trends Archives - Darwin Fisher

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: budgeting, carpet tile, construction, engineered hardwood, flooring applications, flooringapplications, hardwood, installation, interiordesign, laminate, LVT, newbuild, office interior design, porcelain tile, retrofit, technology, trends, VCT

Luxury Composite Deck Tiles: Benefits and Application

August 15, 2023

LCDT Benefits: A Case Study

You may have heard that luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is one of the fastest growing segments in the flooring industry, but have you heard about luxury composite deck tiles or LCDT?

LCDT condominium balcony installation

Our commercial solutions extend well beyond simple flooring. Many of our projects have required design that includes antique brick, hardwood, ceramic and porcelain feature walls, marble entrance ways, stone waterfalls in dental offices and even a putting green.

In over 19 years of business, we’ve tackled a multitude challenges aimed at satisfying requirements that go well beyond flooring.

LCDT condominium balcony installation

Sourcing New Solutions

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring’s most recent challenge was looking for a cost-effective solution for our partner Ingenuity. Ingenuity is a design, build & general contracting construction firm that for over 16 years has delivered craft, productivity, detail, and creativity every square foot.

We were asked to deliver an outdoor solution for a condominium balcony project in St. Catharines, ON. This solution would require style in addition to durability in terms of being able to withstand the different seasons and weather patterns. The project parameters required installation over 6 floors of this low-rise condominium.

Darwin Fisher was able to source an innovative solution called luxury composite deck tiles (LCDT).

LCDT condominium balcony installation

Benefits of Luxury Composite Deck Tiles

LCDT is an interlocking square tile solution that provides endless possibilities for even the most severe outdoor requirements.

This solution is ideal for outdoor application for the following reasons:

Available in a variety of colours
Requires no painting
Requires no scouring
Water resistant
Humidity resistant
Mould resistant

Another benefit of this material is that there is an extreme amount of flexibility with application technology so that it can be installed on top of a variety of uneven surfaces. This includes outdoor patios, balconies, and concrete walkways.

LCDT benefits

LCDT Installation Made Simple

This application requires that every tile is turned 90 degrees before installing, creating the tiled look seen in the picture. No preparation is required for this durable and stylish finish for outdoor application.

The tiles also offer the authentic look of wood decking with the cost-effective, high-performance benefits of composite which makes it maintenance-free. The tiles are simply clicked into place and allow for removal at a later period if required, maximizing investment, while transforming living space.

LCDT: A Long-term Maintenance Free Solution

Furthermore, LCDT benefits include a strong wear layer and robust connecting components, in addition to a commercial lifetime 15-year warranty.

LVDT Installation Made SimpleThis application requires that every tile is turned 90 degrees before installing creates the perpendicular look seen in the picture. No preparation is required for this durable and stylish finish for outdoor application. The tiles also offer the authentic look of wood decking and the cost-effective, high-performance benefits of composite, while being easy to install and maintenance-free. The tiles are simply clicked into place and allow for removal at a later period if required, maximizing investment, while transforming living space.

LCDT benefits

Project Management on Site

Once the project began and we had the right solution in place, we continually made sure our project managers were on site to offer proactive solutions should any problems arise.

The project was a success due to the transparent co-ordination of activities, while meeting schedules and budget demands.

As you can see from the finished install pictures, this material and design offers the finishing and elevating touch to what would be a simple concrete balcony.

For more information about LCDT please click here.

For more information about our project partner, please see Ingenuity.

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

Filed Under: News Tagged With: application technology, condo development, durability, facilitiesmanagement, flooringapplications, installation, investment, luxury composite deck tiles, maintenance, outdoor solutions, trends

Acoustics and Commercial Flooring – The Difference is Sound

May 1, 2023

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.

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.

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.
Building Layout – If a building includes a particularly noise sensitive space, opposite where more noisy areas need to be isolated.
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.
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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: acoustics, application technology, employeeexperience, flooringapplications, interiordesign, on-site assessment, product knowledge, project management, research, technology, trends

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: bold colours, carbon footprint, carpet tile, employee retention, employeeexperience, facilitiesmanagement, flooringapplications, LEED, LVT, porcelain tile, recycle, reduce, reuse, technology trends, trends, vintage, WELL Building Standard

Sustainability and Well Buildings

November 2, 2022

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.

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 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

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, Comfort, Mind and Innovation.

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.

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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: Certification, employeeexperience, facilitiesmanagement, Green Buildings, LEED, trends, WELL Building Standard

2022 Dental Office Trends: Porcelain Tile Continues to Gain Traction

October 5, 2022

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.

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.

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.

Porcelain tile is harder and denser than ceramic products and are also highly resistant to damage such as stains, scratches, and chips.
This tile is also frost and moisture proof.
As porcelain absorbs very little water, it is much easier to clean and disinfect. If stronger chemicals are required, it can withstand harsher solvents.
The finish is protected and requires no polishing, sealing, or waxing and can been cleaned with a damp cloth.
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.
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 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.

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 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 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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: customer service, dental office, flooringapplications, healthcare, installation, LVT, porcelain tile, project management, technology, trends

Top Ways to Care for Your Luxury Vinyl Tile After Installation

August 3, 2022

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.

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.”

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.

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.

Top 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.

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.

Top 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.

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.

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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: dental offices, durability, facilitiesmanagement, flooring installation, flooringapplications, healthcare, investment, LVT, maintenance, on-site assessment, product knowledge, technology, trends

Commercial Flooring and the Pandemic: 4 Top Trends

May 2, 2022

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:

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.

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.

Market growth in the resilient segment.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: Covid-19, flooringapplications, installation, market, pandemic impact, research, supply chain management, trends

Global Resilient Flooring Market Report Reveals LVT in Top Spot

April 5, 2022

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.

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.

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

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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: flooringapplications, installation, LVT, market, research, technology, trends, VCT

5 Reasons Why LVT Popularity Continues to Grow: Research

August 4, 2021

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.

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.

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:

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:

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

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.

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.

Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring LVT IMAX installation

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.

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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: acoustics, budgeting, Covid-19, dental offices, durability, employeeexperience, facilitiesmanagement, flooringapplications, healthcare, installation, LVT, market, research, technology, trends

Global Flooring Market Expected to Grow From 2021 – 2028

March 5, 2021

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.

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.

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.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: flooringapplications, global market, interiordesign, research, technology, trends

Dental Offices 2020: LVT Continues To Be Top Installation Choice

December 2, 2020

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 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.

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

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

Filed Under: News Tagged With: dental offices, dentists, flooringapplications, healthcare, interiordesign, LVT, moisture, safety, trends

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

March 4, 2020

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.

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.

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

Filed Under: News Tagged With: flooringapplications, market, research, technology, trends

Residential Meets Commercial Office Flooring Design

February 6, 2020

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.

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.

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.

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

Filed Under: News Tagged With: collaboration, employeeexperience, flooringapplications, installation, interiordesign, residentialdesign, trends

Healthcare Flooring Trends: Emerging Products and the Patient Experience

December 4, 2019

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Filed Under: Healthcare, News Tagged With: facilitiesmanagement, healthcare, market, news, patientexperience, technology, trends

Pros and Cons of Commercial Flooring by Type:

1. Pros and Cons: Carpet Tile

Pros

Cons

2. Pros and Cons: Porcelain Tile

Cons

3. Pros and Cons: Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

Pros

Cons

4. Pros and Cons: Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT)

Pros

Cons

5. Pros and Cons: Engineered Hardwood

Pros

Cons

6. Pros and Cons: Laminate Wood

Pros

Cons

Pros and Cons of Commercial Flooring Summary

Sourcing New Solutions

Benefits of Luxury Composite Deck Tiles

LCDT Installation Made Simple

LCDT: A Long-term Maintenance Free Solution

Project Management on Site

Acoustics and Commercial Flooring Materials – The Difference is Sound

Choosing the Correct Flooring Solution for Your Environment

There are 3 Ways of Measuring Sound

Acoustics and Commercial Flooring By Industry Vertical

Healthcare Acoustics and Commercial Flooring

Education Acoustics and Commercial Flooring

Corporate Office Acoustics and Commercial Flooring

Acoustics and Commercial Flooring – Understanding Your Requirements

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

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

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

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

Sustainability: A Brief History Starting with Buildings

The Benefits of Sustainability: LEED Certification

Sustainability: The Next Phase Focuses on People

Porcelain Tile and Ceramic – What is the difference?

Dental Office Porcelain Tile: Six Benefits that Increase Demand

Dental Office Porcelain Tile Care and Maintenance

Dental Office Porcelain Tile Popular but LVT is Still in Demand

Why is LVT Popular for both Designers and Facility Managers?

Top LVT Care and Cleaning Tips

Caring for LVT – Maintenance Schedules

Top LVT Care and Cleaning Tips – LVT Routine Maintenance

Top LVT Care and Cleaning Tips – Chemical Use

Top LVT Care and Cleaning Tips – What to Avoid

Supply Chain Management Impacting Flooring Products and Building Materials

Growth in the Resilient Segment

Increased Disinfection + Cleaning

Increased Demand for Sustainable Solutions

Key Factors Driving the Resilient Market

The Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Market

Product Insights Related to the Global Resilient Flooring Market

Application Insights Related to the Resilient Flooring Market

Regional Insights Related to the Resilient Flooring Market

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

Global Resilient Flooring Market Report Scope

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

5 Reasons for the rise of LVT popularity:

The Way It’s Made

Affordability by Design

Low Maintenance

Return on Investment: Durability

Acoustically Sound

Many Finishes and Manufacturers

Report Insights

Product Insights

Application Insights

Regional Insights

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Dental Office Trends: The Move Away from Ceramic

Dental Office Trends: LVT Becoming a Long-Term Solution

GrandView Product Insights

Commercial Flooring Market Application Insights

Key Commercial Flooring Market Players

Flooring Designs: More Choices Through Technological Advances

Increased Employee Productivity