Key Considerations in Choosing Flooring for Your Facility
Within most facilities, there are a number of standard features and components that while seemingly insignificant, required a great deal of forethought and consideration in order to choose the model or material best-suited for the work environment. Not the least of these features is flooring.
Within most facilities, there are a number of standard features and components that while seemingly insignificant, required a great deal of forethought and consideration in order to choose the model or material best-suited for the work environment. Not the least of these features is flooring.
From safety to durability, there are a number of important factors that facility managers must consider when deciding what flooring material to install. In this post, we’ll explore some of the key considerations when choosing flooring for your facility.
Purpose
While it may seem obvious, a surprising number of companies overlook the most simple and important consideration in selecting flooring – the purpose and application of the flooring. Simply put, how and where will the flooring be used? In settings ranging from light industrial to heavy manufacturing – as well as any other space prone to impact, harsh chemicals and debris – using a material that is not easily scratched or damaged is important.
Health and safety are also key concerns. For example, installing flooring that is easily warped or becomes dangerously slick when substances are spilled on it may represent a safety hazard for employees walking and working on the surface. Healthcare facilities require flooring materials that are hypo-allergenic and easy to clean thoroughly in order to maintain a sterile environment. In businesses where employees are expected to stand for extended periods of time, comfort and ergonomic design may also be important considerations.
Appearance
Aesthetics and the appearance of the flooring are important factors for many companies. Whether it’s serving to make a positive first impression upon entering a facility, building on a brand’s color scheme or design, or conveying cleanliness in a healthcare facility, the appearance of flooring can be vitally important.
Installation time
When it comes to the amount of time and effort required in the installation process, not all flooring is created equal. It is important to evaluate how much time will be required to install the flooring you’re considering, as well as the cost before fully committing to a particular option. Floor installation is one area in which taking shortcuts will never end well.
For example, some flooring solutions feature a pre-applied adhesive, which is easier to install than messy, wet adhesive options. Self-adhesive and/or floating flooring products can be used immediately following installation, making them great options for facilities that cannot afford downtime, such as those that operate 24/7.
Maintenance
Like installation, regular and ongoing maintenance is a key factor that facilities should consider carefully before choosing a flooring option. Facilities should select a product for which the maintenance routine is both practical and cost-effective.
Long-term maintenance is also an important factor. Flooring that must be re-finished, re-surfaced or replaced can represent significant costs over the life of the product.
Longevity
Flooring endures a great deal of wear, especially in facilities where foot traffic and overall use is exponentially greater than most standard flooring applications. As previously mentioned, replacing flooring can be both a costly and time-intensive undertaking, so naturally you should look for a solution that offers longevity and allows you to stretch your dollar before replacing the flooring again.
When searching for a durable flooring material, there are two key attributes to look for:
- Dimensional Stability - Dimensionally-stable flooring eliminates the risk of shrinkage or expansion and does not require welding.
- Flooring that does not require finishing, waxing or stripping - These products typically last longer than their higher-maintenance counterparts.
Summary
A facility’s floor plays a critical role in operations, as well as the health and comfort of employees. While flooring decisions should not be taken lightly, it does not have to be difficult, either. Referencing these key considerations will help you make a well-informed decision that takes into account cost, durability, function and maintenance.
