Back To Basics. The Difference Between Industrial Flooring and Other Flooring Options

When it comes to business infrastructure, flooring holds significant importance, not just for functionality but for safety reasons as well. Businesses should always assess their needs and in a lot of industries, specific industrial flooring is required to keep everyone safe. There are many differences between industrial flooring and other commercial options. While aesthetics are often prioritised in standard settings, practicality and resilience that caters to the demanding environments of manufacturing and distribution should be of most importance.

The difference between industrial flooring and other options comes down to the specific requirements of the industrial setting. This type of flooring is purposefully engineered to withstand heavy loads, constant traffic, and chemical exposure, ideal for operational efficiency in factories and warehouses. Unlike typical commercial flooring options, industrial flooring prioritises durability, employing materials like epoxy or reinforced concrete to ensure longevity and safety amidst rigorous industrial operations.

What Are The Main Differences Between Industrial Flooring & Other Flooring Options?

Durability:

• Industrial flooring is built to withstand heavy loads, constant traffic, and other forms of mechanical stress that are common in industrial settings.
• Materials used in industrial flooring, such as epoxy resins, polyurethane, or reinforced concrete, are selected for their exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.

Strength:

• Industrial flooring needs to support the weight of heavy machinery, equipment, and vehicles like forklifts. Therefore, it’s engineered to have high compressive strength and impact resistance.
• Thicker and stronger materials are used to ensure that industrial floors can withstand the stresses imposed by industrial operations without cracking or breaking.

Chemical Resistance:

• Industrial environments often involve the use of corrosive chemicals, oils, and solvents that can damage conventional flooring materials.
• Industrial flooring is formulated to resist chemical spills and provide a protective barrier against corrosion, ensuring the integrity of the floor surface and preventing contamination of the underlying substrate.

Safety:

• Worker safety is a top priority in industrial settings, so industrial flooring is designed with safety features such as non-slip surfaces or coatings.
• These features help prevent slips, trips, and falls, especially in areas where spills, moisture, or oil residues may be present, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Installation Method:

• Installing industrial flooring often requires specialised techniques and equipment due to its heavy-duty nature.
• Surface preparation is critical to ensure proper adhesion and performance of coatings or overlays, which may involve methods like shot blasting or diamond grinding to prepare the substrate and create a suitable surface for the flooring material.

Maintenance:

• While industrial flooring is designed for durability, it still requires regular maintenance to preserve its performance and appearance.
• Maintenance activities may include periodic cleaning, resealing, or repairs to address any signs of wear, damage, or deterioration caused by heavy use, chemical exposure, or environmental factors.

Industrial flooring is specifically engineered to meet the demands of industrial environments, providing long-lasting performance, safety, and reliability under challenging conditions.

Why Is It Important To Choose The Right Industrial Flooring?

Choosing the right industrial flooring is key for ensuring smooth operations, worker safety, and cost-effectiveness in industrial environments. While aesthetics may be appealing, prioritising durability and functionality is essential due to the heavy wear and tear, constant traffic, and exposure to harsh chemicals typical in industrial settings.

Opting for aesthetically pleasing but less durable flooring can lead to premature deterioration, safety hazards, increased maintenance costs, and downtime. Conversely, investing in high-quality, durable flooring may involve higher upfront costs but can result in long-term savings by reducing maintenance expenses and minimising disruptions to operations. Prioritising functionality over aesthetics ensures a safe, efficient, and cost-effective work environment in industrial facility

Are you searching for a reliable industrial flooring partner for your business operations? Look no further than BAVAP. As a second-generation family-operated business with over 40 years of expertise in preparing and applying flooring systems, we guarantee the highest standard of flooring solutions for your projects. Trust in our experience and dedication to excellence to ensure the durability, safety, and efficiency of your industrial facilities. Get in touch with BAVAP today and experience the difference quality flooring can make for your business.