Which Type of Commercial Flooring is Most Eco-Friendly?

When refitting or redesigning an office space in Sussex, finding the right flooring material is crucial. Not only is there the issue of finding one that suits the space visually and functionally, but nowadays environmental impact factors are high on the priority list of many Sussex business owners. 

Luckily, some of the most popular types of office flooring offer durability and cost-effectiveness for many business owners, with many options providing a healthy environmental footprint. Let’s look at some of the most sought-after flooring options, to help you decide which one is right for your next commercial renovation.

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVTs) - Versatile and Low-Maintenance

LVTs are combinations of individual tiles glued down to a prepared substrate to make a larger, consistent pattern. Materials like wood, stone, and resin are usually replicated and fused into high-quality vinyl, and they’re fully recyclable too.

These tiles are hard-wearing and can withstand heavy foot traffic with minimal maintenance. They’re also waterproof, making them suitable for a broad range of commercial spaces and offering excellent acoustic performance and noise resistance.

Considerations:

• Fitting LVTs can take a few days compared to fitting carpets, given that there’s more preparation and individual manufacturing needed. Be aware that LVT manufacturing leads to the production of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), whereas other materials may produce lower levels.

Commercial Grade Carpeting - Soft Underfoot and Hard-Wearing

Office carpets have always been popular when retrofitting a space. Made of dense, tightly packed fibres like nylon, polypropylene, and wool, among others, carpets make a durable, cushioned, and thermally insulating material. 

Provided the underlay is of a sufficiently high standard, a carpet can be a tremendously aesthetic and practical addition to a new office. Luckily, many Sussex-based carpet companies like those at Greg Stone Flooring offer environmentally beneficial schemes in which old carpet offcuts and ends of rolls are reused and able to be installed. They also offer a free underlay for rooms taking advantage of carpet remnants.

Considerations:

• Carpets require a more intensive, regular cleaning regime than hard floors or LVTs, otherwise allergens and dust can accumulate. Cheaper, lower-quality carpets are more prone to staining and flattening, not to mention lingering smells. 

Hybrid Flooring - Recyclable and Mould-Resistant

Hybrid flooring is a reusable, recyclable material that combines the comfort of carpet with the easy maintenance of hard surfacing. Hybrid floors are waterproof, anti-slip, UV-protective, low maintenance, highly resistant to scratches, impact and fire, as well as being based on zero-formaldehyde MDF.

This innovative flooring style offers excellent versatility for business owners looking to create diverse commercial spaces tailored for specific functions. For example, carpeting for desk spaces and meeting rooms while LVTs or hybrid options in breakout areas. 

Making the Sustainable Choice for Your Business

When choosing new flooring, consider durability, acoustic performance, price, sustainability credentials, ease of cleaning and whether it suits your usage needs. Consult local expert flooring suppliers in Sussex to discuss the best option for your specific needs.