Choosing the Right Commercial Flooring System: A Comprehensive Guide for Architects and Contractors
Choosing the Right Commercial Flooring System: A Comprehensive Guide for Architects and Contractors
When it comes to specifying a flooring system for a commercial environment, architects and contractors must weigh out a wide range of factors. From footfall and vehicle traffic to hygiene requirements and regulatory compliance, flooring plays a pivotal role in both the functionality and design of a space, so it is vital that the right method is chosen.
This guide provides a straightforward breakdown of the key considerations for selecting the best flooring system and showcases Flowcrete’s versatile range of screeds, resins, and decorative systems that deliver high-performance solutions across various commercial applications.
Traffic Levels
The type and volume of traffic a floor will endure is one of the first things to consider:
Foot Traffic
Retail, education, healthcare, and hospitality spaces all experience different footfall levels. Flowcrete’s decorative resin systems are designed to remain visually appealing under constant wear.
Vehicle Traffic – In spaces like car parks or loading bays, heavy vehicles and repeated movement demand high-compression strength systems such as Deckshield ID which also offers anti-slip, chemical, and frost resistance.
Construction Phase Considerations –
One of the considerations is the traffic flooring will receive in the construction phase. space experience traffic from glazing units, trolleys, or equipment during the build? Choose screeds and resins that are robust enough to withstand this phase too .
Durability & Long-Term Performance
Different environments demand different flooring lifespans:
- Temporary Installations – Cost-effective screed systems may be ideal for pop-up or temporary facilities.
- Permanent Spaces – Long-term durability and colour stability are crucial. Flowcrete’s multi-coloured systems help hide dirt, scuffs and wear, maintaining aesthetics for over a decade.
Aesthetic Preferences
Design shouldn't come second to performance. Flowcrete offers:
Bespoke Colours – Match brand identities or colour-code areas. A good example of this is the Mondeco Naturale which is available in bespoke design.
Custom Finishes – Achieve anything from sleek minimalist resin to vibrant, decorative flakes or quartz systems. Our Flowcrete range offers a range of this.
Integrated Features – Stairs, skirting, and coving can be colour-matched and built into the flooring system for a finish that matches.
Compliance with Regulations
Today’s buildings must meet high standards for health, safety, and accessibility. At Flowcrete, we have a range of products that meet all the necessary health and safety requirements.
Slip Resistance – It is essential in workplaces, kitchens, washdown zones, and entryways. For exsmple some systems allow for optimal traction without sacrificing looks.
Hygiene Standards – Impervious, easy-to-clean, and antimicrobial floors such as Flowfresh MF are perfect for food prep areas, healthcare settings, and washroom facilities.
Accessibility & Design Regulations – Consider LRV (light reflectance value) to ensure safe, navigable spaces for all users, including wheelchair users, in compliance with the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations.
Downtime & Installation Practicalities
In fast-paced environments, downtime is a luxury:
Fast-Cure Systems – For projects with limited shutdown windows, Flowcrete offers fast-curing technologies that drastically reduce installation time.
Substrate Suitability – Whether concrete, timber, or tiles, Flowcrete has a system tailored for the substrate to avoid costly failures or delamination.
Movement joints can be integrated into the system design, ensuring long-term performance even in large or heavily used spaces.
Tailored Solutions for Specialist Areas
Summary: Fit for Purpose, Built to Last
Choosing the right flooring system doesn’t need to be complicated. By aligning performance requirements with design goals and what the flooring is required for, Flowcrete can support architects and contractors in delivering safe, stylish, and long-lasting commercial spaces.
Explore our full range of screeds, resin finishes, and decorative systems today to find the right solution for your next project.
