Pros and Cons of Commercial Flooring – Top 6 Types

November 1, 2023

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), porcelain tile, vinyl composite tile (VCT), engineered hardwood and laminate wood. In this article we will be examining the pros and cons of these six commercial flooring types.

Pros and Cons of Commercial Flooring by Type:

1. Pros and Cons: 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 technologically progressed.

2. Pros and Cons: Porcelain Tile 

This past year, we’ve seen a big increase in porcelain tile installation in dental offices. Porcelain tile 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

Darwin Fisher dental office porcelain tile installation

 Cons

Porcelain tile is more expensive and is harder surface which may not be the most comfortable for offices that require employees to stand for long periods of time. Also, 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.

3. Pros and Cons: 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. This is why it is important that the thickness be chosen in conjunction with the application requirements or problems can surface in terms of floor traffic and long-term wear.

 

4. Pros and Cons: 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.

Vinyl Composite Tile

Photo credit Armstrong Flooring vinyl composite tile

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. VCT offers good value, but it can lack the benefits carpet tiles are able to provide – including reduced ambient noise, improved underfoot comfort, lower risk of slips and falls.

5. Pros and Cons: 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.

6. Pros and Cons: 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. 

 

 

 

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Logo Matting and Your Building’s Brand

October 2, 2023

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

It’s as easy as placing your logo here.

“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 installation

Logo matting and brand recognition

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:

How this hazard 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 are injured every day because of a fall – that’s one 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 and carpet

Logo matting is a great way to share your company brand

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 and how it affects your building environment

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

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Project Management: 6 Critical Steps for Successful Installation

July 5, 2023

In commercial flooring,  project management depends on 6 steps for successful installation.

So much of our work goes unseen as revealed by the pictures below.

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.

carpet tile installation

Darwin Fisher project management and carpet removal and 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

Darwin Fisher in progress dental office flooring installation

  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.

Project Management

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.

project planning and flooring

Darwin Fisher sub floor prep for an LVT installation

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. 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.

Pictured below is our Fuzion Flooring LVT product installation for Procon Construction.

Project Management

Darwin Fisher final LVT installation finishing details

  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

 

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3 Proven Strategies for Maximizing Your Carpet Investment

June 5, 2023

Maintenance is an important consideration if you want to maximize your carpet tile investment, once the right product for your new build or retrofit has been installed.

In this article, we will examine how to care for and maintain your carpet tile over its projected lifespan.

carpet maintenance and care

Carpet tile maintenance extends your long-term investment.

A good rule of thumb is to budget an extra 10-15% stock at time of purchase so that if a specific area becomes damaged or worn, individual tiles can simply be swapped out. This is especially apparent in heavy traffic zones like reception and under desk swivel chairs. Beyond regular wear and tear a maintenance program will also preserve appearance.

The Importance of Maintenance and Cleaning Programs

On an annual basis, there are three long-term maintenance strategies to protect your carpet, image and guarantee your overall investment:

1. If you maintain your carpets as per manufacturer guidelines, your 10-year appearance warranty will be met if any issues arise to the wear/appearance

2. The actual quality of the carpet appearance will last longer extending the life of your investment

3. A maintenance plan protects the image of your company on a monthly basis, rather than a once a year cleaning. Visible soiling and staining are reflected for the remaining 11 months and can cause damage

For general maintenance, modular systems can be easily cleaned by vacuuming. The backing commonly found on carpet tile allows for ease in spill and soiling removal. Staining is confined to the fibre rather than absorbent backing common in broadloom carpet. However, these simple steps may not be enough.

Toronto Carpet tile installation

Darwin Fisher carpet tile installation: IMAX Headquarters

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

Staff maintain over 700 corporate offices in Southern Ontario, cleaning in excess of 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.

All employees at Interior Care are certified. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) is an established certification body for the textile cleaning industry. Its standards are endorsed and a requirement of carpet manufacturers worldwide.

carpet maintenance and care

Darwin Fisher carpet tile installation: IMAX Headquarters

Interior Care service technicians are required to maintain their certification status by attending three annual, two-day IICRC instructed in-class programs . Each individual is required to maintain a passing grade of 80% as part of their ongoing training.

“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.”

Scheduled Maintenance Benefits

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 office.

Commercial Flooring Cleaning and Maintenance Toronto

Darwin Fisher carpet installation: Entertainment One

This is reliant on a number of 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 or a training centre)
  • The actual location of the carpet that requires cleaning (entrance as opposed to second floor)

In addition to regular carpet care, seasonal weather patterns can require front entrance matting systems.

carpet tile installation contractors

Entrances, lobbies and heavy foot traffic areas require the most care.

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.

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5 Critical Tips for Your Next Carpet Tile Installation

May 24, 2023

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.

carpet tile maintenance Toronto

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.

Commercial carpet tile Toronto

Darwin Fisher IMAX carpet tile installation

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

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2023 Top 5 Office Design Trends – From Floor to Ceiling

December 7, 2022

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.

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

February 8, 2021

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.

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