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.
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.
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.
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.
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