtfully incorporating commercial flooring that is versatile enough to carry the workplace through this transitional period and beyond.”

Social Factor is yet another creative solution from Milliken Floor Coverings. Social Factor is described as a program designed to provide instructional, graphic solutions for social zoning in shared spaces that features a collection of icons printed directly on carpet tiles. Milliken’s Social Factor solution defines zones, creates cohesive traffic flow and maintains safe connectivity within workspaces. Below is a series of 50 cm x 50 cm tiles which can be customized by base, icon and accent colour. Click link above for more detail.

Social distancing flooring installation

Photo credit: Milliken Social Factor

As we begin embracing 2021, there are still many uncertainties looming, however these solutions will help ease back to work anxiety, create positive social distancing spaces, regulate foot traffic and define clearly zoned areas to help keep employees safe.

For more information about encouraging social distancing through navigational flooring solutions, please contact us here.

Dental Offices 2020: LVT Continues To Be Top Installation Choice

Dental office flooring installation in 2020 continues to move from linoleum and ceramic tile to luxury vinyl tile (LVT). Low maintenance products such as LVT, which we have profiled in the past, have been gaining influence as a viable solution based on design aesthetics, ease of installation, cleaning and maintenance. This type of floor surface is also slip resistant and offers smooth transitions from one area to another.

LVT is extremely versatile from a design perspective. It can replicate the appearance of natural stone or wood but will not wear like natural materials. It won’t chip or discolour and will not expand and contract as wood does in humid or dry seasons. It can also replicate real wood or stone at a fraction of the price. Products made from 100% vinyl are classified as green solutions and eligible for LEED points. LVT is also more economical  from an initial cost perspective (supply + install) over ceramic.

lvt and dental offices

LVT installation continues to be popular for dental offices

“From a flooring contractor’s perspective the biggest change to date that we’ve seen is  dental office flooring moving away from linoleum or ceramic tile to LVT”, explains Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “LVT offers superior thermal and acoustic properties in comparison to hard surface flooring. Plus, it’s easy to maintain and repair.”

Also in the past the design community drove 75% of the chosen flooring. This has also changed as Darwin Fisher is driving the flooring selection for almost all of its dental office projects. The migration was made possible over a short time as new and more optimal flooring technologies like LVT were made available that were better suited to the healthcare environment.

“There are still some ceramic tile requests but less than before. For new offices I am actually seeing it more in the entrance vestibule and washrooms rather than sterilization/lab area,” says McDonald.

LVT dental office installation Toronto

Photo credit: Canadian Dental Construction

Dental Office Trends: The Move Away from Ceramic

“Dentists are now doing everything they can to make the waiting area as comfortable as possible,” said Dan Burns, President of Canadian Dental Construction, who has 30 years of experience in dental office builds and renovations. “One of the first concepts to consider before all else is the flooring. It will dictate the tone for the rest of the office as it will set the style and comfort a dentist wants for its patients.”

For dental office flooring, there has been a move away from using only ceramic tile. Many of the newer flooring finishes like LVT are being used as they offer a variety of finishes while providing protection from water damage. These materials also offer more padding for longer wear, are damage resistant, easier to clean and require very little maintenance.

Dentist offices are no longer cold and clinical. There have been many changes as compared to 20 years ago. “For example, we now design the operatories to be less intimidating so we take as much focus as we can off of the patient chair and plan the room around audio visual….The look is much neater, cleaner and less intimidating for the patient. Even softer lighting in the ceilings is taken into account,” explains Burns.

There are a few benefits associated with the newer loose lay technology:

  • It’s 5 mm thick and offers a cushioned surface which is ideal for hygienists and dentists who are on their feet all day.
  • Like traditional LVT it wears well and is durable while offering ease of maintenance.
  • After installation, if an accident occurs, the modularity of LVT loose lay flooring systems offer an easy way to isolate a damaged area and provide the flexibility of spot repair rather than having to replace the entire floor.
  • It is aesthetically pleasing as there are many different designs and colours available to meet a variety of project installation needs from a design perspective.

Dental Office Trends: LVT Becoming a Long-Term Solution

Loose lay LVT has many of the same performance attributes of traditional LVT but goes above and beyond with other benefits that make it a better option. Loose lay is also fast becoming an ideal product for raised access flooring that are typical to new office builds. It can be easily removed and replaced when needed to areas that require constant or frequent access. Its flexibility allows it to be adapted to be installed over other existing flooring materials for retrofits. It is also now thick enough that it can be laid to be flush with other products in the area such as carpet, hardwood or tile if required for transition areas in dental office flooring.

lvt installation toronto

Photo credit: Canadian Dental Construction

Due the fact that it requires minimal adhesive when compared to traditional LVT, Loose lay has also become the preferred flooring choice as it is easier to install, remove and replace in terms of maintenance and spot fixing if required. Loose lay also offers better acoustic properties than traditional LVT. The thickness and textured surface helps to absorb sounds which is also ideal for optimizing privacy between patient examination areas.

Currently, over 80% of dental office flooring installations are LVT for Darwin Fisher clients. The odd time Darwin Fisher gets request for carpet tile; however this is generally if the existing office has carpet and an economical flooring replacement is needed. However, in most instances the dentist will opt to upgrade to new LVT to replace the old flooring.

To see a related article regarding commercial flooring trends click here.

For more information about dental office renovations and flooring installation solutions please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Logo Matting and Your Building’s Brand

Custom logo matting is a great alternative to strengthen your building’s brand while creating a professional image. The wrong matting can send a negative message by spoiling first impressions. Logo matting provides various functions. From a design perspective it offers a professional touch to your building entrance and a non-slip surface to protect visitors and your floor.

Logo Matting Creates a Positive Image For Your Brand

Your logo will keep your brand image top of mind for anyone entering the building. It also provides a professional clean look while protecting the surrounding floor from dirt and debris, to extend your flooring investment. Reasons to consider logo matting include:

  • Aesthetic appeal
  • Soil and moisture capture/barrier
  • Safety
  • Manage Risk
  • Ease of maintenance
  • Long-term flooring investment protection

 

logo matting toronto

Logo matting protects visitors while keeping your brand top of mind.

“These custom mats capture debris and the entire system looks aesthetically pleasing,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “Logo matting offers many associated benefits. From a facilities manager perspective it will save money in maintenance fees because it’s easy to clean and maintain, while it also protects floors and builds your brand.”

Logo Matting Can Help To Mitigate Trips and Falls

Matting can also protect visitors from slips, trips or falls.  In Ontario alone, Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS) reports  how slips trips or falls can affect your business:

  • Each year there are about 17,000 lost-time injuries due to falls in the workplace*
  • 65% of all fall-related injuries are from “same level”*
  • One in five lost-time injuries result from falls*
  • Every year about 20 people die in Ontario because of workplace falls*
  • 80 workers sustain injuries every day due to falls (1 every 20 minutes)*
  • An average WSIB claim is $11,771; factor in other costs like lost productivity and staff replacement, and the cost can be as much as four times more – approximately $59,000 per injury*
  • with a profit margin of 5%, sales/services required to cover the total cost of one injury equals about $1.2 million*

Source: *WSIB “Preventing Slips, Trips and Falls in the Workplace”

Logo matting

Building Hazards – Photo by Oliver Hale on Unsplash

This information is further supported by commercial property and casualty insurer CNA  which identifies lack of slip resistance as the number one cause of slip and fall accidents.  According to CNA Claim data in a recent article published on reducing slips and falls in financial institutions, “Mats can also help trap outside walkway dirt and water before they reach your floors and create a possible exposure. To be most effective, purchase floor mats with slip resistant backing and beveled edges ….  floor mats should cover an area for people to take three to four strides, approximately six to eight feet, before coming into contact with the flooring underneath.”

Logo Matting Keeps Visitors Healthy and Safe While Protecting Your Floors

Logos can be used with walk off entry matting systems or regular matting. If you are adding  logo detail in matting beyond the entry area of the main building lobby, it will  keep your building clean and tidy while keeping your brand top of mind, no matter where your visitor travels.

Logo matting

Benefits of logo matting – Photo by Akshay Chauhan on Unsplash

Dirt, debris and moisture can have a considerable impact on your flooring investment.  Depending on the time of year, salt and sand can be corrosive. In the spring pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals can be tracked in on footwear. The combination of all of these factors will erode the surface finish of your floor increasing damage from wear and tear. Certain types of debris and pollutants can also affect indoor air quality by introducing chemicals and allergens into the building.

By strengthening your brand through logo matting, you are ensured that all employees and visitors enjoy their stay in a building that helps protect their health and safety, while keeping your corporate image top of mind.

For information about logo matting systems, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Pros and Cons of Commercial Flooring – Top 5 Types

Technological advances in commercial flooring have created a variety of applications that have made installation and maintenance more manageable, while delivering long-term return on investment. Some of the most popular choices include carpet tile, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), vinyl composite tile (VCT), engineered hardwood and laminate wood. In this article we will be examining the pros and cons of these five commercial flooring types.

Pros and Cons of Commercial Flooring by Type:

1. Carpet Tile

 Pros

Carpet tile technology has progressed to absorb sound and offers cushioning for employees who frequently stand. Carpet tile provides greater flexibility for installation and refitting for a variety of applications across many industries including healthcare, hospitality, retail, education and the entertainment industry.

Toronto Carpet Tile contractor

Darwin Fisher carpet tile installation at IMAX headquarters

When it comes to carpet tile some of the pros include varieties available with extra cushion and vinyl backing so that they don’t easily unravel. Carpet tile is also  extremely durable and spot areas can be quickly changed without requiring additional installation expertise. New pattern matching technology ensures that design and patterns are maintained, and the appearance of the finished product resembles broadloom carpet when installed.

Carpet Tile Commercial Toronto

Darwin Fisher carpet tile installation at IMAX headquarters

If broadloom is chosen and an area is damaged, fixing the spot in question is a much larger and more complicated process in terms of seam and pattern matching. It also makes it difficult to fix if there is no broadloom attic stock available. Carpet tile can be easily spot fixed while broadloom is a larger endeavor. Carpet tile is more economical than broadloom and generates less waste. Broadloom carpet comes in rolls. Carpet tiles have a smaller footprint and are more modular. The cleaning and maintenance costs of carpet are relatively low, requiring regular vacuuming and an occasional deep cleaning.

Toronto carpet contractors

Photo credit Mohawk Group

 Cons

Carpet tiles need to be professionally cleaned so there will be maintenance. If the carpet and the secondary backing are not attached properly, over time they can separate, causing the installation to wrinkle or fibres to stray and pull at the separation point. The most common cause of delamination is improper formulation or application of the adhesive. Carpet tile can also perceived as “cheap” when compared to broadloom in terms of aesthetics, however that is changing as designs, patterns and materials have technological progressed.

2. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

Pros

LVT has become a popular choice amongst dental offices and commercial offices that offer a residential feel. It’s available in a large array of designs that mimic wood and stone but is much more durable. It offers better acoustic properties than hard surface flooring like ceramic tile and it won’t chip or discolor.

LVT is long-wearing, requires very little maintenance and is protected be a clear layer which helps to maintain its appearance over long periods of time. It will not expand and contract in humid or dry seasons and is a fraction of the price of stone or real wood.

pros and cons of commercial flooring types

Darwin Fisher LVT installation at Entertainment One

 Cons

For offices where employees are standing all day it may not be the best flooring in terms of underfoot comfort. The wear layer varies in terms of thickness and it’s important that the thickness be chosen in conjunction with the application at hand or problems can surface in terms of floor traffic and long-term wear. According to the Milliken Flooring blog – “Cleaning hard surfaces like LVT  and VCT (see below) is generally more labor-intensive than carpet, requiring mopping instead of vacuuming to remove dirt and debris. In an 8-hour shift, this makes it possible to clean a 21% larger carpeted area than a comparable hard surface – translating into a 21% increase in labor costs for VCT and LVT.”

3. Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT)

Pros

The pros and cons of commercial flooring also extend to VCT which offers both style and functionality. It is budget conscious and easy to install, repair and offers simple daily maintenance such as quick damp mop. It has a long lifespan and is a cheaper solution than ceramic or hardwood. It is also ideal for spaces which are prone to high moisture levels.

If you require qualities in a rubber surface, mixed in with the appeal of laminate or linoleum flooring, vinyl is a great choice. This type of flooring is scratch-resistant. Vinyl floors are very common in dental offices and health care verticals because they offer style with functionality and ease of daily maintenance. Products made from 100% vinyl are classified as green solutions and eligible for LEED points.

Cons

If not installed properly or in the wrong area, glue on the tiles can come loose and cause the tiles to lift at the corners. Maintenance requires regular waxing and polishing to maintain the protective coating on the surface of the tile. Over time color or pattern deterioration of the tile can be affected. Cleaning issues may also arise that are related to surface wear and tear. “Though VCT offers good value, it lacks many of the benefits carpet tiles are able to provide – including reduced ambient noise, improved underfoot comfort, lower risk of slips and falls, and greater color, pattern and design flexibility,” according to Milliken.

4. Engineered Hardwood

The pros and cons of commercial flooring when it comes to engineered hardwood, as seen in the picture below, include the following:

Pros

Engineered hardwood can be a great option for lower traffic areas. It doesn’t expand or contract as much as laminate flooring and is very pleasing from an aesthetic perspective. As it mimics solid wood flooring, it’s a great option that is less expensive to purchase. It is more environmentally friendly than solid hardwood.

Below is picture of how most engineered hardwood looks today. You can see the actual thickness of the hardwood and how it is laminated with plywood underneath to give stability and backing to secure to the subfloor. Most hardwood is produced this way as there are many layers of pressed wood to give stability, plus a thick wood veneer on the surface for several sandings, to be followed by a choice of a variety of sealants.

Pros and cons of commercial flooring

Engineered hardwood sample

The next consideration is the actual finish. There are 3 types of hardwood finishes. lacquer, water-based urethane and oil or hard wax oil finished. “The majority of the market is lacquer or varathane hardwood,” says says Graham Linton, General Manager of Interior Care.

“The water-based urethane finishes have no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) so are low in odour. They also have a hardener component that cures. This means less downtime as it can be walked on after four hours,” says Linton.  “This allows average sized jobs to be complete and ready for use in one day.”

Varathane hardwood can be maintained with specialty cleaning products or with a damp mopping – never over wet. Hardwood installs that have an oil finished product make scratches less visible and can be oiled out. With urethane or lacquer, it’s difficult to impossible to fix scratches without a refinish.

Cons

When considering the pros and cons of commercial flooring when it comes to engineered hardwood, remember that while aesthetically pleasing, it would not be recommended in the main entrance of an office building. Seasonal precipitation and chemicals could damage the appearance and life expectancy. It further requires more maintenance over time in terms of dents, cracks, scratches and scuffs due to high volume of traffic.

It is one of the most expensive materials to install and also is not a good choice for spaces that are prone to moisture as it will warp and can buckle and crack.

Maintenance is also an issue as it requires the same type of maintenance in the long term as real hardwood.  If the scratches are deeper than the actual finish, isolating the repair is difficult. A very simple maintenance solution is to ensure the glides on the bottom of the legs of the furniture are replaced or covered with felt – this prevents surface scratching. Felt glides should be changed frequently as they will wear with use.

Pros and cons of commercial flooring

Hardwood flooring pros and cons

A refresh of the hardwood finish may be required every 8-10 years depending on the wear and tear of the floor. This is a process called ‘buff and coat’ whereby a contractor surface screens (light sanding) the top layers of the hardwood and applies a new coat of finish which can be varathane or longer wearing urethane.

Oil or hard wax oil finishes can be oiled and touched up for isolated scratches. The long-term issue is this type of hardwood finish, over and up to two years tends to dry out in our four-season climate, and requires nourishing through periodic re-oiling.

5. Laminate Wood

Pros

This man-made wood is favored as it resembles a variety of styles and finishes that mimic solid wood flooring. It is available at a much more affordable price point than real wood and is easy to maintain. It is often found in buildings that qualify for LEED certification points as it is more environmentally friendly option.

pros and cons of commercial flooring

Pros and cons of laminate wood

Cons

Laminate will not wear as well as some of the other new innovations. It is particularly susceptible to moisture due to that it is made from composite wood and can warp or buckle. It is not recommended for any areas prone to moisture.  It is also very difficult to repair.

Pros and Cons of Commercial Flooring Summary

As there are many products and applications to choose from, it’s critical to consult with a trusted contractor who understands the requirements of a particular space and how it will impact your flooring investment over time. Choosing the right application for your area goes well beyond just price, but should take into consideration the long-term functionality needs, the amount of daily traffic and employee needs.

We have outlined this pros and cons of some of the leading applications to give you a better idea of what to expect when it comes to factors affecting performance, life expectancy and appearance retention. Depending on the installation project, each of the above types of flooring provide different levels of wear and tear and also vary in design and aesthetic impact.

For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com. For other articles on commercial flooring and industry related news, please click here. 

 

 

 

Flooring Market Trends 2020 Report: Increased Growth Due Technology Advancements and Construction

The global flooring market will continue to expand due technological advancements in materials and application, coupled with the increased growth in the construction sector, according to a recently released research report.

In February, Grand View Research Inc. , headquartered in San Francisco, CA, released its global flooring market report. The report states that fuelling the global flooring market is the rising need for aesthetic interior materials in building structures, in addition to the strong growth of construction sector, especially in the emerging economies.

Commercial application dominated the market in 2019 and is anticipated to continue leading over the forecast period. Rise in construction projects for office spaces, hospitals, healthcare facilities, educational institutes, and others across the globe is likely to support the demand in the forthcoming years.

We have also witnessed these changes first hand. “Prior to the last few years, most commercial projects were straightforward functional builds,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “There wasn’t much in the way of design and many projects were similar. Today the commercial flooring market has seen a strong emergence of colour/texture palettes and a variety of applications and dimensions. More resources are now being spent on accents and textures in the design of a commercial space. There are more colours, borders and features inlayed within walls/floors in commercial projects, including non-public spaces.”

Grand View Research reports, the overall size of the global flooring market size was estimated at USD 369.26 billion in 2019 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 5.9% from 2020 to 2027.

commercial flooring trends 2020

The report states that in U.S., the market for flooring is dominated by soft covering flooring products, such as carpets tiles and wall to wall carpets. However, consumer preferences for aesthetically improved designs, textures, and color and low maintenance and easy to install flooring options are anticipated to drive the demand for resilient materials over the forecast period.

Availability of a wide variety of customizable materials and options coupled with a wide distribution network of industry players has resulted in product reach to major construction projects, thus have supported the growth in the past few years.

GrandView Product Insights

According to Grand View past research, in 2019, soft covering flooring accounted for the revenue of USD 47.5 billion and is anticipated to accelerate at a CAGR of 4.9% over the forecast period.

Commercial flooring market trends show the following:

  • Growing demand for cushioned floors and aesthetically enhanced materials for interior decoration is likely to support the demand for carpets and broadloom floors.
  • Resilient materials are gaining traction in commercial application, such as offices, fitness centers, and hospitality buildings. However, these materials are less likely recyclable, which is expected to restrain the growth, states the report.
  • Rubber flooring is primarily used in commercial spaces. Natural and synthetic rubber floor tiles are exclusively used in fitness centers and other high-traffic spaces.
  • Ceramic and natural stone tiles are the popular choices when it comes to durability and extended life of the floor. Seamless flooring is applied in the industrial environment, wherein, a large floor area is covered with resins and concrete materials. The maintenance and installation of seamless type is less expensive as compared to its counterparts, cites the report.

Commercial Flooring Market Application Insights

Commercial application dominated the market in 2019 and is anticipated to continue leading over the forecast period. Commercial flooring trends show that increased construction across various verticals and rising demand for highly durable and cost-efficient product for use in high-traffic commercial and industrial sectors is projected to drive the growth. The research house also says that considerably driving the market for commercial flooring is the development of new hassle-free installation techniques and related products.

commercial flooring trends 2020

For the global market industrial development in Asia Pacific with significantly increased construction spend in China and India and has majorly contributed to the establishment of new facilities and renovation of the existing ones, thus is likely to aid the demand for flooring products over the forecast period.

In North America specifically, the demand for resilient flooring stood at USD 63.4 billion and is anticipated to accelerate at a CAGR of 5.6% over the forecast period. The established construction industry here, coupled with rising demand for single-family houses is likely to provide growth opportunities for the market.

Key Commercial Flooring Market Players

For the commercial flooring trends in this report, GrandView states the prominent players in the market include Tarkett S.A.; Mohawk Industries, Inc.; Forbo Flooring; RAK Ceramics; Shaw Industries, Inc.; and Interface. These players compete based on product quality, prices, and geographical reach. They are focusing on mergers and acquisitions to enhance their portfolio and to sustain the competitive environment and enhance the product portfolio and to extend their geographical presence across the globe. Moreover, they are investing in R&D to produce recyclable and eco-friendly flooring, aggressive pricing strategies, and marketing management to compete in this market.

To contact Grand View for the full research report: Click here

For more information about commercial flooring and installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com

 

 

Residential Meets Commercial Office Flooring Design

Flooring design represents the first step as many organizations continue to adopt a more residential style of workspace. The intent behind this trend? Boost employee morale and productivity through comfortable, open spaces that foster connection.

As a follow up to our previous blog in this series, we have seen a continued trend of organizations providing flexible hours and workspaces. The result has been more residential style flooring designs and office layouts which provide welcoming environments, while providing all of the amenities of home.

Toronto flooring examples Darwin Fisher

Photo credit: Mohawk Group

As a result, a large array of new materials and their application are giving way to the blurring boundaries between commercial and residential, beginning with flooring design.

Flooring Designs: More Choices Through Technological Advances

Advances in application technology have yielded cost savings for clients by imitating expensive design. This includes thin format porcelain panels that look like marble slabs, LVT with graining and texture to look and feel like real wood and rectangular porcelain tile with 3D design to look like a chevron pattern. All of these options are much more economical to purchase and install.

Toronto flooring contractor

Photo credit: Mohawk Group

New materials also offer bright, vibrant colours and more detail has become standard. Dull neutrals and unassuming colours are now replaced by energetic, creative selections to match the more informal furniture now being found in collective work areas and office entrances.

“We are definitely seeing a more home-like experience in the office,” says Susan Quinn, Account Executive of Toronto-based, Mohawk Group. “In order to retain and ensure employees are happy at work there is an influx of residential finishes and concepts being brought into the corporate environment. Modern offices are being built with collaboration, communication and modularity in mind to enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.”

Corporate designs are becoming multifunctional in nature and include smaller furniture footprints that can be easily rearranged. Plush, comfortable couches are more the norm and traditional cubicles are being replaced by open concept configurations and modular, movable furniture.

Commercial flooring examples Toronto

Photo credit: Mohawk Group

Quinn explains there is now a stronger focus on amenity areas, including increased opportunities for touchdowns as well as areas that are plug and play. Kitchens are becoming more residential with comfortable seating and gathering areas. There is also more attention focused on interfacing with outdoor areas.

Increased Employee Productivity

Blair Setford who is Director, Product Management, at a wealth management company in Mississauga, ON agrees. He enjoys his work environment because he is able to walk down the hall from his office, through the modular kitchen, and out onto the patio. Here the company often hosts corporate/department BBQs and events and provides outdoor tables, including high top seating for its employees and guests. When weather permits, internal meetings are held on the patio, depending on the time of year, and Setford feels these options make employees more productive.

Commercial flooring examples Toronto - Darwin Fisher

Photo credit: Blair Setford

“We like to get outside and enjoy some sunshine, “ says Setford. “Because we are in a suburban location we have to look for amenities to attract talented people to our location and that’s one way we can do it – our own patio.”

The office at Setford’s workplace is a mixture of carpet tile and laminate flooring design. The kitchen offers a foosball table plus a variety of different types of seating for employees. Often employees will congregate in the kitchen an enjoy a game of foosball, or two, at lunch or while having a meeting.

Darwin Fisher commercial flooring Toronto

Photo credit: Blair Setford

The blending of home and office flooring design has also been seen at Darwin Fisher. Elizabeth Zhou, Darwin Fisher’s Project Co-ordinator sees a continuing pattern of more design resources being spent on accents and textures. There are a lot of accent colours, borders and feature within walls/floors in commercial projects, even in non-public spaces.

Flooring Design: A Variety of Finishes And Patterns

“We see more herringbone and chevron installation patterns of carpet, LVT and porcelain tiles that has been made possible with new product design technology. Floor and wall finishes are also now available in all shapes (hexagon, triangle, plank and tile) and sizes,” says Zhou.

This trend has showed no sign of slowing down as there is increased demand for softer, more tactile surfaces with varied patterns and textures. It has become more the norm for today’s more residentially-infused office designs take into account the entire experience. Customers, guests, employees and their comfort is now the focus on every aspect of the designed space.

For information on how to incorporate residential design into your next commercial build or renovation, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Healthcare Flooring Trends: Emerging Products and the Patient Experience

Healthcare flooring trends, from dental offices to hospitals,  are shifting to newer technology due to advancements in materials, manufacturing, application and maintenance.

Low maintenance sheet and tile products are becoming popular choices in this sector —including rubber, linoleum, sheet vinyl, and vinyl (including luxury vinyl tile – LVT), as this vertical requires a multitude of elements, including sanitization for pathogen control and containment.

Healthcare and flooring

Flooring decisions in healthcare depend on how it will affect patients, safety, indoor air quality and infection control.

This is especially important in operating rooms, as well as pre-op exams and post-op recovery spaces where ease of cleaning, sterilization and maintenance are required. Floor surfaces also need to be slip resistant and offer smooth transitions from one area to another for both hospital staff/patients and related equipment.

Healthcare Flooring Trends: Design Moving To A More Residential Feel

In the dental care field, there have been many changes as compared to 20 years ago. In a previous blog post we looked this sector in detail. Dentist offices are no longer cold and clinical. “Dentists are now doing everything they can to make the waiting area as comfortable as possible with a more residential feel,” said Dan Burns, President of Canadian Dental Construction, who has 30 years of experience in dental office builds and renovations. “One of the first concepts to consider before all else is the flooring. It will dictate the tone for the rest of the office as it will set the style and comfort a dentist wants for its patients.”

“From a flooring contractor’s perspective, the biggest change to date that we’ve seen is the dental office flooring moving away from linoleum or ceramic tile to LVT”, says Elizabeth Zhou, project co-ordinator at Darwin Fisher. “This includes the sterilization and lab areas that have typically been ceramic tile in the past. LVT is a better solution acoustically over tile. Plus, it’s easy to maintain and repair.”

Dental office flooring

Dental office design moves from clinical to a more residential feel.

LVT is being installed as it offers a variety of finishes while providing protection from water damage. These materials also offer more padding for longer wear, are damage resistant, easier to clean and require very little maintenance.

“I do think there has been a move toward LVT especially as the product further develops its qualities into becoming more sound absorbent, chemical resistant and water resistant,” Rita Valente of Toronto-based Rita Valente Designs.” LVT gives you options for look along with its own benefits and characteristics. Tile of course does remain popular as well, but it is a much harder surface to work on all day.”

Healthcare Flooring Trends and Flooring Research

Grand View Research, Inc., reports the global commercial flooring market size for was valued at USD 27.06 billion in 2016.  The research house maintains that healthcare is projected to foresee volume growth at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2017 to 2025. Flooring materials are required in various floor spaces in the healthcare industry that includes corridors, medical hallways, operation theaters, clinics, and diagnostic centers. Resilient and seamless floorings are usually required in this industry to bear heavy foot traffic and rolling loads.

Healthcare commercial flooring market

Grand View Research, Inc.

The same types of trends seen in dental offices have also been emerging in the hospital environments. Here we see much more residential feel to help with patient comfort and healing, while flooring options contribute to overall design.

According to Floor Trends Magazine, “with flooring being an integrated part of a healing environment, manufacturers are developing systems of innovative solutions that can be used to encourage optimum health and wellness. And in a market that demands proven, documented performance, healthcare flooring manufacturers are learning the importance of defining their products in terms of human-centered properties and the ability to relate them to outcomes.”

The article goes on to say that Smart flooring choices not only have the potential to maximize efficiencies through faster installation and ease of maintenance, they also can improve patient satisfaction through noise reduction, cleanliness and colors and patterns that support a healing environment.

Dental Flooring Toronto

Healthcare flooring technology is changing in terms of technology, application and the patient experience.

Healthcare Flooring Trends Driven By Patient Experience

From homogeneous sheet in the operating rooms, outpatient surgery centers and ER’s to LVT, laminate or real wood in the gift shop, c-suite offices and chapels; LVT in the corridors, waiting rooms, lobby, and sometimes in the patient rooms and nurses stations, and linoleum, heterogeneous sheet and VCT still present as well, designers today are specifying non-institutional products that resemble the home experience during functional renovations and new builds, according to Floor Trends. Safety prevention of slips and falls is also important in terms of protecting patients and workers. See our previous article on the cost of trips and falls.

Healthcare Facilities Today states that while there is a general trend in commercial building toward sustainability and green options, the decision to choose one product over another generally still comes down to cost, durability and aesthetics. In a healthcare setting, that decision is then compounded by additional concerns, such as how it affects patient care, safety, indoor air quality and infection control.

IMAX Workplace: The Pictures Behind The Flooring Story

After the successful completion of Phase One at IMAX headquarters, Darwin Fisher was asked to provide flooring installation for IMAX Workplace Phase Two.

IMAX Workplace flooring installation Toronto

Darwin Fisher natural stone installation at IMAX Workplace

The project, which is scheduled to conclude in September, has been a  massive undertaking that began several years ago. We’ve included pictures below to show the progress, flooring requirements and how they were integrated into the overall renovation.

IMAX Workplace Phase Two will require 20,000 square feet of various flooring materials including luxury vinyl tile, marmoleum and carpet tile for the reconfiguration of the balance of the existing offices and space. This includes meeting rooms, boardrooms, additional breakout areas and washrooms.

carpet tile Toronto

Darwin Fisher carpet tile installation at IMAX Workplace

“My favourite area would be the café and the intricate work seen there in terms of flooring,” said Lorna Howieson, Senior Director, Global Facilities and Administration, IMAX Corporation. “It looks great and is a fantastic space. Last time we focused on the reception area. This time it was the café. The result is great lighting, signage and the flooring is more intricate.”

LVT and marmoleum flooring examples Toronto

Darwin Fisher LVT and marmoleum installation IMAX Workpace

IMAX Workplace

Darwin Fisher LVT and marmoleum installation IMAX Cafe at IMAX Workplace

See our earlier blog post. Here we profiled the initial phase of the IMAX Workplace development project, which started in 2015. Over 40,000 feet of various flooring materials were required. Of that total there was 3,000 yards of carpet.

LVT and marmoleum examples Toronto

Darwin Fisher LVT and marmoleum installation at IMAX Workplace

This final IMAX Workplace phase will see renovations to over 80,000 square feet. Vestacon Ltd. is the general contractor and Gensler is implementing design.  Phase Two flooring manufacturers include Milliken carpet, LSI Floors, Tarkett Commercial Flooring and Mosa tile.

Regarding the flooring part of the project Howieson has expressed that it’s been a “positive relationship,” with Darwin Fisher.

IMAX Workplace

Darwin Fisher LVT and marmoleum installation at IMAX Cafe, IMAX Workplace

“We need to be ready on demand as delays can create a domino effect on other trades so having materials ready to go is a critical part of the project,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher. “It’s a fine balancing act coordinating with all of the differing trades and dealing with ever changing schedules, but things have been moving forward very seamlessly.”

flooring examples Toronto and Mississauga

Darwin Fisher LVT installation IMAX Workplace

IMAX Workplace Phase One Development Details

Darwin Fisher was part of the project from the beginning. Phase One required changes to meeting rooms, boardrooms, main reception, two theatres, more than a half dozen washrooms and break out rooms. Each of these areas had different flooring needs.

For the first Phase Darwin Fisher worked with Noran Industries Ltd., a construction management and commercial contracting firm, who was the general contractor for the project.

flooring examples Toronto, IMAX Workplace

Darwin Fisher LVT installation IMAX Workplace

Phase One was spearheaded by Quadrangle Architects, who was the prime consultant and lead for the project. The flooring installation took place over a 12-week period. Darwin Fisher worked with a variety of flooring vendors including Milliken Carpet, Tandus Centiva, LSI Floors, Johnsonite Commercial Flooring, Stone Tile International and Mosa.

 About IMAX and IMAX Workplace

IMAX, an innovator in entertainment technology, combines proprietary software, architecture and equipment to create experiences that take audiences beyond the edge of their seats to worlds never imagined. Top filmmakers and studios use IMAX theatres to connect with audiences in extraordinary ways and, as such, IMAX’s network is among the most important and successful theatrical distribution platforms for major event films around the globe.

IMAX is headquartered in New York, Toronto and Los Angeles, with additional offices in London, Dublin, Tokyo, and Shanghai. As of September 30, 2018, there were 1,443 IMAX theatre systems (1,346 commercial multiplexes, 13 commercial destinations, 84 institutional) operating in 79 countries. On October 8, 2015, shares of IMAX China, a subsidiary of IMAX Corp., began trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code “HK.1970.”

To see more images from this project and other Darwin Fisher installations please click here.

For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com.

IMAX Flooring Installation Continues at Canadian Headquarters

As the company has continued to grow worldwide, so has IMAX Canadian headquarters in Mississauga, ON. In an earlier blog post, we profiled the initial phase of the expansion project, which started in 2015.

 “Darwin Fisher completed their scope of work for the project on time and budget,” said Lorna Howieson, Senior Director, Global Facilities and Administration, IMAX Corporation. “That is why they were invited back for Phase Two of this project.”

After the successful completion of Phase One, Darwin Fisher was asked to provide a variety of flooring installation, for 20,000 more square feet of the facility. Darwin Fisher will be focusing on flooring for the reconfiguration of the balance of the existing offices, which includes meeting rooms, boardrooms, washrooms and additional breakout areas.

IMAX headquarters

Phase One Darwin Fisher installation at IMAX headquarters

IMAX Flooring Renovations Phase Two Players

Vestacon Ltd. is the general contractor and Gensler is implementing design.  Phase Two flooring manufacturers include Milliken carpet, LSI Floors, Tarkett Commercial Flooring and Mosa tile.

To ensure the project runs smoothly from a flooring installation perspective, Darwin Fisher pre-ordered all materials which are stored at the company’s warehouse. Pre-ordering ensures proper die lots, colours and patterns in required materials.

“Similar to Phase One, having materials ready to go is a critical part of the project,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher. “Not having to worry about manufacturer lead time allows for more flexibility. For example, some materials are shipped from overseas and require a 12-week plus preorder time. We need to be ready on demand as delays can create a domino effect on other trades.”

McDonald further explains, “It’s a fine balancing act coordinating with all of the differing trades and dealing with ever changing schedules, but things have been moving forward very seamlessly.”

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

Phase One Darwin Fisher flooring installation at IMAX headquarters

Phase One IMAX Headquarters Renovation Summary

As was the case in Phase One, Darwin Fisher also makes it a priority to send in the same crew for each installation. This guarantees familiarity with the complex site. It also ensures the installation crew understands health and safety requirements.

 Phase One of the Canadian headquarter development required changes to meeting rooms, boardrooms, main reception, two theatres, more than a half dozen washrooms and break out rooms. Each of these areas had different flooring needs.

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

Phase One Darwin Fisher flooring installation at IMAX headquarters

Over 40,000 feet of various flooring materials were required. Of that total there was 3,000 yards of carpet. For the first Phase Darwin Fisher worked with Noran Industries Ltd., a construction management and commercial contracting firm, who was the general contractor for the project.

Phase One was spearheaded by Quadrangle Architects, who was the prime consultant and lead for the project. The flooring installation took place over a 12-week period. Darwin Fisher worked with a variety of flooring vendors including Milliken Carpet, Tandus Centiva, LSI Floors, Johnsonite Commercial Flooring, Stone Tile International and Mosa.

Darwin Fisher supplied and installed carpet tile, ceramic tile, natural stone tile and resilient flooring through out the renovated facility and newly developed areas, including the atrium and main reception.

Commercial Flooring Toronto - IMAX

Phase One Darwin Fisher natural stone installation IMAX headquarters

Installation included a new theatre which required broadloom. Located in front of the IMAX building, the area offers seating for 200 people. It is also used for research and development. A second theatre, designed to demonstrate the IMAX home system also required broadloom.

About IMAX and IMAX Workplace

IMAX, an innovator in entertainment technology, combines proprietary software, architecture and equipment to create experiences that take audiences beyond the edge of their seats to worlds never imagined. Top filmmakers and studios use IMAX theatres to connect with audiences in extraordinary ways and, as such, IMAX’s network is among the most important and successful theatrical distribution platforms for major event films around the globe.

IMAX is headquartered in New York, Toronto and Los Angeles, with additional offices in London, Dublin, Tokyo, and Shanghai. As of September 30, 2018, there were 1,443 IMAX theatre systems (1,346 commercial multiplexes, 13 commercial destinations, 84 institutional) operating in 79 countries. On October 8, 2015, shares of IMAX China, a subsidiary of IMAX Corp., began trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code “HK.1970.”

Stay tuned for photos from Phase Two!

To see more projects by Darwin Fisher commercial flooring solutions please click here.

For your free commercial flooring consultation please contact info@darwinfisher.com

2019 Commercial Flooring Trends: Innovation and Design

Commercial flooring trends in 2019 will continue to see design technology innovations in addition to a continuing demand for more informal office spaces.

According to market research, new materials that offer ease of installation in commercial and industrial flooring applications are also driving this market.  

2019 Commercial Flooring Trends: New Designs, Colours, Accents and Textures

In the past most commercial  projects were straightforward functional builds. There wasn’t much in the way of design and many projects were similar.  Today the commercial flooring market has seen a strong emergence of colour/texture palettes, which was rare in the past. More resources are now being spent on accents and textures in the design of a space. There are more colours, borders and features inlayed within walls/floors in commercial projects, including non-public spaces. 

Commercial Flooring examples
Photo credit Centura: Accents and textures in porcelain tile

These types of features have been made possible by the introduction of plank carpet tiles and specialty cut LVT & porcelain tiles (see our previous blog posts) with new product design technology. Floor and wall finishes are now available in all shapes (hexagon, triangle, plank and tile) and sizes.

Although these materials are currently trending they are long lasting and will provide return on investment as they are quite durable and require low maintenance.

Darwin Fisher Imax installation
Darwin Fisher LVT installation

2019 Commercial Flooring Trends: Luxury Vinyl Tile

LVT is extremely versatile from a design perspective. It can replicate the appearance of natural stone or wood but will not wear like natural materials. LVT offers superior thermal and acoustic properties in comparison to hard surface flooring. It won’t chip or discolour and will not expand and contract as wood does in humid or dry seasons. It can also replicate real wood or stone at a fraction of the price. Products made from 100% vinyl are classified as green solutions and eligible for LEED points.

Equipped with a protective wear layer the floor generally needs very little attention to maintain its appearance. It’s water resistant and makes it easy to wipe away surface spills. It’s a good commercial flooring application  alternative as it does not require a high amount of maintenance over its lifespan. A simple sweep or damp mop is all that is required.

2019 Commercial Flooring Trends: Carpet Tile

Carpet tile technology has progressed significantly. Carpet tile systems provide greater flexibility for installation and refitting for a variety of applications across many industries including healthcare, hospitality, retail, education and the entertainment industry.  It is extremely durable and spot areas can be easily changed without requiring additional installation expertise.

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto 2019
Darwin Fisher carpet tile installation

New pattern matching technology ensures that design and patterns are maintained, and the appearance of the finished product resembles broadloom carpet when installed. Fixing broadloom is a larger and more complicated process in terms of seam and pattern matching. It also makes it difficult to fix if there is no broadloom attic stock available.

According to the Milliken Flooring Blog carpet absorbs 3x more noise than hard flooring and can increase productivity by offering extra cushioning for employees who spend a lot of time standing.

2019 Commercial Flooring Trends: Digitally Printed Porcelain Tile

Thanks to manufacturing advancements and innovations in digital printing processes, today’s porcelain finishes mimic a variety of materials that are often difficult to easily discern with the naked eye. The new technology affords detail so precise that these products can mirror the look and feel of a traditional hardwood floor.

Commercial Design Darwin Fisher
Photo credit Centura: Porcelain tile that looks like stone

“More designers are open to this because they mimic the look of real wood but provide you with ease of maintenance,” says Elizabeth Livingston, Architectural & Design Consultant for Toronto-based, Centura Tile. “This technology has resulted in incredible detail and vividness of surface designs applied to porcelain, resulting in tile virtually indistinguishable from actual marble, stone and wood, as well as the ability to create an endless number of unique designs and colours.”

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring examples
Photo credit Centura: Porcelain tile that mimics wood

“When you have wood, the available finishes are limited,” says Livingston. “When you have a wood porcelain plank the finishes are generally anatural finish, but some lines are available in a polished finish as well as atextured finish for wet areas. The digital possibilities are endless.”

No longer limited to traditional sizes, tile can now be manufactured in what are called planks, or tiles that are rectangular in shape. Manufacturers now offer tiles in an assortment of thicknesses from 3.5mm to 20mm thick pavers. Options as thin as a 3.5 mm thick profile can be used for walls, or ventilated façade systems, or on the underside of soffits for large structures such as universities or office buildings.

GrandView Research, Inc., reports the global commercial flooring market size for was valued at USD 27.06 billion in 2016. Product innovation and hassle-free installation technologies in the floor covering sector are expected to expand the industry size over the next eight years.

“Rising demand in construction industry coupled with changing consumer lifestyles and growing demand for insulation are expected to remain the key market drivers. The increasing availability of innovative building solutions that are durable and require low maintenance is projected to impact the industry.”

2019 Commercial Flooring Trends by Vertical

The new technologies are not only impacting the flooring industry as a whole but have also become solid, sustainable options in many verticals. 

Health care

Low maintenance sheet and tile products make the most sense for this sector —including rubber, linoleum, sheet vinyl, and vinyl as this vertical requires a multitude of elements including sanitization for pathogen control and containment. Ease of cleaning, sterilization and maintenance are critical. Floor surfaces also need to be slip resistant and offer smooth transitions from one area to another.

Education

Driven by ever diminishing budgets flooring has to be low maintenance and offer long term durability to protect investments. Often used in these environments are polished concrete, VCT, carpet tiles, and broadloom for main areas with wood and rubber used in recreational areas.

Retail/Hospitality/Entertainment

A wide variety of options areavailable that are generally driven by the specific brand. For example DarwinFisher recently installed new flooring in one of Winner’s newly renovatedstores. We partnered with Pro-Con for a Winner’s Merchants International  installation. The department store chain required a new fit at Lindsay Square Mall in Lindsay, ON.  This location represents the first store in Canada to apply Winner’s new, modern and more upscale design. Changes included a wood grain luxury vinyl tile floor finish and accent areas, in addition to vinyl tile, providing a more sophisticated look see more here.

There are different finishes seen in the retail sector. A mixture of wood, polished concrete, LVT, and digitally printed porcelain tile can be found amongst others.

Digitally printed porcelain finishes are especially well suited to commercial use such as restaurants, hotels, spas, entertainment and retail spaces, making it a perfect fit for any high-traffic area that requires durability and long wear. This type of porcelain can also be offered in slip resistant finishes where required.

2019 Commercial Flooring Trends: Corporate Offices Becoming More Informal

“We are definitely seeing a trend towards creating a more comfortable home-like experience in the office,”says Susan Quinn, Account Executive of Toronto-based, Mohawk Group. “In order to retain and ensure employees are happy at work there is an influx of residential finishes and concepts being brought into the corporate environment…Clients are wanting softer, more tactile surfaces with lots of big pattern and texture.”

 

Mohawk Group and Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring
Photo credit Mohawk Group: Patterns and textures

“We’ve seen some major changes in the development of new materials and applications that are technologically superior and aesthetically pleasing,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring, Inc.

“As there are a wide range of choices available, specifying product can be challenging,” says McDonald.  “As a result, we offer all of our customers our expertise and assistance in evaluating products performance/cost ratios to ensure a budget meets all the targets of a project”.

For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com. For other articles on commercial flooring and industry related news, please click here. 

Craft Contracting and Darwin Fisher: Paradise Developments

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring has a trusted network, partnering with contractors who share the same vision related to craftsmanship and customer service. Recently, Craft Contracting and Darwin Fisher collaborated on a new build project for Toronto-based, Paradise Developments.

Paradise Developments, established in 1972, has been building communities for over four decades. Paradise has built over 13,000 homes to date and is known for its experience and craftsmanship. The builder takes all details into account including location, amenities, open spaces and streetscape, when collaborating with planners, architects, designers and trades.

“Homebuilding gives us a profound sense of fulfillment as we strive every day to provide better environments, contribute to better schools, and support the communities with a sense of social consciousness – all with a level of integrity, respect and compassion for the world which we live in,” the company states.

Commercial Flooring: Starting the Project for the New Head Office

Paradise needed to provide a central location not only for staff but for their new home buyers. This new location would offer final selections for newly purchased homes including flooring, kitchen countertops and bathroom finishes. This required a new head office for the developer.

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring was contracted by trusted partner, Craft Contracting, to install part of the required flooring for Paradise’s new head office in Toronto at Heron’s Hill Way.

Commercial flooring projects Toronto

Photo credit: Craft Contracting

Aligning with Craft Contracting

Craft, established in 1998, provides design-build, construction management and general contracting services to corporations in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).  The company’s experience includes design-build, commercial improvement and renovation projects. The construction company also works closely with building owners, design firms, leasing agents, and property managers.

“From start to finish, we strive to delight our clients through our collaborative approach. Craft takes a hands on approach for all projects under our care and supervision. From the first meeting to final walk through after job completion, we strive to delight our clients through our collaborative approach ensuring that both design/business criteria and financial goals are met,” the company states.

The Final Result

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring was chosen to install a variety of flooring materials throughout the newly constructed office. The main lobby and stairwell were finished with porcelain tile, including a feature wall in the main entrance.  All porcelain tile and wall tile for Paradise Development’s first floor showroom was also provided by Darwin Fisher.

Tile was installed for kitchen showroom concepts and for the staff cafeteria. Darwin Fisher further installed tile in all bathrooms in the building, the front entrance and all flooring on the first floor. Carpet tile was then installed for open areas on the second floor, including staff offices and boardrooms.

Craft and Darwin Fisher worked together to provide a stunning result despite an intensive schedule of working with a variety of different trades to get the job finished on time and to the satisfaction of Paradise Developments.

For more information about Craft and to see all of the final project images please click here.

For more information about Paradise Developments, please click here.

For a free consultation on your next commercial flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com.

 

 

 

Five Expert Tips For Maintaining Your Hardwood Investment

Maintenance After Installation Series: Focus on Hardwood

There are many decisions to make before embarking on your hardwood installation project. Working with a provider who understands the varied intricacies involved is important, as well as seeing the chosen product pre-installation, to ensure it satisfies the needs of both the designer and end user.

Following are a few expert tips to consider before beginning. These considerations will also affect long-term maintenance and protect your hardwood installation investment over the life expectancy of your floor:

1. Determining the Location for Hardwood Installation

Before the hardwood is chosen there are several things to determine, including where the installation taking place. Hardwood, while aesthetically pleasing, would not be recommended in the main entrance of an office building. Seasonal precipitation and chemicals could damage the appearance and life expectancy. It further requires more maintenance over time in terms of dents, cracks, scratches and scuffs due to high volume of traffic.

The office environment where the hardwood is being installed is also key as it must offer no lower than 35% relative humidity. This is harder to maintain during the winter season, but most newer buildings (within the last 10 years) offer humidification pumps to accommodate and maintain relative humidity.

Commercial Flooring examples Toronto

2. Choose the Right Product for Your Hardwood Installation Project

Most commercial hardwood installations are prefinished which means that the product chosen is stained, urethaned and ready for install. This engineered hardwood represents most of the commercial product sold today, however raw wood installations that are sanded, stained and urethaned on site, are generally required when there are special widths or design elements that cannot be met by prefinished requirements.

Below is picture of how most engineered hardwood looks today. You can see the actual thickness of the hardwood and how it is laminated with plywood underneath to give stability and backing to secure to the subfloor. Most hardwood is produced this way as there are many layers of pressed wood to give stability, plus a thick wood veneer on the surface for several sandings, to be followed by a choice of a variety of sealants.

Commercial Flooring Toronto Darwin Fisher

Engineered Hardwood Sample

3. Choose the Right Finish for Your Hardwood Installation

The next consideration is the actual finish. There are 3 types of hardwood finishes. lacquer, water-based urethane and oil or hard wax oil finished. “The majority of the market is lacquer or varathane hardwood,” says says Graham Linton, General Manager of Interior Care.

“The water-based urethane finishes have no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) so are low in odour. They also have a hardener component that cures. This means less downtime as it can be walked on after four hours,” says Linton.  “This allows average sized jobs to be complete and ready for use in one day.”

Interior Care is a member of Darwin Fisher’s trusted partner program. Interior Care offers a comprehensive client maintenance package. Established in 1964, the firm is owned and operated by the Linton family. Servicing all types of flooring finishes, including hardwood, this firm is now in its third generation. It is one of the largest privately-owned specialty flooring maintenance service businesses in Canada. Staff maintain over 700 corporate offices in Southern Ontario.

4. How the Hardwood Installation Finish Affects Maintenance

“Varathane hardwood can be maintained with specialty cleaning products or with a damp mopping – never over wet,” says Linton.  “Hardwood installs that have an oil finished product make scratches less visible and can be oiled out. With urethane or lacquer, it’s difficult to impossible to fix scratches without a refinish.”

Linton goes onto explain that if the scratches are deeper than the actual finish, isolating the repair is difficult. He recommends a refresh of the hardwood finish every 8-10 years depending on the wear and tear of the floor. This is a process called ‘buff and coat’  whereby a contractor surface screens (light sanding) the top layers of the hardwood and applies a new coat of finish which can be varathane or longer wearing urethane.

“The newer trendier hardwood finished floors are oil finished,” says Linton. “This is in contrast to the hard varathane or urethane finishes that show scratches and need full finishing to correct.” Oil or hard wax oil finishes can be oiled and touched up for isolated scratches. The long term issue is this type of hardwood finish, over and up to two years tends to dry out in our four season climate and requires nourishing through periodic re-oiling.

 5. Daily Maintenance of Your Hardwood Installation to Preserve Investment

“For daily maintenance for these specialty oil finishes there is a product to clean and refresh called ‘soap conditioner.’ This is a regular wet cleaning procedure and is simply part of your weekly upkeep of the hardwood,” says Linton.

Another very simple maintenance solution is to ensure the glides on the bottom of the legs of the furniture are replaced or covered with felt – this prevents surface scratching. Felt glides should be changed frequently as they will wear with use.

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring examples Toronto

Photo credit: Unsplash

Following these expert tips will not only ensure a successful hardwood installation project, but return on investment over the life of your flooring. Backed by a simple but effective maintenance care program, your hardwood will maintain a quality appearance despite the wear and tear of regular office traffic.

For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.comFor other articles on our maintenance after installation series, please click here. 

For more information regarding Interior Care, please click here.

 

Service Canada: A Darwin Fisher Case Study

Service Canada is a federal institution that is part of Employment and Social Development Canada. Service Canada’s origins began in 1998 when the Canadian government began developing an integrated citizen-centered service strategy based on detailed surveys of citizens’ needs and expectations.

Operations launched in September 2005, when Service Canada began to officially provide Canadians with a single point of access to a full range of government services and benefits by Internet, telephone, in person, or by mail. According to Wikipedia, Service Canada currently has well over 600 in-person offices  and over 200 mobile outreach service units that operate in remote and isolated areas. Over the years, Service Canada has partnered with over 14 other departments and agencies to provide access to more than 50 government programs and services. It also had established close to 500 points of service across Canada – many of which are outreach and mobile offices designed to deliver programs and services into rural and remote areas.

These numbers are growing, and the ultimate goal is to provide Canadians with a single point of access to all government programs and services regardless of where they live or how they wish to interact with the government.

Service Canada

Through this expansion, Service Canada’s St. Catharines location required new flooring as the existing installation had issues and odors. At that time, Service Canada was also launching a new look which included furniture, paint, light fixtures and accents that were required for the 8,500 square foot (sq ft) space.

Service Canada Job Awarded to Darwin Fisher

A request for proposal was issued by Public Services and Procurement Canada and Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring was the chosen contractor for the project. When the project was awarded, the design was executed by Service Canada. Darwin Fisher then provided mock ups, based on service Canada’s requirements, for approval.

The product chosen was Mondo Contract Flooring rubber flooring sheets and tiles. This would be used for 4,500 sq ft of the flooring. Mondo is a global leader in the rubber flooring market, engineering quality surfaces to meet the highest standards in the industry. Through decades of experience and R&D, Mondo has developed contract rubber flooring that is durable, comfortable, easy to maintain, hygienic, safe and environmentally responsible for education, healthcare and corporate environments.

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

Darwin Fisher installation Service Canada

Mirela Nasaudean, was the Project Manager (PM) and Designer at Public Works Canada (now called Public Services and Procurement Canada), at the time of the project.  Nasaudean explained that leases are generally 5-10 years, therefore finishes are chosen to have long life efficiency. As a result, research for products (which used to be 3-5 years) has now changed to 5-10 years.   The other thing that is becoming more important is environmentally sustainable products like Mondo. Other factors that affect the decision making process include cost, reliability, delivery, timeliness and professionalism.

Service Canada Flooring Installation

The rubber flooring and tile installation was complex as flooring accents were required. This precision detail included inlays and an integrated design (see more Service Canada project pictures here). The remaining 4,000 sq ft required carpet tile, also installed by Darwin Fisher. In the past Nasaudean had used another installer and she was not pleased with the job. “I’ve seen very bad installation. To make my clients happy I need to ensure the product is installed properly and right.”

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

Darwin Fisher installation Service Canada

Nasaudean also explains that when the project is initiated the line of communication is crucial. “As the PM I need an open line of communication with all of the subs and contractors. Darwin Fisher was always on site and on top of the job throughout the installation process. I can’t speak enough about what a great experience I had working with Darwin Fisher,” she said.

“They are friendly, extremely professional and I trusted them right away. They execute quality installations and immediately assess and correct issues if they arise. They have also been there for me long after the job is over and I don’t have to chase them. It’s one phone call and my needs are taken care of. They always do a great job and I will always recommend them…I’ve always had a great experience with them. “

For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Our Partner Network: Focus on Ingenuity – Building It Like They Used To

Darwin Fisher’s long-standing relationship with Mississauga, ON-based Ingenuity was built on shared values and a passion for the industry. From new builds to renovations, their collaboration demonstrates how a team-oriented approach is essential to client satisfaction and project success.

Ingenuity was founded in 2006 by Mario Viti, Peter Viti and Matthew Bucci. The firm’s mandate was to bring attention to detail and craft while putting people first (clients, communities, tenants, trades) by offering exceptional quality and service.

At that time, the three founders realized that a once positive perception of the construction industry had shifted to cynicism, distrust and a lack of confidence.

“Our industry used to be one of a shared love for craft as true craftsmanship went into every room, building or neighborhood that was built,” say Mario Viti, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Ingenuity. “When you enter a building that was built 100 or more years ago, you can still see the care for craft, the details and the passion that went into the project. At some point, when tight timelines and bottom-line pricing started to become the requirement, our industry expectation shifted. Construction companies began doing whatever it took to ensure a quick build at a cheap price.”

Ingenuity: Anchored in Craft and Quality

As a result, Viti explains the industry slowly built itself a reputation for being untrustworthy, notorious for ‘shoddy workmanship’ and lacking in adherence to project timelines and budget.  “Ingenuity was founded to offer transparency, honesty, true-to-expectation pricing and full risk assessment. We deliver on what we promise. Our goal then was to rebuild the trust in our industry and get it back to being one anchored in craft and quality. Today we are a seasoned, dedicated, and passionate group that helps clients envision a new room, building, or business park.”  Ingenuity’s owners are highly involved with every project and start every day on-site. “Our team is comprised of other experienced, passionate individuals, who feel pride in every project that takes place.  We help other people see, appreciate, and enjoy the spark at the heart of our craft,” adds Viti.

As a commercial builder and general contractor, Ingenuity clients range from those with a vast, detailed knowledge of the construction industry, to clients who have never been part of a construction project. As a result, every project is customized, making sure all details are explained, while ensuring the client feels informed and comfortable at every stage of a project.

“We have personal and meaningful partnerships with some of the industry’s most talented individuals and firms,” says Peter Viti, Co-Founder and Principal at Ingenuity . “This includes architects, interior designers, land developers, business owners, real estate consultants, business real estate professionals and of course a variety of trusted and passionate subtrades that we hand-pick for their quality of work and not their bottom-line price.”

team-oriented design, build and commercial flooring project

Ingenuity + Darwin Fisher: Earth Fresh

Carefully Chosen Partners

Ingenuity chooses partners that share common values. This means not being the cheapest, fastest or most profitable. Partners are carefully chosen and share a common goal of being client and craft focused, while having a strong passion for the industry.  “We begin all projects with a team-oriented approach” says Co-founder and Managing Partner, Matthew Bucci. Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) is an approach to building that boils down to all project collaborators working together on the same page from the get-go.  The model creates efficiencies, reduces redundancy and makes better use of what all project members bring to the table. It’s a ‘whole is greater than the sum of the parts’ mentality because everyone is on the same page about the vision from the outset.  “The partners we work with often share the same mentality,” adds Bucci.

Ingenuity and Darwin Fisher – A Team-Oriented Approach

Darwin Fisher has been an Ingenuity partner for over 10 years, collaborating on a variety of projects. “Darwin always delivers,” says Adam Kozak, Ingenuity Project Manager. “That’s why we trust them to provide a quality service from tender to closeout. The proposals they provide are unmatched. Every piece of work is clearly defined. There is no confusion in relation to the scope of work. During construction, they work with us to accommodate the schedule. In the end, they help deliver the project on time and on budget. “

Kozak goes on to explain that for projects such as Earth Fresh, (see below) Darwin Fisher is always equipped with a strong and reliable staff that are able to provide the support needed. “They offer design services that help the client optimize their expectations and select material best suited for their needs. Their dependable resources ensure the team that the right decisions are made throughout the project.”

team-oriented design, build and commercial flooring project

Ingenuity + Darwin Fisher: Earth Fresh

Ingenuity’s All in One, Team-Oriented Solution

Ingenuity offers an all-encompassing solution or can work in varying capacities as per project requirements. Its three main service offerings include the following:

  1. Design-Build

    – building a concept in partnership with a client using hand-picked designers, architects and subtrades to develop into the complete project as envisioned by the client.

  2. General Contracting

    – the project is designed and Ingenuity brings its construction expertise to assemble the right team to see the design come to life with full construction services.

  3. Professional Services

    – Ingenuity will consult on a project and bring construction and design expertise to a group as needed.

“Every project becomes a new challenge for us,” says Bucci. “Every client has a different idea; a different expectation and each project comes with its own intricacies that sends us down a new path of discovery.  We find ourselves learning something new with every project that comes our way.  Twelve years into Ingenuity, we can confidently take on a project as small as an interior retail fit-out to as large as a multi-building, multi-acre business park with individual tenants who each has their own set of needs, design expectations and personalities.”

Peter Viti agrees. “We’ve learned how to work in old buildings, respecting and preserving its heritage. We’ve worked with local conservation authorities, respecting the greenspace around us.  We’ve worked with brands that range from potato growers to aerospace engineers to coffee shops and grocery stores. Our depth of services is growing every day as we learn with every new project.  We don’t see our own education in this industry stopping anytime soon.”

See other Darwin Fisher projects here. For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com.

For more information about Ingenuity please click here.

The Sample Library and Picking the Right Product for Your Project

When installing a commercial project, it’s important to predetermine what works best through flooring samples. Aesthetics are important but the material must be able to withstand traffic patterns and the requirements of the intended location.

For example, carpet tile is ideal for high performance locations such as offices, schools, hotels, airports and retail projects, as it is extremely durable.

Commercial Flooring Examples and Samples Toronto

Darwin Fisher: Carpet tile installation

Beyond performance, understanding life expectancy, appearance retention and maintenance required is also key. Installing the wrong product can create many issues. Prior to installation, research on product characteristics will help to mitigate future problems – from the sub floor to surface.

Flooring Samples Help Determine Which Materials Make Sense

Whether the project is a large or small installation, the required lifespan will determine time, complexity of preparation needed and the choice of materials. These factors will also dictate budget. There are many flooring options and related samples to choose from including carpet tile, luxury vinyl tile, hardwood and ceramic.

As today’s flooring choices offer a vast array of styles, colours and finishes, Darwin Fisher provides flooring samples of varying different materials onsite. A flooring sample library acts as a valuable resource for both designers and end users when picking the best-suited materials for the installation at hand.

Flooring Manufacturer Samples

Flooring samples from a variety of reputable flooring manufacturers are made available here. Products fall under the categories of carpet, resilient and hard surfaces and hardwood and laminate.  Manufacturer samples include leading product vendors: Milliken, Mohawk, Armstrong, Olympia Tile, and Mannington Commercial.

office carpet tile toronto

Commercial flooring manufacturers

Images of products are provided online, however actual flooring samples can help make the final decision for preference, colour, pattern, ‘look and feel’, surface finish and other characteristics.

It will also help to determine materials for project parameters that have specific needs. For instance, requests for non-glue flooring are increasing, especially in newer buildings that demand raised access flooring. Some modern office buildings will not allow for fixed flooring installs. As a result, products like luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and carpet tile are in higher demand as they can easily be removed or reconfigured.

There are many different styles to choose from. LVT is extremely versatile from a design perspective. It’s a good commercial flooring application alternative as it does not require a high amount of maintenance over its lifespan. It can replicate the appearance of natural stone or wood but will not wear like natural materials. LVT offers superior thermal and acoustic properties in comparison to hard surface flooring. Equipped with a protective wear layer the floor generally needs very little attention to maintain its appearance.

Commercial Flooring Examples and Samples Toronto

Darwin Fisher: Entertainment One raised flooring installation

Determining the Best Materials

Carpet tile is well suited to high traffic areas. It also offers greater acoustic benefits. Noise levels are significantly reduced with carpet tiles when compared to any other type of hard surface flooring product. Carpet is better at absorbing noise over hard surfaces and will also absorb impact traffic. It can increase productivity by offering extra cushioning for employees who continuously stand. From a maintenance standpoint, spot areas can be easily changed without requiring additional installation expertise.

Carpet Tile Installation and Samples Toronto Darwin Fisher

Photo by Anton Darius | @theSollers on Unsplash

Hardwood while aesthetically pleasing, would not be recommended in the main entrance of an office building. Seasonal precipitation and chemicals could damage the appearance and life expectancy. Hard surface products such as hardwood, stone and ceramic also increase budget. They further require more maintenance over time in terms of dents, cracks, scratches and scuffs.

There are many decisions to make before embarking on your next project. It’s important to work with a provider who understands the intricacies involved with all types of surfaces, from carpet to hardwood and laminate, to ceramic tile. It’s also important to physically see the chosen product before it is installed to make sure it satisfies the needs of both the designer and end user.

All commercial flooring application projects bring varying challenges and understanding the associated details before any materials are installed will ensure the success of your project.

For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Commercial Flooring Trends: Advancements in Design, Technology and Installation

Technology advancements and installation techniques are driving commercial and industrial flooring applications and trends in specific areas.

“We’ve seen some major changes in the development of new materials that are both technologically superior, but also aesthetically pleasing, that have had a positive impact on the industry,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring, Inc., based in Mississauga, ON. “This includes new and innovative products.”

Grand View Research, Inc., reports the global commercial flooring market size was valued at USD 27.06 billion in 2016 and product innovation and hassle-free installation technologies in the floor covering sector are expected to expand the industry size over the next eight years.

commercial flooring market trends

Source: Grand View Research, Inc.

Driving these innovations and trends are a variety of flooring features that have been made possible with new design technology, offering finishes that are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.

At Darwin Fisher we’ve seen many new offerings in the following areas:

Commercial Flooring Trends: Luxury Vinyl Tile

LVT is extremely versatile from a design perspective. It can replicate the appearance of natural stone or wood but will not wear like natural materials. LVT offers superior thermal and acoustic properties in comparison to hard surface flooring. It won’t chip or discolour and will not expand and contract as wood does in humid or dry seasons. It can also replicate real wood or stone at a fraction of the price. Products made from 100% vinyl are classified as green solutions and eligible for LEED points.

Commercial Flooring Trends in Toronto

Darwin Fisher Luxury Vinyl Tile Installation at IMAX Corporate office

Equipped with a protective wear layer the floor generally needs very little attention to maintain its appearance. It’s water resistant and makes it easy to wipe away surface spills. It’s a good commercial flooring application alternative as it does not require a high amount of maintenance over its lifespan. A simple sweep or damp mop is all that is needed.

Commercial Flooring Trends: Carpet Tile

Carpet tile technology has progressed significantly. Carpet tile systems provide greater flexibility for installation and refitting for a variety of applications across many industries including healthcare, hospitality, retail, education and the entertainment industry.  Carpet tile is extremely durable and spot areas can be easily changed without requiring additional installation expertise.

New pattern matching technology ensures that design and patterns are maintained, and the appearance of the finished product resembles broadloom carpet when installed. If broadloom is chosen and an area is damaged, fixing the spot in question is a much larger and more complicated process in terms of seam and pattern matching. It also makes it difficult to fix if there is no broadloom attic stock available.

Commercial Flooring Trends in Toronto

Darwin Fisher Carpet Tile Installation

According to the Milliken Flooring Blog carpet absorbs 3x more noise than hard flooring and will also absorb impact traffic. It can increase productivity by offering extra cushioning for employees who spend a lot of time standing.

Commercial Flooring Trends: Digitally Printed Porcelain Tile

Thanks to manufacturing advancements and innovations in digital printing processes, today’s porcelain finishes mimic a variety of materials that are often difficult to easily discern with the naked eye. The new technology affords detail so precise that these products can mirror the look and feel of a traditional hardwood floor.

“More designers are open to this because they mimic the look of real wood but provide you with ease of maintenance,” says Elizabeth Livingston, Architectural & Design Consultant for Toronto-based, Centura Tile. “This technology has resulted in incredible detail and vividness of surface designs applied to porcelain, resulting in tile virtually indistinguishable from actual marble, stone and wood, as well as the ability to create an endless number of unique designs and colours.”

The digitally printed porcelain finishes are especially well suited to commercial use such as restaurants, hotels, spas, entertainment and retail spaces, making it a perfect fit for any high-traffic area that requires durability and long wear. This type of porcelain can also be offered in slip resistant finishes where required.

commercial flooring trends Toronto

Photo credit: Centura Tile

“When you have wood, the available finishes are limited,” says Livingston. “When you have a wood porcelain plank the finishes are generally a natural finish, but some lines are available in a polished finish as well as a textured finish for wet areas. The digital possibilities are endless.”

No longer limited to traditional sizes, tile can now be manufactured in what are called planks, or tiles that are rectangular in shape. Manufacturers now offer tiles in an assortment of thicknesses from 3.5mm to 20mm thick pavers. Options as thin as a 3.5 mm thick profile can be used for walls, or ventilated façade systems, or on the underside of soffits for large structures such as universities or office buildings.

Also Trending: Residential Meets Commercial

“We are definitely seeing a trend towards creating a more comfortable home-like experience in the office,” says Susan Quinn, Account Executive of Toronto-based, Mohawk Group. “In order to retain and ensure employees are happy at work there is an influx of residential finishes and concepts being brought into the corporate environment…Clients are wanting softer, more tactile surfaces with lots of big pattern and texture.”

New Designs, Colours, Textures and Accents

Elizabeth Zhou, Darwin Fisher’s Project Co-ordinator notes that when she first started in the industry, most commercial projects were straightforward functional builds. There wasn’t much in the way of design and many projects were fairly cookie cutter.  “Gradually I started to see more conceptual drawings and colour/texture palettes, which was rare in the past. Now they envision how the space would look, showing more attention is being paid to the aesthetic feeling rather than just functionality.”

Zhou sees a continuing pattern of “more resources being spent on accents and textures in the design of a space. There are a lot of accent colours, borders and features within walls/floors in commercial projects, even in non-public spaces.”

flooring trends toronto

Photo credit: Centura Tile

With today’s choices, Darwin Fisher clients are much more inclined to request accent colours and textures even if it comes at an extra cost. “We now usually field a flooring choice being cut in with one or two accents colours. We also see more herringbone and chevron installation patterns of carpet, LVT and porcelain tiles,” says Zhou.

These types of features have been made possible by the introduction of plank carpet tiles and specialty cut LVT & porcelain tiles (see our previous blog posts), that has been made possible with new product design technology. Floor and wall finishes are now available in all shapes (hexagon, triangle, plank and tile) and sizes.

“I also see very clever cost saving trends to imitate expensive design: thin format porcelain panels that look like marble slabs, LVT with graining and texture to look and feel like real wood, rectangular porcelain tile with 3D design to look like a chevron pattern etc. These are all much more economical to purchase and install,” explains Zhou.

Although these materials are currently trending they are long lasting and will provide return on investment as they wear well and require low maintenance.

“There are a lot of flooring types and applications to consider. We offer all of our customers our expertise and assistance in evaluating products performance/cost ratios to ensure a budget meets all of the targets of a project,” concludes McDonald.

For information about flooring applications and installation, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

 

Our Partner Process: Spotlight on Pro-Con Construction

Darwin Fisher seamlessly works with all of our partner networks, including designers, general contractors and project managers, in a timely, proactive manner. No matter how small or large the project, we have a proven process that we apply to each flooring installation.

Darwin Fisher Partner Process: Winners, NFL, ProCon Construction

Darwin Fisher Partner Network

Darwin Fisher Partner Pro-Con: Since 2010

General contractor Pro-Con Construction, based in Mississauga, ON, has been a Darwin Fisher partner company for many years.  The relationship with Pro-Con began in early 2010. Since that time, we have worked on a number of diversified projects. As both companies have the same philosophy in terms of quality, service and customer satisfaction, the initial project has evolved to a long-standing union. Since the first partner installation over seven years ago, Darwin Fisher has completed over 100 projects, across a number of industry segments.

Pro-Con has often partnered with Darwin Fisher due to our experience. Our group of highly trained experts work with our partners to customize and restore corporate and commercial spaces, bringing them to life. This includes retail store build outs, residential units, government offices and much more.

Our first job working with Pro-Con began with Service Canada in St. Thomas, ON. See project here. Since that time, installations with Pro-Con have included seniors homes and residential units for Cedarbrooke Lodge and Weston Gardens. We have also executed projects for Dollar Store Plus and SupperWorks, in addition to retail sector, big-box stores.

Winners flooring installation: Darwin Fisher commerical flooring contractors Toronto

Darwin Fisher Partner Projects: NFL, Winners, Service Canada

Earlier this year we partnered with Pro-Con for a Winner’s Merchants International  installation. The department store chain required a new fit at Lindsay Square Mall in Lindsay, ON. This location represents the first store in Canada to apply Winner’s new, modern and more upscale design. Changes included a wood grain luxury vinyl tile floor finish and accent areas, in addition to vinyl tile, providing a more sophisticated look.

Other installation projects with Pro-Con include Sunlife Financial CanadaBentall-Kennedy, Indusite Realty Corporation and Davpart Real Estate Investment and Property Management. We’ve also worked with corporate clients on furniture lift projects (we own a furniture lift system called Levitate that allows your carpet to be replaced without dismantling your employee workstations) such as the National Football League.

As part of all of these projects we have installed a wide variety of materials including carpet, resilient/hard surfaces and hardwood and laminate.

While materials and installation is the cornerstone of what we do, we follow a proven partner process to keep projects running on time and budget, with minimal disruption. Our proven process focuses on seven key areas.

Darwin Fisher Commerical Flooring Toronto

Darwin Fisher Seven Step Partner Process

The Darwin Fisher Partner Process

1. Collaboration

We provide scope and specifications planning to the smallest detail; this includes take offs of the required space to help the client understand how the product will look in relation to the surface area in question.

2. Specified product

We provide product performance/cost ratios to ensure that the budget meets all project parameters. We also provide verification samples to confirm the product is representative of what the designer or client requires (an important process in eliminating any material errors before work starts).

3. Budget

We provide line item budgets that capture the details of site preparation factors and offer guidance on potential issues and  procedures to remedy the problem. This includes post installation maintenance and various details that are inherent to each unique installation. This gives our partners the data needed to notify the client in advance of the project at hand.

4. Site Supervision

We continually make sure our project managers are on site to offer proactive solutions should any problems arise. Our seasoned staff work with all on-site trades/contractors assigned, ensuring effective and efficient co-ordination of activities.

5. Quality

We ensure specifications are met and quality is at the highest level. You can depend on us to provide a smooth project transition. We are reliable, proactive and always prepared to meet requirements to the highest standard.

6. Punctuality

We ensure that our portion of the project will be delivered within the time frame required. When the project starts, we order materials and needed inventory, which we store at our warehouse if required. We then assign our experts to the project site to oversee installation. This ensures every project is on time.

7. After Service

We are always available after the job is complete to meet the full satisfaction of our partner network. We accompany our clients on a site walk through to ensure all project specifications are met. Our clients are then given the flooring maintenance requirements and warranty manuals for installed products.

We apply this process to all of our working relationships. It has proven to save time, money and create efficiencies within the project to best service our valued partners, like Pro-Con.

For information on your next commercial build or renovation, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

For more information about Pro-Con Construction please click here.

The Importance of the Warehouse In New Builds + Renovations

Why Having A Warehouse Is Critical to Your Flooring Project’s Success

One of our recent commercial flooring installations is a great example of why having a warehouse facility is important to a project’s success. For more than 50 years, Pusateri’s Fine Foods of Toronto has been selling specialty items imported from all over the world, delighting its customers with unique and rare gourmet products.

Pusateri’s decided it would downsize its head office to a smaller location, further east of its original spot on Bloor St. As part of the move, the fine-food emporium’s new corporate headquarters would require new flooring. Looking for a professional and cost-effective solution, Pusateri’s contracted Darwin Fisher.

Commercial Flooring in Toronto

Photo by Brooke Lark on Unsplash

Planning the Project Space

The project would require the installation of 11,000 square feet of carpet tile which would be provided by the Mohawk Group.The space was reviewed with Pusateri staff. Darwin Fisher provided a quick and accurate take off for the new area. A graphic representation of the materials to be used was applied directly to the floor plan so the client could easily understand how the proposed project would look.

Darwin Fisher’s project management software was then used to produce a line item proposal to track the status of the project through the implementation cycle.

Through the project lifecycle, Darwin Fisher worked with Pusateri’s, the project manager, property manager and building owner of the new office space. There were also many different trades that required intensive on-site scheduling.

Commerical flooring and having a warehouse

Photo by Casey Lee on Unsplash

As a result, the two-day project became two weeks due to the need to accommodate all of the players involved. On the day of the scheduled flooring installation, the truck that was set to deliver the carpet tile was halted and materials were sent back to the Darwin Fisher warehouse. The large warehouse at Darwin Fisher’s head office has been an invaluable resource for many projects, including this one.

The Warehouse and Contractor Schedules

When working with a variety of different trades, there are often unforeseen circumstances or schedule delays with different projects, despite careful planning. This is never a problem as the warehouse stores client materials through pre-order, or as a service to clients when installation times are delayed, or project parameters change. Once it’s time to move items, each order is retrieved, grouped, packaged and checked for completeness before being dispatched to the job site.

Without the warehouse it would be difficult to manage items required for jobs. In this case, the truck could not be accepted due to other trades working on the new site. However, this became a simple delay. When it was time for the installation, the materials were consolidated and shipped out to Pusateri’s project site.

The Warehouse: Lowering Costs and Ensuring Delivery

The flexibility and functionality of our warehouse helps improve customer service, lower costs and offers the availability to have the right products, at the right place and the right time. In this situation, the warehouse acted as a buffer, balancing the time and demand for materials for just in time delivery. In other instances the warehouse has been used for storing products that need longer lead times when being shipped from overseas. It is also a critical resource when there are several iterations of a larger project which require the phasing in of a variety of flooring materials, and longer-term storage is needed.

As the project was delivered on time and on budget, and Darwin Fisher was able to accommodate changes to the schedule, Pusateri staff were very pleased with the final result.

For more information on you next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com

For more information about Pusateri’s Fine Foods, please click here.

 

 

Residential Design Moves into the Corporate Workplace

The lines between home and office design are beginning to blur. Companies like Google have pioneered some of the more modern spaces, setting the tone for informal offices built with collaboration, communication and modularity in mind – residential meets commercial design.

Many organizations are adopting this style of workspace with the intent of boosting employee morale and productivity through comfortable, open spaces that foster connection, while providing the amenities of home.

Residential Meets Commercial Design

Image: Mohawk Group

As more organizations provide flexible hours and workspaces, a welcoming environment is being offered to entice employees to the office. As a result, a large array of new materials and their application are giving way to blurring the boundaries between commercial and residential design, starting with flooring.

Residential Meets Commercial Design

“We are definitely seeing a trend towards creating a more comfortable home-like experience in the office,” says Susan Quinn, Account Executive of Toronto-based, Mohawk Group. “People are spending more than half of their entire day at the office. In order to retain and ensure employees are happy at work there is an influx of residential finishes and concepts being brought into the corporate environment.”

Quinn explains there is now a stronger focus on amenity areas, including increased opportunities for touchdowns as well as areas that are plug and play. Kitchens are becoming more residential with comfortable seating and gathering areas. There is also more attention focused on interfacing with outdoor areas. “Clients are wanting softer, more tactile surfaces with lots of big pattern and texture. I am also seeing a new demand for wood.”

Commercial Flooring EOne

Photo: Darwin Fisher, Entertainment One

The installation of new materials that offer bright, vibrant colours and more detail are becoming the standard. Dull neutrals and unassuming colours are being replaced by energetic, creative selections to match the more informal furniture now being found in collective work areas and office entrances. Corporate designs are becoming multifunctional in nature and include furniture that is smaller, modular and can be easily rearranged. Stiff chairs are being replaced by plush couches. Traditional cubicles are being replaced and seen as segregated work areas of the past.

 

Residential Meets Commercial Design

Image: Mohawk Group

Residential Meets Commercial: Designers Using More Colours, Textures and Accents

The blending of home and office design has also been seen at Darwin Fisher. Elizabeth Zhou, Darwin Fisher’s Project Co-ordinator notes that when she first started in the industry, most commercial projects were straightforward functional builds. There wasn’t much in the way of design and many projects were fairly cookie cutter.  “I’ve seen designers use the same concept for multiple projects. Gradually I started to see more conceptual drawings and colour/texture palettes (which were rare 4 years ago). Now they envision how the space would look, showing more attention is being paid to the aesthetic feeling rather than just functionality,” says Zhou.

She sees a continuing pattern of “More resources being spent on accents and textures in the design of a space. There are a lot of accent colours, borders and feature within walls/floors in commercial projects, even in non-public spaces. Seems like people are realizing productivity and morale would be better if employees weren’t looking at the same colours walls and floors all day!”  With today’s choices, Darwin Fisher clients are much more inclined to request accent colours and textures even if it comes at an extra cost. “We now usually field a flooring choice being cut in with one or two accents colours. We also see more herringbone and chevron installation patterns of carpet, LVT and porcelain tiles,” says Zhou.

Residential and Commercial Flooring

Photo: Darwin Fisher, Entertainment One

These types of features have been made possible by the introduction of plank carpet tiles and specialty cut LVT & porcelain tiles (see our previous blog posts), that has been made possible with new product design technology. Floor and wall finishes are now available in all shapes (hexagon, triangle, plank and tile) and sizes.

“I also see very clever cost saving ways to imitate expensive design: thin format porcelain panels that look like marble slabs, LVT with graining and texture to look and feel like real wood, rectangular porcelain tile with 3D design to look like a chevron pattern etc, which are all much more economical to purchase and install,” concludes Zhou.

Residential Meets Commercial At Your Local Dentist

In our May blog on dental clinics, a more residential feel can also be seen from the cold, clinical environments of the past. Here we see residential meets commercial through the patient experience, which has become a key factor in driving both visits and retention. Demands for new aesthetics include warmer and more inviting colours. Elements such as fireplaces, coffee and water stations, iPad stations and free WiFi all play a significant role in both renovations and new builds.

Residential meets Commerical design

Photo: Canadian Dental Construction

“Dentists are now doing everything they can to make the waiting area as comfortable as possible,” said Dan Burns, President of Canadian Dental Construction, who has 30 years of experience in dental office builds and renovations. “One of the first concepts to consider before all else is the flooring. It will dictate the tone for the rest of the office as it will set the style and comfort a dentist wants for its patients.”

These spaces are now being designed to have a more ‘family room’ feel with all of the amenities including, WiFi, water coolers, snacks stations, large screen TVs and comfortable seating.

For information on how to incorporate residential design into your next commercial build or renovation, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Does Your Entryway Carpet System Have the Right Stuff?

After your build or renovation is complete, you will want to protect the durability and look of your flooring investment while offering safety and comfort through an entryway carpet system.

The wrong entryway system in your newly installed project can send the wrong message, spoil first impressions and also lack the required functionality.

Entryway carpet system

Image: Mohawk Group

The entrance of a building should not only build a positive lasting impression from a design perspective but offer an entryway product, which offers a non-slip surface to protect customers, employees and manage risk.

Mohawk Group offers a Walk Off entry system called Tuff Stuff II which helps to capture residues from inclement weather and dirt at the door of your facility, while protecting your flooring investment.

“Soil and moisture are the main causes of premature wear and eventual replacement of floor covering,” says Susan Quinn, Account Executive of Toronto-based, Mohawk Group. “Tuff Stuff tiles can reduce these residues by up to 91%.”

Tuff Stuff was designed to protect facilities from elements like snow and sand, while providing a safe, non-slip surface in high moisture areas. Tuff Stuff uses what is called ‘scraper’ yarns in the carpet tiles that comprise the Walk Off system. Each square yard can hold up to 5.6 lbs of sand, which is 2.4 times its normal weight. It is also able to absorb 7.3 lbs of moisture per square yard, which is 3.07 times its normal weight.

Entryway Carpet System

Image: Mohawk Group – Tuff Stuff Walkoff Entryway Carpet System

“Tuff Stuff hides the dirt quite significantly and the entire system looks aesthetically pleasing. It’s a much more presentable solution,” says Quinn. “Our Tuff Stuff product is a carpet tile and laid directly to floor and offers a very fluid, no transition kind of look which differs greatly from a carpet runner or a carpet matting solution. Also, from a facilities manager perspective it will save money in maintenance fees because it’s easier to clean and maintain and a lot more durable.”

For general maintenance the modular systems can be easily cleaned by vacuuming. If a specific area becomes damaged, individual tiles can simply be swapped out or repaired.

The entire system is laid as a carpet tile and the fibre that comprises these tiles is made with Duracolour, which is stain free, sustainable and offers water-only stain removal to remove 96% of all common stains.

In addition to low maintenance, the tiles themselves are made with 30% recycled content: 25% pre-consumer & 5% post-consumer which reduce both cost and impact on the environment.

Beyond maintenance, Quinn also explains that this system helps Mohawk clients avoid the liability of slip and fall incidents caused by slippery entryways in their facilities by providing the higher traction, moisture-absorbing technology.

Traditional matting systems when combined with hard surface flooring can pose a slip hazard when wet or soiled with residues from outdoors. Area mats and runner matting systems can bunch or ripple and can often result in a tripping hazard.

Entryway Carpet System

Source: Mohawk Group

Slips and falls can be costly. Commercial insurer CNA Commercial Property and Casualty identifies lack of slip resistance as the number one cause of slip and fall accidents. The insurer claims 570,000 slips, trips and falls cause 15 percent of the 3.8 million disabling workplace injuries each year, as well as an estimated 5,100 workplace fatalities. Property owners can be held liable for all direct and indirect costs associated with these incidents.

Furthermore, according to the University of Florida Extension, Preventing Injuries from Slips, Trips and Falls: At an average cost of $28,000 per injury, total liability exposure for the direct costs of slip and fall accidents approaches $16 billion dollars per year. Indirect costs can be as high as $940,000 per incident, increasing liability by more than 3,300 percent.

In addition to providing mitigation from risk, protection of long term investment and ease of maintenance, all Tuff Stuff Walkoff Systems from Mohawk are warranted for fibre wear, backing material and performance for 10 years or the lifetime installation of the product.

If your entryway system needs an upgrade or update items to consider when installing a new system are:

  • Soil and moisture capture/barrier
  • Safety
  • Risk
  • Ease of maintenance
  • Long-term investment
  • Aesthetic appeal

For information about entryway system installation, please contact info@darwinfisher.com

For more information about Mohawk Tuff Stuff II please see Mohawk Group.

 

Sit To Stand Workstations and the Right Carpet Can Increase Productivity and Overall Health

Sit to Stand Workstations: Darwin Fisher Commerical Flooring

Image: Unsplash – Katie Montgomery

Being sedentary is bad for your body, however research indicates that we don’t need to exercise more, we actually need to sit less. Sit to stand workstations offer a healthy solution. Sitting for long periods of time has been linked to a variety of health issues, according to research from the Mayo Clinic. These include increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, cancer and a variety of other related conditions including high blood sugar, increased blood pressure, weight gain and problems with cholesterol.

The Mayo Clinic’s James A. Levine, M.D., Ph.D, reports that “the muscle activity needed for standing and other movement seems to trigger important processes related to the breakdown of fats and sugars within the body. When sitting, these processes stall — and your health risks increase. When you’re standing or actively moving, you kick the processes back into action.”

The Sit To Stand Workstation Solution

It’s not surprising that sit to stand workstations are becoming a sought after solution for employees who sit for long periods of time and are concerned about their health.

Elizabeth Zhou, Darwin Fisher’s Project Co-ordinator, made the move from sitting several months ago and has found a noticeable difference in her work day and overall health.

“I have greater concentration and focus and I’ve noticed my productivity has also increased,” says Zhou. “I don’t like sitting. Even at home I rarely sit down. It just feels better to be standing. When you are sitting there’s less inertia to get things done.”

 

Darwin Fisher: Carpet under Sit to Stand Workstations Matter

Zhou’s Sit to Stand Workstation

What’s Under Your Feet Counts: Carpet

 To make standing even more comfortable there are a variety of anti-fatigue mats available that offer cushioning to help mitigate issues related to tired and achy feet. Zhou finds her mat makes a noticeable difference when she stands for most of the day.

In addition to anti-fatigue mats, there are other important considerations such as installing the correct office carpet. Milliken recommends that offices use carpet with open-cell cushion backing, which is proven to improve comfort while standing and can reduce muscle fatigue by up to 24%. According to Milliken, hardback carpet tiles simply don’t provide the necessary levels of under-foot support and comfort that’s needed for standing work –which can work against sit-to-stand implementation.

Why Excessive Sitting is Bad For You

JustStand.Org, which is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of excessive sitting and provides research and support solutions to help reduce sedentary behaviour at work and home, cites mounting research that there is a strong correlation between long periods of sitting and elevated risk of illness or injury. Experts call this “sitting disease.”

Key Research Findings Include

  • Workers who used sit-stand desks were 78% more likely to report a pain-free day than those who used regular workstations, according to a Stanford University back pain study.
  • In 2013, American Medical Association adopted policy recognizing potential risks of prolonged sitting and encouraged employers, employees and others to make available alternatives to sitting, such as sit-stand desks.
  • A 2011 study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that workers equipped with sit-stand workstations mood states improved and prolonged sitting periods were reduced.

Exercise Isn’t Enough

What is most concerning is that research is also proving that you can’t exercise away the harmful effects of sitting disease. The Journal of the National Cancer Institute released an extensive Meta Analysis confirming that effects of prolonged sedentary behaviour is extremely harmful and can increase the risk of colon, lung and endometrial cancers. Even more worrisome is that “adjustment for physical activity did not affect the positive association between sedentary behavior and cancer.”

Why Being Less Sedentary Will Save Your Life

Image: Unsplash – Arek Adeoye

The study states that those who exercise often and regularly meet the daily-recommended levels were at the same risk of those who were sedentary all day. The report results “indicate that the increased risk of cancer seen in individuals with prolonged time spent sedentary is not explained by the mere absence of physical activity in those persons.”

Benefits of Standing More: Sit to Stand Workstations

Zhou says she feels more “energized” in general after getting used to the new standing workstation. It took a few weeks for Zhou to adjust to the standing posture and position. At first, she explains, she did not know how to stand properly. For example, locking her knees instead of standing with them slightly bent. In addition the body has to break the pattern of learned behaviour associated with sitting so muscles need time to adjust.

Why Sitting Can Be Fatal to Your Health

Image: Unsplash – Martins Zemlickis

The system Zhou uses has a hand crank to adjust the height of her workstation and is very quiet. This is helpful when moving from sitting to standing and vice versa.

Now that it’s been several months since moving to the new workstation, Zhou feels she is faster at responding to emails because she feels “ready to go” when already in the standing position. “I alternate between sitting and standing now. I sit when I’m doing a proposal or something very time intensive because I have to really focus. Everything else I do standing and I find that much better.”

When not at work Zhou enjoys running and any activity that doesn’t involve sitting.

For more information regarding carpet solutions related to sit to stand workstations please contact info@darwinfisher.com

IMAX – Bigger Is Just the Beginning – For Newly Designed Canadian Headquarters

IMAX, an innovator in entertainment technology, combines proprietary software, architecture and equipment to create experiences that take audiences beyond the edge of their seats to worlds never imagined. Top filmmakers and studios use IMAX theatres to connect with audiences in extraordinary ways. With over 1,200 theatres across 75 countries, IMAX’s network is among the most important and successful theatrical distribution platforms for major event films around the globe.

As the company has continued to grow, so has its Canadian headquarters in Mississauga, ON. The office had originally been built in the early 1990s and much of the existing office space was original and needed to accommodate expansion requirements.

Commercial Flooring Toronto - IMAX

IMAX flooring installation by Darwin Fisher

Phase One – IMAX Redevelopment and Expansion

A large redevelopment project was initiated in 2015. Phase One required changes to meeting rooms, boardrooms, main reception, two theatres, more than a half dozen washrooms and break out rooms. Each of these areas had different flooring needs.

“The entire flooring area for Phase One covered about 40,000 feet and of that about 3,000 yards of carpet,” said Brent Fader, Managing Director and Vice-President of Business Development for Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “The rest was comprised of a variety of flooring materials.”

Darwin Fisher worked with Noran Industries, a construction management and commercial contracting firm, who was the general contractor for the project. Darwin Fisher supplied and installed carpet tile, ceramic tile, natural stone tile and resilient flooring through out the renovated facility and newly developed areas, including the atrium and main reception.

Installation included a new theatre which required broadloom. Located in front of the IMAX building, the area offers seating for 200 people. It is also used for research and development. A second theatre, designed to demonstrate the IMAX home system also required broadloom.

Phase One was spearheaded by Quadrangle Architects, who was the prime consultant and lead for the project. The flooring installation took place over a 12-week period. Darwin Fisher worked with a variety of flooring vendors including Milliken Carpet, Tandus Centiva, LSI Floors, Johnsonite Commercial Flooring, Stone Tile International and Mosa.

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

IMAX flooring installation by Darwin Fisher

Materials and Scheduling

“This project was unusual from Darwin Fisher’s perspective as we were able to work with the full range of flooring products on one project. For example natural stone, ceramic tile from Europe, carpet tile, LVT and broadloom. We worked with an acoustical consultant as the broadloom had to be a special grade in the test theatre. We also provided the acoustical wall coverings,” explained Fader. “Even the type of tile installed in the information technology room used was designed to protect the equipment from static electricity.”

The main project challenges came from coordinating with all of the differing trades and dealing with ever changing schedules. As the project was complex, it was critical that Darwin Fisher was ready to install when required.

Darwin Fisher decided to pre-order materials. “By pre-ordering and storing everything at our warehouse we not only ensured proper die lots, colours and patterns in required materials, but that we were ready for our portion of the project when the schedule was repeatedly changing,” said Fader.

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

IMAX flooring installation by Darwin Fisher

“As phasing in is critical, not having to worry about manufacturer’s lead time allowed for flexibility. For example, Mosa tiles from Holland require a 12-week lead time. We did similar things with all of the materials. We could be ready on demand. Once one trade falls behind it can be like a domino effect, so it’s really important to stay on schedule.”

To mitigate any on site problems, Darwin Fisher sent the same crew for each job. “When you have a fairly complicated facility like IMAX it helps to familiarize crews with the location and have them understand health and safety rules plus security requirements. This way, you aren’t retraining or educating an employee each time a different installer is required.”

IMAX Flooring – The End Result

Lorna Howieson, Senior Director, Global Facilities and Administration, IMAX Corporation agrees with this approach. “It would affect me in a negative way if all of that didn’t happen,” she said. “This was valuable because we run our own building and if we have contractors that know what they are doing no alarms get set off and staff don’t have to come in and do overtime to fix associated problems that can potentially arise.”

Darwin Fisher completed their scope of work for the project on time and budget and that is why they were invited back for Phase Two of this project. “Darwin Fisher was unique in the way we developed a relationship directly with Brent. That doesn’t always happen with sub trades,” said Howieson.

“The schedule was easy and service was easy. We are happy and we get tremendous feedback on our reception area,” said Howieson.

Commercial Flooring Toronto - IMAX

IMAX flooring installation by Darwin Fisher

“Another huge thing we’ve benefited from working with Darwin Fisher is that we are close in terms of proximity. Whenever I call Brent he says, ‘I’ll be right over.’ It’s incredible I just talk to him and he’s there. He would just show up. I really like that service.”

Phase Two – New Players and Development

For the flooring portion of the project, Phase Two is expected to roll out over the next seven months. Darwin Fisher will be working with the same flooring suppliers from Phase One, however there is a new general contractor,Vestacon. Gensler, a large design firm, is the new prime consultant.

Darwin Fisher will be focusing on flooring for the reconfiguration of the balance of the existing offices, which includes meeting rooms, boardrooms, washrooms and additional breakout areas.

Stay tuned to our News Section for Phase Two updates and results!

For more information about commercial flooring installation solutions please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Dental Office Renovations: Catering To The Patient Experience From Floor to Ceiling

Dental offices are no longer the cold, clinical environments of the past. Renovations are giving way to warm, welcoming spaces that offer advanced functionality for patients, dentists and their staff.

To execute a successful renovation, and to ensure that downtime for a dentist is kept to a minimum, there are several project planning items to consider.

The Patient Experience

Image: Canadian Dental Construction

Planning a renovation and choosing who will manage your project may seem like a daunting task, however choosing a provider experienced in understanding today’s dental office requirements is a dentist’s best bet.

The patient experience has become a key factor in driving both visits and retention. Demands for new aesthetics include warmer and more inviting colours. Elements such as fireplaces, coffee and water stations, iPad stations and free wifi all play a significant role in both renovations and new builds. Competition in the dental office sector has also been a contributing factor with increased growth in dental office renovations and builds in suburban areas.

It All Starts With Flooring

“Dentists are now doing everything they can to make the waiting area as comfortable as possible,” said Dan Burns, President of Canadian Dental Construction, who has 30 years of experience in dental office builds and renovations. “One of the first concepts to consider before all else is the flooring. It will dictate the tone for the rest of the office as it will set the style and comfort a dentist wants for its patients.”

There have been many changes in today’s dentist offices as compared to 20 years ago. “For example, we now design the operatories to be less intimidating so we take as much focus as we can off of the patient chair and plan the room around audio visual. All of those intrusive instruments are now tucked away and hidden. The look is much neater, cleaner and less intimidating for the patient. Even softer lighting in the ceilings is taken into account,” explains Burns.

The Patient Experience: Operatory rooms

Image: Canadian Dental Construction

For flooring, there has been a move away from using only ceramic tile. Many of the newer flooring finishes like vinyl plank flooring and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are being used as they offer a variety of finishes and colours while providing protection from water damage. These materials also offer more padding for staff, are damage resistant, easier to clean and require very little maintenance.

After installation, if an accident occurs, these modular flooring systems, including vinyl plank, LVT or carpet tile, offer an easy way to isolate a damaged area and provide the flexibility of spot repair rather than having to replace the entire floor.

Patient welcome area

Image: Canadian Dental Construction

Emerging Flooring Technologies for Dental Offices

“From a flooring contractor’s perspective the biggest change has been dental office flooring moving away from linoleum or ceramic tile to LVT”, said Brent Fader, Director of Operations for Toronto-based Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “LVT is a better solution acoustically over tile. It also offers more cushion for dentists and staff who are on their feet all day. Plus, it’s easy to maintain and repair. There are still some ceramic tile requests for the lab or sterilization area where you can get the spill of chemicals, but 80% of our installations are now LVT. We are also getting requests for carpet tile in the dentist office and consultation rooms.”

Emerging flooring technologies have also delivered time efficiencies for renovation projects. Darwin Fisher was able to decrease the flooring installation time from three weeks to one week for a Greater Toronto Area dentist by using a new product called Loose Lay.

Loose Lay LVT can be directly applied over existing flooring materials and does not require adhesives, staples or click and lock systems. Instead the backing of each tile is made with materials that use friction to effectively grip the sub-floor beneath. These vinyl tiles are dimensionally stable so that they will not expand or shrink depending on moisture levels. This eliminates expansion gaps between the tile and the wall. It is a more environmentally friendly solution, cleaner, cost effective and less disruptive in terms of downtime required.

For Darwin Fisher, the design community drives 75% of the flooring chosen. Rita Valente of Toronto-based Rita Valente Designs has worked with Darwin Fisher on several dental office renovation projects.

Patient experience waiting room

Image: Canadian Dental Construction

Dental Offices: Design Trends and Finishes

“The main changes I have seen since starting in this industry 17 years ago would be the personal touch dentists are putting into their offices. If they love marble, they will use it, if they love art, they will plaster the walls with one of a kind,” said Valente. “Of course, we still make sure the clinics are practical, affordable and the dental ergonomics and room adjacencies are still what matter most to have an effective and properly designed clinic for patients and staff.”

Another trend is that offices are becoming more ‘green and eco-friendly’ in the selection of dental equipment and finishes being chosen throughout. For patient privacy dentists also stress the need for soundproofing. Walls, ceiling and flooring materials selected need to help protect patient privacy and hinder sound travel.

Valente explains that the flooring and its characteristics are frequently requested design requirements for renovations. Walls and counter tops will weather wear and tear, but nothing is in more need of repair than flooring. The biggest concerns are the wear layers for flooring, warranties provided for commercial flooring and what flooring will give the dentist the least maintenance.

“I do think there has been a move toward LVT especially as the product further develops its qualities into becoming more sound absorbent, chemical resistant and water resistant. Everyone loves the look of hardwood, but it is very rare that a dental office would install hardwood. LVT gives you options for look along with its own benefits and characteristics. It has been a great product so far in the offices I have used it in and you will see it used in many offices to come. Tile of course does remain popular as well, but it is a much harder surface to work on all day, and it’s all about personal preference.”

New dental offices: The patient experience

Image: Canadian Dental Construction

Rita Valente Designs and Darwin Fisher have worked on numerous dental office projects together. Darwin Fisher has provided flooring installations for over 50 dental offices over the course of the company’s history

“In the times I have worked with Darwin Fisher, I have had a great experience in regards to service and products alike. When called on answers were given, when needed, support arrived. When samples were requested, they were delivered. Some projects do not always run smoothly, but even at the worst of times, Darwin Fisher provided attention to detail, support and resolutions. Darwin Fisher works with you as a team to ensure the end user is happy with all final products and installations,” said Valente.

Dental Offices: Successful Planning and Execution

From planning and design to implementation and installation there are many things to consider for a dental office renovation or build, but all roads point to the patient experience. Burns, Valente and Fader all agree that the most important element is understanding what the dentist needs and how to properly execute. Detailed planning is critical to a successful project that is completed on time and budget. As there are many moving pieces and different trades that must come together, teamwork is paramount. If one link fails the project will end up having set backs.

For more information about dental office renovations and flooring installation solutions please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Digitally Printed Porcelain vs. Traditional Hardwood

Porcelain tile has come a long way. Thanks to manufacturing advancements and innovations in digital printing processes, today’s porcelain finishes mimic a variety of materials that are often difficult to discern with the naked eye. The new technology affords detail so precise that these products can mirror the look and feel of a traditional hardwood floor.

Porcelain tile

Image: Centura Tile

“More designers are open to this because they mimic the look of real wood but provide you with ease of maintenance,” said Elizabeth Livingston, Architectural & Design Consultant for Toronto-based, Centura Tile. “This technology has resulted in incredible detail and vividness of surface designs applied to porcelain, resulting in tile virtually indistinguishable from actual marble, stone and wood, as well as the ability to create an endless number of unique designs and colours.”

Digitally Printed Wood Finishes

The digitally printed porcelain finishes are especially well suited to commercial use such as restaurants, hotels, spas, entertainment and retail spaces, making it a perfect fit for any high-traffic area that requires durability and long wear. This type of porcelain can also be offered in slip resistant finishes where required.

Porcelain tile wood look

Image: Centura Tile

“Digital porcelain tile can be used anywhere you would normally use wood,” said Livingston. “Many of our manufacturers now have 20mm thick exterior pavers to complement their interior lines allowing for a seamless transition from interior to exterior. The 20mm thick tiles or planks can be installed on our deck or patio system or can be loose laid or cemented in place.”

Livingston further explains that unlike real wood, porcelain is UV resistant, chemical resistant and offers long-term aesthetic appeal for a wood finish look that can extend outdoors if required. Wood porcelain planks can also be installed on walls to add visual warmth, while deterring vandalism in public spaces.

Porcelain tile bathroom

Image: Centura Tile

No longer limited to traditional sizes, tile can now be manufactured in what are called planks, or tiles that are rectangular in shape. Manufacturers now offer tiles in an assortment of thicknesses from 3.5mm to 20mm thick pavers. Options as thin as a 3.5 mm thick profile can be used for walls, or ventilated façade systems, or on the under side of soffits for large structures such as universities or office buildings.

Centura’s line of thin porcelain tile comes in various looks of wood, natural stone, luxury cement, oxides and decorative finishes. Sizes are available in 10mm and 12mm with panel sizes as large as 1620mm x 3240mm.

“When you have wood the available finishes are limited,” said Livingston. “When you have a wood porcelain plank the finishes are generally a natural finish, but some lines are available in a polished finish as well as a textured finish for wet areas. The digital possibilities are endless.”

Porcelain tile kitchen

Image: Centura Tile

Manufacturers can now choose the wood and marble they want to replicate as part of their line. Clients can then choose custom digital on porcelain slabs at a premium. This is generally used when they want to do a company logo or custom images such as photography. With the gains made in the digital printing currently available, anything can be replicated. For example, if a hotel chain would like a specific image on the porcelain tile it’s now possible.

“We can do digital printing on tiles like wood grain or ones made to look like precious stones. We can also produce mosaics at a premium,” said Livingston.

Benefits of Porcelain Tile

The benefits of porcelain tile over hardwood are compelling for budgetary and location requirements:

  • Investment 

    Porcelain will wear longer than hardwood and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) but is more expensive than LVT. However, porcelain tile offers long-term advantages over traditional hardwood in terms of investment.

  • Durability 

    Porcelain tile is much more durable and can withstand higher impact from such things as heavy foot traffic and dropped objects.

  • Damage and Replacement 

    It’s much easier to replace a specific area when compared to hardwood floors. When wooden floors are scratched it can be costly to fix, often requiring sanding, refinishing, or full replacement. The long wear and durability offered by porcelain tile avoids this problem. It is also easier to fix ‘spot’ areas.

  • Maintenance 

    Porcelain tile is very easy to maintain. A simple sweeping and mopping is all that is required for ongoing maintenance.

  • Moisture Resistant 

    Hardwood expands and contracts with moisture and dry conditions. Real wood is not well suited to areas that have regular contact with water. As it is not compromised by moisture or water, porcelain tile is well suited for commercial kitchen and bathroom areas.

  • Radiant Heating Options 

    Porcelain tile, unlike hardwood has a radiant heating feature if the installation requires heated flooring. It also stays cool in warmer climates due to the porcelain qualities.

  • Size and Application Options

    There are a variety of sizes available, and rectangular shapes can be suited to different shapes, lengths and widths. Traditional hardwood typically is offered in sizes based on a limited number of plank sizes. Wider plank sizes are often much more cost prohibitive.

Porcelain tile bathroom

Image: Centura Tile

There are many benefits associated with installing porcelain tile floors over traditional hardwood. When creating and designing spaces indoors or out there are versatile solutions that the new wood look finishes provide.

The creative possibilities are virtually unlimited with an array of sizes, patterns and colours. With the durability and long wear digital porcelain floors provide, both the design and investment are protected for years to come, making this a solid option for both high traffic areas and long-term investment requirements.

For more information about porcelain tile flooring installation solutions please contact us today at info@darwinfisher.com.

For more information about porcelain tile products and finishes, please see Centura Tile

Commercial Flooring Applications: Critical Factors to Consider

Performance, life expectancy and appearance retention are critical when choosing commercial flooring applications. There are several things to consider before the project begins. Proper planning will help determine how to choose the best product while protecting your investment long after the project is complete.

Installing the incorrect product in the wrong place can create many issues. Research on product characteristics will help to mitigate future problems – from the sub floor to surface.

On average, most flooring installations have a life expectancy of 10 years. The lifespan will determine time, complexity of preparation required and the choice of materials needed. These factors will also dictate budget.

The first step requires a site review. The condition of the sub floor will determine if new finishes can be directly installed or if there is more extensive preparation required for a problem-free installation.

Requests for non-glue flooring are increasing, especially in newer buildings that demand raised access flooring. Many of the newer office buildings will not allow for fixed flooring installs. As a result, products like luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and carpet tile are in higher demand as they can easily be removed or reconfigured.

Whatever the chosen material, how it will wear will depend on location. For example, laying hardwood in a main floor office entrance would not be recommended in a climate that has several changes of season. Rain, snow and salt can damage appearance and life expectancy.

Hardwood, Stone and Ceramic – Commercial Flooring  Applications

Hard surfaces such as hardwood, stone or ceramic are appealing, however all of these choices will significantly increase budget. Installation and overall maintenance required will also be more costly. Hardwood requires more expertise and over time will become marred with dents, scratches and scuffmarks. Stone or ceramic can crack or stain, but aesthetically, these are solid choices.

commercial flooring applications - ceramic

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Carpet Tiles

Another option is carpet tiles, which can offer greater acoustic benefits. Noise levels are significantly reduced with carpet tiles when compared to any other type of hard surface flooring product. According to the Milliken Flooring Blog carpet absorbs 3x more noise than hard flooring and will also absorb impact traffic. It can increase productivity by offering extra cushioning for employees who spend a lot of time standing.

Commercial Flooring applications - carpet tile

Darwin Fisher: Sheridan Residences Conference Centre

Carpet tile technology has progressed significantly. New pattern matching technology ensures that design and patterns are maintained and the appearance of the finished product resembles broadloom carpet when installed. Carpet tile is ideal for high performance office space, schools, transportation, hospitality, airports, public spaces and retail as it is extremely durable and spot areas can be easily changed without requiring additional installation expertise.

Broadloom

Broadloom carpet is less durable than carpet tiles. Appearance retention can be compromised over time. Stains are an issue as they can’t be spot replaced like carpet tile.

Broadloom also can pose problems with pattern seam matching. There is also more excess waste and delamination can occur. If the carpet and the secondary backing are not attached properly, over time they can separate, causing an installed carpet to wrinkle or fibres to stray and pull at the separation point. The most common cause of delamination is improper formulation or application of the adhesive.

Luxury Vinyl Tile

Commercial Flooring applications _ LVT

Darwin Fisher: IMAX

LVT is extremely versatile from a design perspective. It’s a good commercial flooring application alternative as it does not require a high amount of maintenance over its lifespan. It can replicate the appearance of natural stone or wood but will not wear like natural materials. LVT offers superior thermal and acoustic properties in comparison to hard surface flooring. Equipped with a protective wear layer the floor generally needs very little attention to maintain its appearance.

Unlike carpet, which absorbs moisture, these tiles can be slippery even though the product is more slip-resistant than hard surface products. LVTs also don’t offer the comfort of carpet when standing for long periods of time unless used with a cushioning product like Instalay.

There are many decisions to make before embarking on your next project. It’s important to work with a provider who understands the intricacies involved with all types of surfaces, from carpet to hardwood and laminate, to ceramic tile.

All commercial flooring application projects bring varying challenges and understanding the associated details, especially when there can be a lot of uncertainties within a tight schedule, is the first step to protecting your long-term investment.

For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com.

 

 

Entertainment One: A Partner Case Study

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

eOne main reception

 

Entertainment One, also known as eOne, is a Canadian multinational media distribution company that acquires, produces and handles distribution for film, television and music worldwide.Based in Toronto, ON, the company was founded in 1973 as the music distributor, Records on Wheels. By 2003, the company had begun to expand. It would eventually become a global content leader in home entertainment distribution, international film and television acquisition and production through acquiring Alliance Films, and many other distributors and studios.

After the Alliance Atlantis film division was sold to eOne January 9, 2013 (formerly owned by CanWest Global Communications), in addition to several other acquisitions, the need for eOne to find a location to accommodate its growing ranks took centre stage. It was decided that the building at 134 Peter Street would be the media giant’s new home, offering customizable space specifically suited for the amalgamation.

In 2014, XDesign, a Toronto-based interior design firm was awarded the design for what would be eOne’s Toronto headquarters. The new building was under construction and an aggressive, phased, move-in was scheduled for several satellite offices.

eOne flooring and carpet

“The planning and logistics were paramount,” said Greg Quinn, President, XDesign. “The organization required moving five different outer locations into the new building. Coming up with a plan define a new home for these folks, while building in flexibility for future expansion was first priority. This new location would be used to develop a unified culture and new beginning for eOne.”

There was an existing base building at the new location, however eOne continued to build, expanding upward. The entire project would take almost nine months of initial planning and nearly two years to complete.

XDesign chose Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring as its flooring installation partner, once the company was awarded the job. “We have a solid eco system of partners and vendors – it’s all about trusting who you work with and that they are supposed to do. Darwin Fisher has proven that and they’ve earned the trust of our team,” said Quinn.

XDesign completes an average of 120 projects per year and up to $90 million of business per year. “The partners we work with need to be accountable for their products and services. Shared values are also important. We have done a lot of work with Darwin Fisher over the years and their track record was impeccable before and continues to be,” said Quinn.

The design and flooring project consisted of 70,000 square feet and spanned across main reception, kitchen and general office areas. Darwin Fisher refit five floors over five months working with XDesign. The materials used included Milliken carpet tile and Torlys vinyl flooring.

The comprehensive installation required raised access flooring so all duct work, wiring and electrical services would run under the floor, requiring many cut outs. “One of the most complex pieces is the flooring. All of Darwin Fisher’s staff and work was 110%, including raised flooring that wasn’t anticipated in the execution schedule,” said Quinn.

Entertainment One

eOne raised access flooring

The floor needed to be left accessible to be easily lifted and reinstalled when changes to services were required, which happened repeatedly, throughout the project. “The installation was completed on a very tight schedule and timeline,” said Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher. “There was no time to make a mistake. We were installing in small areas, large areas and dealing with electrical and mechanical requirements simultaneously. This was one of the more challenging jobs.”

Not only was the installation complex, the building was under new construction therefore many different deadlines and logistics factored into the project. “We had to work with many trades at once and be very accommodating and flexible to make sure the project remained on time and budget. Each project silo needed access to the area, while we made sure the flooring installation was completed on time so as not to affect the budget and schedule,” said McDonald.

The partners on this project both agree that eOne was thrilled with the final result and the way in which the project was expedited. “It’s been a year and flooring is rock solid and everything looks great,” concluded Quinn.

 

Luxury Vinyl Tile: Superior Cushioning and Acoustics Insulation

Through technical advancements, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) have become thinner in profile. To remedy issues associated with product progression, such as denting, InstaFloor has developed a unique, environmental and cost-effective solution.

Instalay for LVT, which is a patented technology developed and owned by InstaFloor, is stable, durable and non-collapsing. This environmentally sound solution is supported by recycled vulcanized rubber crumb granules. When compressed they provide cushioning performance, however, when the weight is removed the granules return to their original shape. Instalay alleviates denting of tiles via the rubber cushioning and reduces the risk of subfloor imperfections showing through the finished surface.

“Instalay recycled rubber crumb is obtained from used truck and car tires,” said Paul Laporte, sales manager for Instalay North America. “We keep old tires out of the dump sites. In addition to being environmentally friendly, Instalay provides outstanding acoustic properties, superior cushioning for underfoot comfort and impact energy absorption.”

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There are competitor products in the marketplace, however they use foam-based solutions, which are not an equivalent technology, explains Laporte. Instalay is an underlay product, which uses a self-adhesive system. “Our product has zero VOC and our acoustic ratings are one of the highest in the marketplace,” said Laporte. Each product has been thoroughly designed, tested and manufactured, using carefully selected components, to ensure that reliable, cost-effective results are consistently obtained.

“The biggest demand for our product is for acoustics, especially for condominiums and large hotel refits,” said Laporte. He went on to explain installers also enjoy the ease of installation and lack of downtime required as key benefits. It provides an ideal solution for refits as tiles can be easily removed. Installation is quick and efficient and there are no adhesive-related products required.
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Instalay For Luxury Vinyl Tile Benefits Summary

  • Unique self-adhesive construction
  • Considerably reduced installation time and cost
  • Quick to fit, easy to work with
  • Sub-floor preparation times significantly reduced
  • No messy wet adhesives or open time delays
  • Loose lay installation for rapid fitting and easy future lifting
  • Choice of high grab or low grab adhesive
  • Extremely versatile – ideal for use under most types of flooring
  • Can be walked on immediately after flooring is installed
  • Made from recycled tire rubber
  • Environmentally friendly and fully recyclable – ‘Cradle to Cradle’
  • 100% rebound (non-collapsing)
  • Excellent acoustic insulation
  • Comfort and stability
  • Anti-microbial and anti-allergy
  • Durable and non-absorbent
  • Suitable for use with under floor heating systems
  • Guaranteed for 10 years (terms & conditions apply)

screen-shot-2016-11-21-at-1-36-07-pm

Instalay is extremely versatile and can be used to install solid, engineered and laminate wood floors, LVTs, ceramic, porcelain and natural stone tiles, carpet tiles and carpets. The product can also be installed over other flooring applications.

Currently, InstaFloor is renovating a large house in Las Vegas. The customer didn’t want the ceramic tile to be removed. InstaFloor leveled out the grout line and installed the LVT directly over the existing tiles. The residential application will be guaranteed for 25 years.

Beyond residential, Instalay is used worldwide across a variety of industries including hospitality, healthcare, education, leisure and retail facilities. Instalay has provided superior cushioned retail flooring for Clark’s International shoe stores across North America, where heavy retail traffic is constant. There are many other case studies across a variety of industries.

For more information about flooring installation solutions please contact us today at info@darwinfisher.com.

For more information about Instalay, please see instafloorna.com

*All images courtesy of InstaFloor North America.

Glueless Carpet Tiles: Good For Your Corporate Health and Budget

carpet-solutions

Traditional glues used in some flooring applications may contain formaldehyde or other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can trigger asthma attacks, allergies, and have been linked to cancer. For employees that are sensitive to compounds used in carpet glues, there are alterative carpet systems designed to help improve health and your bottom line.

Market Solutions

Glueless carpet systems are also sought after by companies that prefer more environmentally conscious products. Ecologically friendly solutions that don’t use traditional carpet adhesives are widespread. Innovations available in the market today include:

  • Connection systems designed to anchor the bottom of the tile, eliminating adhesive on subflooring or underlayment
  • Tape solutions which adhere to the corners of each tile to create a floating floor that stabilizes itself through attachments of adjacent tiles
  • Pressure sensitive adhesive which provides an alternative to wet adhesive

Used for both permanent or temporary installation projects, glueless carpet tiles offer a cost-effective solution to fixed flooring. These products have provn to be ideal for selective carpet replacement areas. As the carpet isn’t physically attached to the floor it can be easily moved and relocated. When changes to existing floor layouts are required, glueless systems are easy to lift and reconfigure based on the needs of the project at hand. Glueless carpet systems are also versatile. They can be installed over a variety of existing surfaces including wood, luxury vinyl tiles, concrete and raised access flooring.

These systems provide greater flexibility for installation and refitting for a variety of applications across many industries including healthcare, hospitality, retail, education and the entertainment industry.

Quick, Easy and Less Mess

Glueless carpet systems are a sound alternative as they create less mess. Clean up is efficient as there are no pails of glue and extra-related adhesive materials required. As sticky substances are not required for the sub floor, odors and harmful emissions cease to exist. Recently, Darwin Fisher installed a floating floor system for a large client with an employee that had a sensitivity to traditional adhesives. The solution proposed for the employer was quick, seamless and enhanced the environment from a health perspective, appeasing both parties.

From a productivity standpoint, extra labour isn’t required for floor preparation. Installation time is also reduced as there is no drying time required. Realizing these efficiencies helps to increase productivity while reducing costs.

For property managers, if a tenant decides to leave, the return to base building is also quicker, efficient and less costly. There is no grinding, no floor residue or any material to remove, besides the actual carpet tile.

carpet2

Extending Your Budget

These popular carpet systems are not only environmentally appealing but also enticing from a budget perspective:

  • As there is no need for glue, concerns in relation to health hazards, in addition to the environmental impact of toxic glues are eliminated
  • Offering little or no disruption to employees, glueless systems save time and money
  • As there is no mess, installation time is faster
  • Drying time is eliminated so refits can be installed much more quickly
  • No employee downtime due to health related issues

To learn more about glueless carpet solutions and the associated benefits, please contact us today at info@darwinfisher.com

Levitate – Raise Your Image Without Raising Your Budget

If you have an office which needs updating or renovating, zero downtime is usually the goal. When employees are unproductive for the duration of the refit it can be both frustrating and unproductive for everyone.

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For a highly populated call centre space the advantages of Levitate are evident. Photo source: Milliken

The dismantling of systems furniture, wiring and workstations is expensive in terms of time and budget. In addition, the associated manpower and skill needed for set up and take down is substantial.

“The biggest concern our clients want us to address when it comes to carpet installation is the associated logistics: How long is this going to take and how long will the office be disrupted?” said Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring.

Darwin Fisher’s secret weapon is Levitate, an Office Lifting System that saves, time, money and eliminates disruptions. This technology gives Darwin Fisher the ability to replace carpet without dismantling office workstations, desks and other furniture. Time-consuming disconnection and reconnection of telephone lines and computer cables are also eliminated.

Levitate is an office lifting system which enables system users to re-carpet occupied office areas providing significant savings in time, cost and disruption. Levitate is a series of custom designed mechanical tools which are placed underneath any type of office furniture to lift it smoothly and safely. The furniture goes up smoothly and the carpet gets installed properly.

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Photo source: Milliken – Levitate Office Furniture Lifting System

“Levitate’s ‘no jolt’ screw system raises furniture off the ground in one smooth controlled and safe motion,” explains McDonald. “A traditional refit often requires the services of numerous teams of different contractors. We ensure the entire job is handled by a single professional Darwin Fisher team that provides a reliable and totally coordinated approach.”

The cost savings that Darwin Fisher provides its clients using this system is in excess of 50%. How does this work? Re-carpeting an office area typically entails complex organization and a long list of cost considerations including:

  • specialist furniture dismantling
  • removal teams
  • telephone engineers
  • computer technicians
  • storage
  • staff relocation
  • downtime

All of these costs are eliminated with Levitate.

Zero Disruption

Downtime for many companies means lost business. With Levitate Darwin Fisher can replace large areas of carpet overnight, rather than waiting to the weekend, helping to keep downtime to an absolute minimum.

Protection

Unlike other office lifting systems Levitate’s unique jack mechanism lifts furniture in one smooth and controlled motion. This “no-jolt” system means that your office will be completely protected throughout the refit.

Zero Downtime

Levitate ensures that carpet installation is a smooth process. Your office is left completely intact. When the job is complete, each workstation is in its proper place, computers boot up, personal effects are untouched. The experience is seamless. There is no need for staff to waste time emptying and refilling desks and filing areas. This helps to keep staff happy and productive.

If the only thing standing between you and a new carpet is a couple of tons of furniture, Darwin Fisher has your solution. See the following examples below.

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

Darwin Fisher Installation – Private Software Firm

Commercial Flooring Examples TorontoDarwin Fisher Installation – Entertainment One

 

 To find out more about our Levitate system and carpet installation please contact us.

Global Commercial Flooring Market Will Rapidly Expand By 2020

The global commercial flooring market is expected to reach $166.63 billion U.S by 2020, according to a recent study. North America is also expected to grow considerably over the forecast period.

The Global Commercial Flooring Market By Product, Application and Segment Forecasts, published by Grand View Research, Inc., reports that technological advancements and installation techniques have driven residential, commercial and industrial flooring applications. The San Francisco-based research firm also states that increasing demand in the construction industry is expected to be the key driving force for the market over the next six years.

“The report findings make sense as flooring is an essential item,” said Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring, Inc., based in Mississauga, ON. “Over the past 10 years we’ve seen some major changes in the development of new materials that are both technologically superior, but also aesthetically pleasing, that have had a positive impact on the industry. This includes demand for environmentally friendly solutions which include bamboo, cork, hardwood and certain types of carpet.”

The report states development of new and innovative products and hassle-free installation techniques have considerably driven the commercial flooring market.

“There’s an abundance of excellent technology which has really driven the ease of installation,” said McDonald. “Our services reflect our investment in technology to save our clients time and money. For example, we own a furniture lifting system called Levitate, which gives us the ability to replace carpet without dismantling office workstations, desks and other furniture. It’s innovations such as this that are really helping to increase customer satisfaction, helping to drive the overall market.”

Commercial Flooring Trends Toronto

Source: Grand View Research, Inc.

The report segments the commercial flooring market into soft coverings, seamless flooring, resilient & non-resilient flooring, and woods & laminates. Soft coverings comprise of carpet tiles, broadlooms, and other flooring types such as rugs & carpets while resilient flooring includes linoleum, vinyl sheet flooring, vinyl tiles and primary rubber flooring.

“When it comes to materials, every situation is quite different and requires a customized solution,” said McDonald. “Our project management expertise includes understanding the details of site needs including preparation, installation, and post maintenance issues that make each job unique, including eco-friendly solutions.”

The report further explains that resilient flooring is on the brink of high penetration over the next six years. Healthcare and education sectors generate significant demand for vinyl sheets with the former using homogeneous sheet in clinical environments. Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) have percolated to most of the commercial flooring application sectors and have increasingly replaced vinyl composite tiles (VCT) in corporate sector applications such as back office, cafeterias, break rooms, and corridors.

 

Flooring red and white accents design in Toronto

Imax          Designer Name: Quadrangle

“We have noticed a huge upsurge in LVTs and carpet tiles,” said McDonald. “Ceramics has also been a big market for us. These three areas are all growing sectors for Darwin Fisher.”

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

Sheridan Residences and Conference Centre    Designer Name: Darwin Fisher

McDonald’s observations concur with the report, which states that “compared to the residential sector, carpets’ demand in the commercial flooring sector is significantly higher. Carpet tiles have garnered importance in corporate applications and that a vast majority of the non-resilient commercial flooring market is comprised of ceramic tiles, in which porcelain is the dominant material owing to high-temperature tolerance and stain resistance. Hardwood and laminate are mostly used in niche applications,” the report reveals.

“There are a lot of flooring types to consider. We offer all of our customers our expertise and assistance in evaluating products performance/cost ratios to ensure a budget meets all the targets of a project,” explained McDonald.

Report Insights

ApplicationKey commercial flooring application areas include commercial offices, education, healthcare, leisure & hospitality, public buildings, and retail. Expansion of ultramodern offices and workspaces along with rapid urbanization and evolved consumer lifestyles has led to the growth of global commercial flooring market. The demand for commercial flooring materials across healthcare has been substantial owing to the increased requirement of anti-bacterial and slip resistant flooring solutions. High-end retail stores are expected to generate considerable demand due to increased remodeling activity.

CompetitionKey commercial flooring market participants include China National Building Material Co. Ltd., Flowcrete (RPM International), Hanwha, James Halstead, LG Hausys, Milliken Floor Covering, Nora, Novalis, NOX Corporation, Tajima, Tkflor, and Toli flooring. Companies are constantly developing innovative products and display & distribution systems such as online catalogs and virtual assistants to help consumers choose the perfect product for the intended application.

Commercial Flooring Examples Toronto

Corporate Office     Designer Name: XDesign

In addition, emergence of modern digital ink printing technology for creating patterns over ceramic tiles and other finishing products such as UV resistant and stain resistant coatings have helped in the better maintenance of the commercial flooring products.

Continuous and timely supply of raw materials used for manufacturing process is crucial for success of market players, as a result of which switching suppliers may negatively impact the financial and operating results of industry participants.

Raw material costs have had a significant impact on the commercial flooring industry. Along with the issue of transportation cost, manufacturers have to deal with increasing fossil fuels prices as a result of which their margins have shrunk to a large extent. Carpet and resilient flooring are largely derived from fossil fuels. However, the price rise of fossil fuels has considerably driven technological developments to enhance efficiency.

 Further key findings from the study include:

  • The resilient category is poised for high growth over the next six years.
  • Carpets’ penetration into the commercial flooring sector is higher than that in the residential sector.
  • Commercial offices accounted for a substantial market share in 2013, with significant demand originating from both, owner-occupied spaces and tenant improvement. Healthcare is expected to exhibit high growth potential throughout the forecast period with high demand anticipated from medical office buildings, acute care, and senior living categories. Considerable remodeling activity, particularly in higher-end retail stores is expected to play a pivotal role in high commercial flooring demand from the retail sector.
  • Steady demand from education and healthcare sectors supplementing increasing demand from the corporate section has driven the North American commercial flooring market.
  • Key commercial flooring market players are constantly evolving and innovating in a bid to maintain competitiveness.

To contact Grand View for the full research report: Click here

For more information about commercial flooring and installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com

Welcome to Darwin Fisher’s New Website

 

logo

We have a new logo, colours and tagline. In fact, we have completely rebranded. Although our look may be different, what hasn’t changed is who we are and what we do. Darwin Fisher was founded over 13 years ago. We are a company whose key team members have over 40 years of experience in the commercial flooring industry. As you explore the site you will see the depth and scope of projects we have executed and the process that we apply to every job we produce.

We love what we do and our goal is to make sure that each of our clients are happy with not only our expertise and workmanship, but in the superior service we provide. You will also notice that we specialize in all types of surfaces and are adept at restoring corporate spaces old and new. Our strength comes from our ability to tackle any project, big or small, and guide our clients through the entire lifecycle, while anticipating their needs and exact requirements.

We like to work as a collaborative team that is hands on. Our staff is always on-site and we make sure all parties that work with us are included in every step of the task at hand. Over the years, whatever the scale of the project, our clients have come to count on us to deliver on time and within budget – and we do.

To sum up what you will see on this website, we are a business that is passionate about our products, solutions and people. Our satisfaction is truly based on the happiness of our clients. As our tagline says, “We’re with you every step”….and we are! Enjoy the rest of our new website and please contact us if you have any questions or need more information.

Doug McDonald, President, Darwin Fisher