How to Choose Hardwood Flooring for Commercial Spaces

Hardwood flooring is the top option for commercial spaces due to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and easy maintenance. It adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to any room, making it ideal for office buildings, retail stores, and restaurants. But, choosing the right hardwood flooring for a commercial space is challenging, considering the variety of options available. This guide will help you through the essential factors to consider when selecting hardwood flooring for your commercial properties.

Durability

Durability is one of the most important considerations when selecting hardwood flooring for a commercial space. Unlike residential spaces, business areas experience higher foot traffic, which can quickly wear down flooring materials. Due to this, it's essential to choose a hardwood species that can withstand the demands of a commercial environment.

Hardwood species like oak, maple, and hickory are known for their durability and resistance to wear, making them excellent choices for commercial spaces. On the other hand, softer woods like pine and fir might not be the best options due to their susceptibility to dents and scratches.

Maintenance

Maintaining hardwood floors in a commercial space can be time-consuming and costly. Because of that, it's crucial to choose a flooring option that is easy to clean and requires little to no maintenance. Look for hardwood floorings with high-quality finishes that can resist spills, stains, and scratches, ensuring the floor remains at its best for years.

Prefinished hardwood flooring is an excellent option for commercial spaces, as it comes with a factory-applied finish that is more durable and resistant to wear than site-finished floors. In addition, prefinished floors can be easier and faster to install, reducing the time needed for installation.

Aesthetics

The aesthetic appeal of hardwood flooring plays a significant role in creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere in a commercial space. When choosing hardwood flooring, consider the style and decor of your property, including the type of wood and its color, grain, and texture.

Wood species come in various colors and grain patterns, allowing you to create the desired look for your commercial space. Domestic hardwood species are best for their versatile appearance, which can suit both traditional and contemporary design styles. Exotic hardwoods like Brazilian cherry or tigerwood can add a unique touch to a space with their rich colors and dramatic grain patterns.

When selecting the most suitable hardwood species, consider the design of the space and the desired aesthetic. Some popular hardwood species for commercial spaces include the following.

• Oak
• Maple
• Hickory
• Walnut
• Cherry

All of these hardwood species are highly durable and versatile. Oak, besides durability, is also available in red and white varieties. Hard maple floors have light colors and subtle grain patterns. Hickory has a high Janka hardness rating and offers unique and striking grain patterns.

Although not as tough as the others, Walnut is another hardwood specie known for its rich, dark tones and smooth, elegant appearance. Cherry hardwood floors provide warm, reddish tones and sleek graining patterns.

Installation

The installation process is an essential factor to consider when choosing hardwood floors for a commercial space. Since commercial spaces often have tight schedules and require minimal disruption, opt for hardwood flooring that you can install quickly and efficiently.

Engineered hardwood flooring is a popular choice for commercial installations due to its dimensional stability and ease of installation. You can install them using various methods, including floating, glue-down, and nail-down techniques, saving time and labor costs. In addition, people can install engineered hardwood over different subfloors, including concrete, making it suitable for commercial buildings with diverse flooring needs.

You can also finish hardwood floors in two ways: prefinished and site-finished. Prefinished hardwood comes with a factory-applied finish, often more durable and consistent than site-finished floors.

Site-finished hardwood is sanded and finished on-site, allowing more customization but less durability and more time-consuming. Many experts recommend prefinished hardwood planks for commercial spaces due to their durability and ease of installation.

Budget

Budget is an important consideration when selecting hardwood flooring for a commercial space. The cost of hardwood flooring can vary widely depending on the species, grade, and finish. Always consider the installation costs, maintenance, and potential repairs when determining your budget to avoid overspending.

High-end hardwood flooring can be a significant investment, but it's important to remember that quality hardwood floors can last for decades with proper care, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Sustainability

Sustainable hardwood flooring options are becoming increasingly popular due to the international growth of environmental awareness. When choosing hardwood flooring for your commercial space, consider options made from sustainably harvested wood or reclaimed materials. Look for certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) label, which ensures that the wood originates from responsibly managed forests.

What to Consider When Choosing Hardwood Flooring in Austin Commercial Spaces

Hardwood floorings are a game-changer in commercial spaces for several reasons. Even with their numerous benefits, choosing which hardwood is best for your office or store is never easy. Understanding these factors can help alleviate the stress and help you narrow down your choices.

Visit Kelly Hardwood Floors today for more information!