Floor coverings have come a long way over the past several years, which is exciting news for your commercial space. Laminate flooring and tile flooring are two types of floors used by many businesses. They have a different look and style, and one might meet your needs more than another.
Choosing a floor for your business can be tough without all of the information. Here is what you need to know about the similarities and differences between laminate and tile so that you can make the most informed decision for your next commercial project.
Appearance
Laminate is a layered, synthetic product with an outer surface that can resemble stone or hardwood. Laminate flooring has evolved so much over the past few years that many people can’t tell the difference between it and tile or wood flooring.
But you might want the authenticity and look of a real tile floor. Tile can be made from a variety of resources, such as slate, ceramic, or natural stone.
Durability
Both laminate and tile floors are incredibly durable. The materials used to make laminate flooring allow the floors to stand up to dents, scrapes, and scratches.
Much of the same can be said for tile, which is durable with respect to minor wear and tear. However, tile can chip and crack. You can even have an entire tile shatter if something heavy enough falls on it.
Noise
If noise is a concern in your commercial space, you may wish to opt for laminate flooring. Laminate will absorb sound much better than tile, particularly when you use an underlayment with the product. On the other hand, tile can create an echo in your space, which can be frustrating for customers and workers.
Moisture Resistance
When you install a flooring system, you want it to hold up to the elements and the general moisture present in this part of the country. Likewise, there might be spills from employees or customers that could damage your floor.
Although laminate floors are moisture-resistant, they aren’t waterproof. A laminate floor can become damaged if you leave a puddle of liquid unattended. You’re unlikely to encounter this problem with tile.
Ease of Maintenance
Both laminate and tile floors are easy to clean. All that’s required is a damp mop to clean up messes and spills. But, you’ll want to attend to those spills a bit quicker with a laminate floor. With tile floors, you also need to dry them, or you risk creating a slippery and hazardous surface. Finally, it’s possible that the grout with your tile floors can become discolored over time, but you can often prevent this with grout sealing.
Price
Finally, price can be a significant differentiator between laminate and tile floors. While both options are affordable, there is much more involved in installing a tile floor. This factor alone can drive up your final price. If price is one of your top concerns, laminate might be your best option.
If your business wants to explore flooring options for its commercial space, it’s important to have a partner you can trust. Carolina Services Inc. (CSI) has been serving clients throughout the Charleston, SC area since 1976.
We provide design & build, tenant-fit, and commercial maintenance services that focus on quality, timeliness, and accurate budgets. Contact us today to learn more.
