The best commercial flooring is long-lasting, durable, and easy to maintain. Searching for the right flooring for your commercial structure can be a challenge. Researching the options and exploring flooring samples makes the process easier.
Whether you're installing new flooring in a retail space, a doctor's office, a restaurant, or elsewhere, the process of selecting flooring is the same. This article will explore the most popular flooring materials in commercial structures in 2025. We'll discuss costs, trends, and the step-by-step process of choosing your next commercial floor.
Popular Commercial Flooring Options
Vinyl
Vinyl has quickly become the most popular commercial flooring option available. Vinyl comes in multiple forms so you can choose the most appropriate vinyl option for your commercial space.
Luxury vinyl tile, called LVT, comes in tile and plank format. Most LVT is waterproof and easy to clean, so it's the perfect material for restaurants, doctor offices, educational facilities, and more. In addition to being very durable, luxury vinyl is aesthetically flexible and can mimic the look of real wood and stone.
Another type of vinyl tile in commercial spaces is vinyl composition tile (VCT), typically found in big box retail stores. Like LVT, VCT is easy to clean and maintain. VCT is also economical for installation in large spaces, so it's the preferred option in big retail structures.
Benefits of vinyl:
- Slip resistance. Luxury vinyl tile can be textured for greater slip resistance, making it a safer option in commercial spaces.
- Long-lasting durability. Vinyl lasts for decades when properly maintained.
- Resistant to stains. Vinyl is resistant to stains, which makes it a preferred option in educational facilities, grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and other commercial spaces.
- Waterproof or water-resistant. Many vinyl flooring options are waterproof, and those that aren't are usually water-resistant.
- Flexible. Vinyl is aesthetically flexible. It comes in many colors and styles.
- Low cost. Many businesses prefer vinyl flooring for its low cost and affordable installation.
Commercial Carpet Squares
Commercial carpet is a popular option in some healthcare facilities, office spaces, and educational facilities. Years ago, commercial carpeting was installed in rolls that were torn out when it became too dirty or worn. Today, many business owners turn to commercial carpet squares because squares are easy to remove and can be replaced when stained.
Benefits of commercial carpet:
- Soft, comfortable feel underfoot. Commercial carpet squares are softer and more comfortable in certain commercial settings. Carpet creates an inviting environment for your office or other commercial space. Many healthcare facilities and schools prefer carpets because of their warmth and beauty.
- Easy to repair or replace. Carpet squares can be torn out quickly and replaced with new squares as needed.
- Dampens sound. Carpet is popular because it dampens sound in environments like office spaces. This is helpful in commercial settings where workers need a quiet environment to help them concentrate, or in healthcare settings where patients need rest during recovery from a surgery or illness.
- More durable than you might think. Commercial carpet is designed for performance and longevity. While it may not last as long as vinyl or concrete, it's made from highly durable synthetic fibers that withstand heavy traffic, frequent cleaning, and years of wear and tear.
Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is a popular option in large commercial spaces like warehouses and certain types of big box stores.
Benefits:
- Highly durable. Polished concrete is resistant to chips and scratches and can withstand years of wear and tear.
- Easy to maintain. This type of floor is easy to maintain and clean.
- Low-cost. Polished concrete floors are relatively low-cost and economical.
- Attractive. Concrete can be stained in different colors and patterns for your purposes.
- Moisture-resistant. Polishing concrete reduces its porosity, making this floor resistant to spills and stains.
How Much Should Commercial Flooring Cost?
Costs vary quite a bit when you're installing a commercial floor. If you're replacing the flooring material in your commercial space, plan to spend around $6 to $8 per square foot on purchase and installation.
How to Choose Commercial Flooring
Selecting commercial flooring is easy if you've done some research and preparation.
- Make a budget. Know how much you can afford before shopping for commercial flooring materials. If you can't find any flooring in your price range, explore financing options.
- Do some research. Visit comparable businesses to explore the options and see what's typical for your industry. Do research online.
- Look at samples. Bring samples back to your business to view colors and textures in your commercial setting.
- Visit the supplier recommended by your contractor. Your commercial contractor may recommend a material supplier to help you choose the best flooring for your commercial structure. The supplier your contractor recommends may have better options and prices than other retailers in your area.
- Consider long-term viability. It may be tempting to buy a low-quality product for your commercial remodel, but low-cost flooring may not last long. It's better to purchase a quality product you can rely on for years.
Have Questions? Contact a Contractor You Trust
Whether you're replacing a floor or renovating your entire commercial building, work with a contractor you can trust. Finding the right contractor can make your renovation a less stressful, more productive experience.
For more advice on completing your upcoming renovation, review the resources on Litchfield Builder's website. If you're planning a commercial remodel, call today to learn more about hiring a commercial contractor in Connecticut.