Consider the intended use before you choose a floor covering for your commercial space. 
Different environments place different demands upon the flooring. In the commercial world, durability and cost are frequently driving factors. Style and design, however, play an important, but smaller, role. 
Let’s look at the flooring options for offices, shops and work areas. 
Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing flooring 
You should consider your clientele when flooring your office space 
When choosing the flooring for your office space, a lot depends on who you invite. Are you hosting high-profile clients? Is your traffic more industrial? 

• Combine hard and soft surfaces such as tile with carpet inlays or wood flooring with rugs to create the penthouse suite. For a more sophisticated decor, both create visual interest and texture. You don’t have to be put off the idea of real wood floors because of their high price. There are other options, such as wood-look vinyl flooring. You can get the same look and feel as timber flooring, but it is also affordable and waterproof. 
• Hardwearing commercial carpet with a short nap is an excellent choice if your office is professional, such as a waiting room for a doctor or a showroom. It is sound-absorbing, durable, and available in many colors and patterns to create the perfect tone. 

• You should consider vinyl flooring for industrial spaces and polished concrete as these types of floor coverings can withstand high traffic. You can make your place feel more comfortable by using softer flooring options like carpet tiles and broadloom carpet in hallways, break rooms, and offices. 

Retail Flooring should be designed to work hard 
Your flooring requirements may be reflected in the goods and services that you sell. For high-traffic stores, wear. If you have a boutique, ensure style is a factor. Smaller shops can sell anything. 

• Vinyl roll flooring, tiles or planks in large commercial or industrial shops are an excellent option. They are waterproof, durable, and easy to clean. 
• Elegant wood floors or plush carpeting are great options for setting the tone in a boutique environment. 

• Most floors work well in smaller shops catering to a smaller clientele. In smaller spaces, sound can make a difference in the ambience. You can choose carpeting to keep your space feeling intimate and quiet, or a hard surface to make it feel bigger. 

The Pros and Cons of Common Commercial Grade Flooring Types 
1. Carpet tiles 
Because of their versatility and affordability, carpet tiles are becoming more popular in office fit-outs. Carpet tiles, as the name implies, are pre-cut pieces made of carpet that can be installed directly onto the floor like porcelain tiles. 
Commercial carpet tiles have the greatest benefit: the underlay is already included, so there is no need to purchase a separate pad. This reduces costs and labor, as well as allows you to quickly track your work schedule. 
Carpet tiles are very versatile and easy to maintain. Damaged tiles can be easily removed and replaced or cleaned up quickly. Replacement tiles, unlike broadloom carpets, can be stored easily and take up very little space. 
Carpet tiles are a cost-effective alternative to broadloom carpets. They offer many design options, including checkered patterns and textured designs. You can create your own style with its tiled format. 
Carpet tiles have two major drawbacks: their limited design possibilities and high cost. Although tiles offer many design possibilities that broadloom cannot, they may not be suitable for certain spaces. You can use larger patterns and mosaics in large offices or conference rooms. 
PROS 

• It is quick and simple to install. Carpet tiles can be pre-cut to the size you need with an integrated underlay. This makes them much easier to install. 

• Customizable designs. You have unlimited design options and the ability to create your own patterns. You can lay tiles in a standard or checkered format. Or you can experiment until you find the right design for your space. 
• It can be easily repaired. You can quickly replace any stained or damaged parts that are beyond repair without affecting the rest of the flooring. 

CONS 

• Broadloom is more expensive than standard broadloom. Installing pre-cut pieces that have a built-in underlay will cost more. 
• Visible seams. The seams are visible because tiles are placed directly next to each other, rather than being chemically bonded. This is not necessarily a problem if you want a checkered or texture pattern. 

• Not as soft underfoot The cushioning provided by built-in underlays is not as good as that of the broadloom carpet’s separate padding. 

2. Broadloom Carpet 
Broadloom carpet, a traditional type of commercial flooring, is more popular in larger corporate spaces. Its greatest advantage is its ability to quickly and easily cover large spaces with one intricate design, wall-to-wall. 
It is installed on top of a separate underlay between the floor slabs and the carpet. This makes it more comfortable underfoot. 
Although the design options aren’t as varied as those of carpet tiles, broadlooms are still the most successful. You can choose from large patterns, colors and even mosaics. The large pieces come rolled up ready to cut for installation. 
These carpets can be used in spaces that are too large for traditional carpet tiles. Unfortunately, this power also comes with one of the biggest downfalls of broadloom carpet: replacement/repair. 
To fix an area that has been irreversibly damaged by mold, moisture or mildew, it must be taken out and replaced. 
PROS 

• Endless design possibilities. Modern broadloom patterns and designs that inspire and innovate corporate spaces are available. 
• Carpet tiles have a harder underfoot. Broadloom carpet offers more cushioning beneath the foot thanks to the addition of padding (also known as the underlay). 

• Carpet tiles are more expensive than carpet tiles. Broadloom carpet is typically cheaper per square foot than carpet tile, though this can vary depending on how the office space is designed. 
• It is seamless. Broadloom is a 12-foot roll that can be installed wall to wall. Broadloom seams that meet are sealed with a chemical so they appear as one piece. 

CONS 

• It can be more wasteful. Broadloom carpets are cut to the dimensions of a room. This can lead to more waste in the installation process, especially the underlay. 
• Sometimes, can be more costly. Sometimes, the cost of unused or unnecessary materials can offset savings. 

• It takes longer to install. It can take longer to install a carpet underlay and the carpet layer needs to be cut to fit the space. 
• It is difficult to replace and repair. Unlike carpet tiles that can be easily removed and replaced if they are damaged beyond repair, carpet tiles may require the removal of the entire carpet, including the underlay. 

3. Concrete 
Concrete in offices is an option, but it’s not the most common type of commercial flooring. It depends on the work being done. 
Concrete flooring is a sophisticated and modern way to add industrialism to your office space. 
Concrete flooring can be made to look luxurious with modern concrete finishing techniques. 
Prices vary depending on how large the space is and what finish is used. It can be used in all types of applications including offices, warehouses and kitchens as well as schools and retail stores. 
Concrete flooring, as you might imagine, is very durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic. It is also one of the easiest flooring types to clean. 
It is important to maintain your equipment regularly. A simple vacuum or dust mop will remove any dirt and dust particles. Then, a neutral pH detergent will be applied for more stubborn stains and grease. 
Concrete flooring should be waxed bi-monthly to prevent stains and spills from getting under the surface. 
PROS 

• It requires little maintenance. It is one of the easiest floor types to maintain. Regular vacuuming and dusting are recommended. 
• Concrete is extremely durable. Concrete is very durable. 
• Longevity. Concrete flooring can last for a lifetime if it is maintained and resealed every 2-5 years. 
• Unique design possibilities. Modern technology allows for many different finishes to create unique products. 

CONS 

• Hard underfoot. Concrete flooring is by nature the most difficult of all floors. Concrete flooring is also harder to forgive when it comes down to accidents. 
• Water damage is possible IF. Concrete can be damaged by water if it is not properly sealed. 
• Cracking. No matter how professional the concrete flooring installation is, cracking can happen. Weathering can cause even the strongest flooring to crack due to temperature changes, moisture changes and settling. 

4. Natural Hardwood Flooring 
Natural hardwood flooring is undoubtedly the most beautiful type of flooring. It continues to be a stunning choice for office spaces. 
Natural hardwood flooring has a unique look that is distinctively crafted from a particular species of wood. It continues to offer a timeless and classic look. 
Hardwood flooring, which is a natural material, will always suffer the most despite having a longer life span. It can be refinished to look new for future generations, but it is cursed with a decision-making factor. 
Wood is porous, making it vulnerable to climate and water damage. It is not recommended for rooms like the bathroom, laundry, or kitchen where moisture and spills are common. 
It can be sealed with polyurethane, which will protect against spills. However, it must be removed and reapplied frequently. Hardwood floors are not recommended for high traffic areas or commercial spaces. 
Hardwood flooring can withstand heavy objects, but that’s not to be taken lightly. It is a difficult choice because of its porous nature and constant need for protection. 
The look of luxury vinyl hardwood flooring is unparalleled. Only a trained eye can tell the difference. This unique finish is, however, 2-3 times more costly. 
It is important to consider the availability of wood species as well as the fact that it is not possible to customize the design. This can make replacing damaged slats a nightmare. Hardwood is better suited for commercial spaces, residential spaces, and spaces that have low foot traffic. 
PROS 

• It is visually timeless. Natural hardwood flooring is visually timeless and one of the most beautiful floor types. 

• It is extremely durable. Hardwood is more durable than other flooring types and is, therefore, harder in nature. 
• It is easy to maintain and clean. Regular cleaning and maintenance include vacuuming and sweeping. 
• Limitless design. Hardwood flooring offers endless design options, from traditional and modern designs to wood species to the possibility of a sealant. 

CONS 

• Costly. Hardwood flooring is the most expensive type of floor. 

• Must be resealed. Hardwood should be refinished at least twice per year, depending on how badly damaged (scratches and other blemishes), and foot traffic. 
• Hard underfoot. Hardwood flooring is more forgiving than concrete, but it’s harder than vinyl. 
• Acoustics. Acoustics does not help with space acoustics or sound insulation. This can be overcome with rugs and other sound absorbers. 

5. Laminate 
Laminate is a popular choice for flooring in Australia, but does it work well at work? 
Laminate flooring is an economical flooring option that is durable and low-maintenance. It can be cleaned with a mop, sweep, or vacuum. 
It is also resistant to water, spills, and stains. This makes it ideal for high-traffic offices, kitchens as well as waiting rooms in hospitals, schools, and corridors. 
Laminate flooring is very popular because of the UV resistance technology in the wear layer. It is resistant to fading, which is particularly useful for areas that are exposed to the sun. 
Laminate can be made to look like expensive floors by using a high-definition printer. You can customize the style, design and texture of the laminate. 
Laminate flooring is designed to be easy to install using a tongue-and-groove locking system. 
PROS 

• Cheaper alternative. This is a cheaper alternative to achieving a tiled, stone, or hardwood floor finish. 
• Very durable. It is stain, stain, dent, and fade resistant. 
• It is easy to install. Easy installation of floating floors with a tongue-and-groove locking system. 
• Softer underfoot. Laminate can be more comfortable underfoot than other types of flooring. 

• Low maintenance. Regular maintenance and cleaning include sweeping and vacuuming with the occasional spot clean. 

CONS 

• Inconvenient. Laminate cannot be refinished like hardwood and must be removed and replaced. 
• Water damage is possible. Water can seep through the seams, causing swelling. They will need to be replaced. 
• Repetitive design. Because of the repetitive nature and placement of the patterns, there is a greater chance of two identical boards being placed next each other if they are not properly installed. 

• Acoustics. Acoustics does not help with space acoustics or sound insulation. This can be overcome with rugs and other sound absorbers. 

6. Vinyl Sheet 
Vinyl flooring is unmatched in terms of authenticity and visual appeal. 
Vinyl flooring & Hybrid Planks  are very popular choices for commercial and residential spaces. It can be printed to resemble a variety of materials including ceramic tiles, natural hardwood and natural stone. 
Vinyl sheets are usually installed using one or two large sheets that have a photograph of the pattern below them. 
Sheet vinyl can be printed without grout lines because of its production process. This creates a seamless and authentic look, which is not possible with luxury vinyl tiles or planks. It can be bulky so you only have one style per sheet. 
Sheet vinyl is free from seams and provides better protection against moisture entering the subfloor and penetrating the surface. Commercial sheet vinyl is the best choice for offices, healthcare centers, daycare centers, restaurants, schools, or hospitality areas where there is high foot traffic and moisture. 
Vinyl sheets can be damaged beyond repair and cannot be replaced like LVT/LVP. Either replace the entire floor or cut the damaged area and fill the gaps with a new one. 
These options are expensive and can lead to water getting through the seams. It is possible to duplicate the original pattern. 
Vinyl sheet is very durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic. It is also highly resistant to moisture. 
PROS 

• Water-resistant. Sheet vinyl is made with waterproof materials and a seamless finish. It is ideal for areas where there is a lot of water. 
• Comfortable. Sheet vinyl is soft underfoot and warm to the touch. It’s much easier to use for extended periods of time. 
• Longevity. A vinyl sheet that is well maintained can last for up to 10 to 20 years. 
• Affordable Sheet vinyl, which is mass-produced in large quantities, can be used to create a high-end finish at a reasonable price. 

• It is easy to maintain. It can be easily cleaned by a sweep, vacuum, or mop. 
• Endless design possibilities. Modern printing technology allows you to achieve more authentic and natural colors, clarity, textures, and patterns. 
• It is easy to install. For a wall to wall installation, measure the space. We recommend that DIYers avoid doing it yourself and hire a professional to do the job. This requires precise measurements and cutting. 

CONS 

• It is difficult to repair. Sheet vinyl that has been severely damaged by water, dirt, gouges, scratches, or other factors is not possible to repair. 

• Discoloration. Vinyl of low quality can yellow over time. Direct sunlight can also cause yellowing. Vinyl of high quality with a UV inhibitor can help prevent sun damage and discoloration. 

It is a good idea to ask as many questions as you can to your sales rep when purchasing commercial flooring. This will ensure that you get exactly what you need.