6 TYPES OF COMMERCIAL HOSPITAL FLOORING
In all over the world, flooring used in hospitals and medical centers is not just an aesthetic choice; It is crucial for maintaining cleanliness, sanitation, and safety while also impacting employee and patient satisfaction, maintenance schedules, and budgets. From operating rooms to waiting rooms, the flooring needs to withstand different pressures in this demanding healthcare environment.
1. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is a versatile and practical flooring option for hospitals. It consists of multiple layers of vinyl, providing durability and protection against regular foot traffic. Compared to vinyl composite tile (VCT), LVT requires less maintenance.
Recent advancements in imaging technology have expanded the design options for LVT. It can closely resemble various materials such as wood, tile, stone, and concrete. This is beneficial for hospitals and clinics, whether located in urban or rural areas, aiming to create a homely atmosphere. LVT is a reliable flooring choice that requires general maintenance and can be used in most areas, with a few exceptions.
However, LVT does have some drawbacks. Due to its layered construction, it is susceptible to scratching. In high-traffic areas, there may be limitations on rolling objects. Additionally, the seams in LVT can potentially allow fluids or microorganisms to seep in, so it is advisable to avoid using it in procedural rooms or surgical suites.
- Corridors, waiting rooms, patient rooms, entryways
- Surgical suites, operating rooms, procedural rooms, ICU
2. Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT)
Vinyl composite tile (VCT) is gradually being replaced by luxury vinyl tile (LVT) in many applications. VCT is composed of natural ground stone, plastics, fillers, and pigments, and it is generally more affordable than LVT. However, despite its initial appeal in terms of price and durability, the long-term cost savings are often diminished by its high maintenance requirements. Regular stripping, waxing, and polishing are necessary to keep VCT looking attractive, which can be disruptive in a hospital environment.
Moreover, VCT has a tendency to expand and contract, potentially resulting in gaps between tiles over time. When considering the overall cost of ownership, LVT generally provides better value compared to VCT.
- Corridors, waiting rooms, patient rooms, entryways
- Surgical suites, operating rooms, procedural rooms, ICU
3. Sheet Vinyl
Commercial sheet vinyl is a popular flooring choice that is typically available in rolls up to six feet wide. It offers a variety of patterns and styles, but its primary advantage lies in having fewer seams across a large area. The seams are heat sealed to prevent the penetration of microorganisms. Unlike LVT or VCT, sheet vinyl can be extended up the wall, facilitating easy cleaning and maintenance.
Due to its monolithic nature, excellent cleanability, and ability to repel microorganisms, sheet vinyl is particularly well-suited for use in procedural rooms and surgical suites where strict infection control is essential. Some hospitals also prefer to use it in corridors for its ease of cleaning. It’s important to note that specific regulations may dictate flooring criteria in certain areas, so it is advisable to collaborate with a reputable construction manager specializing in healthcare who understands the associated regulations.
- Surgical suites, operating rooms, procedural rooms, ICU, corridors
- Waiting rooms, patient rooms, entryways
4. Rubber Flooring
Rubber flooring is an attractive option for hospitals and healthcare facilities with a strong focus on sustainability, as it is a natural material. It offers benefits such as sound absorption and a soft underfoot feel. However, in terms of aesthetics, rubber flooring has limited options, typically available in solid or marbled colors with textured finishes like raised dots or a hammer finish. It’s worth noting that linoleum is another natural flooring product, but its high cost makes it rare in healthcare settings. Both rubber and linoleum are more expensive than sheet vinyl flooring.
One advantage of rubber flooring is its low maintenance requirements, and it can even self-heal from minor abrasions or cuts. It is highly durable, making it well-suited for high-traffic areas.
- Stairwells, entryways, vestibules
- Surgical suites, operating rooms, procedural rooms, ICU, corridors, waiting rooms, patient rooms
5. Bamboo Flooring
- Offices, chapel, private waiting rooms, specialty areas
- Surgical suites, operating rooms, procedural rooms, ICU, corridors. waiting rooms, patient rooms, entryways
6. Commercial Carpet
- Offices, waiting rooms, lobbies, public corridors
- Surgical suites, operating rooms, procedural rooms, ICU, patient rooms, entryways
Tips for Selecting Hospital Commercial Flooring
When selecting commercial healthcare flooring, consider whether it is for new construction or a remodeling project. For new construction, various flooring materials can be considered. However, in remodeling projects, the existing floor condition and preparation work should be taken into account. Luxury vinyl tile is recommended in such cases as it is forgiving and can cover flaws effectively, whereas sheet vinyl may highlight minor imperfections.
Working with an accredited installer or one recommended by the flooring manufacturer is crucial, especially for sheet vinyl installation that requires specific skills like heat-welded seams and base coving.
Early planning should involve determining the appropriate flooring types for each area of the hospital or clinic. Understanding the cost differences, installation methods, and pricing of different flooring options is essential for securing accurate bids. Involving an experienced flooring specialist with knowledge of healthcare industry codes and regulations is critical. Collaboration between flooring specialists, designers, construction managers, and the flooring manufacturer is key to making informed decisions and achieving a successful outcome.
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