Safety is crucial when considering any major changes or improvements to your home or commercial space. Here are a few types of flooring that help promote safer movement for you to consider installing in your space.
Rubber Flooring
Without a doubt, the most versatile flooring that provides the best traction is rubber flooring. Rubber creates a lot of friction with whatever it comes into contact with, making it hold objects and feet better than other flooring materials. Rubber is also a safe floor option because it absorbs shock very well, meaning that it can help cushion falls in the event that they do occur. Rubber floors come in several forms, most commonly adhesive tiles or planks that are installed directly onto subflooring. Some rubber floors are poured like concrete, especially in large or outdoor commercial spaces. Rubber flooring is a great option for business owners or homeowners in certain settings. On the other hand, there are some areas where rubber flooring may not be the best choice. Rubber is recyclable and naturally renewable, making it an eco-friendly option; however, the odor of rubber can be a deal-breaker for sensitive homeowners and business owners. Consider rubber flooring for home gyms, basements, or commercial garages and gyms, especially when safe movement is a must.
Textured Tile
Of all the residential and commercial types of hard flooring, textured tile provides some of the best traction. Smooth porcelain tiles are known to be quite slippery when wet, but if the flooring has a textured surface, it can provide a good amount of grip even when moisture is present. Many tile selections are crafted specifically for bathroom or kitchen floors and are designed to be slip-resistant. Sometimes, textured tiles are coated with slip-proof materials, and other times, the texture of the flooring itself makes it slip-resistant. Of all the different types of flooring, textured tile can be the most expensive to install. In the end, it may be worth it, though. Tile works very well in commercial and residential bathrooms, showers, and other rooms where moisture is often present.
Carpeting
When it comes to what type of flooring is best for safe movement, carpeting provides a high level of traction for various uses, both in the home and in a business setting. In some cases, it’s probably your best bet when you consider budget and longevity, as well as comfort. Unlike tile, this soft flooring option is cushioned, making it great in places where people are on their feet for long periods of time. This is why carpeting is often used in commercial production and retail spaces, as well as offices. Not only is carpeting supportive and soft, but it also keeps people upright by providing high traction. Even low-pile carpet tiles, often found in offices and finished basements, provide excellent grip. A big downside to carpeting is that it cannot handle moisture at all, so it’s not a great choice for rooms where spills or humidity are an issue.
Stay Safe With the Right Flooring
Ultimately, there are many safe flooring options for home and business owners that can fit a variety of needs, and we haven’t even covered them all. If you’re interested in exploring your choices for safer flooring and traction, look no further than Ozburn-Hessey for your home or commercial installation.
