FLOORING FLOOR FOR THE OUTDOOR
Founder of Factory Direct Flooring Paul Hambidge, provides some key advice on fl ooring options for those considering investing in an outdoor building.
If space is really the fi nal frontier, gaining more of it is a premium for businesses across the country. As the economy fl exes and retracts, businesses will need equal nimbleness, and utilising extra workspace is often a necessary challenge.
Outdoor buildings present an ideal solution if they can be easily made habitable. The price range for such buildings can be wide – from a few thousand for small conversions to tens of thousands of pounds for new builds – but there are some standard elements that remain a key consideration for each, and one of these is the type of fl ooring to opt for. And with an array of options, it can be diffi cult to navigate the minefi eld of what is best suited to the space, its intended use and the overall aesthetic.
Consider the effects of the British
climate when choosing fl ooring Many of the outdoor buildings businesses choose will have a wide access to allow good natural light levels, and also easy access for whatever offi ce furniture or fi xtures need to be manoeuvred in or out of the building. Also who wouldn’t want to throw the doors open and let the outside in on sunny days, and truly embrace the benefi ts of an outside/inside space.
“As the economy fl exes and retracts, businesses will need equal nimbleness, and utilising extra workspace is often a necessary challenge.”
A key consideration here is the impact of high traffi c, particularly on a wet day – we do live in the UK after all. This makes real wood fl oor a poor choice: not only will it be susceptible to water damage, but it can suffer scratches and dents more than alternative fl ooring choices. Similarly, laminate fl ooring - while offering a great array of colours and styles and being incredibly durable - can be adversely affected by water, so in the case of a building that may be open to elements on a rainy day with people or equipment/stock being traipsed in and out, it’s perhaps not the best option.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a great option, coming in a range of colours, styles and plank designs - from wide and
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It’s also worth considering the effects of sunlight on offi ce and storage space. If opting for a wide access point south- facing structure, the fl ooring nearest the door can be subject to intense prolonged heat and sunlight. This can contribute to issues such as warping or fading.
When considering LVT, in the cases of loose lay and click systems, an expansion gap should be left to allow to expansion and contraction as a result of heat, to avoid the dreaded cupping or buckling that can occur. In the case of glue-down, a high temperature adhesive should be used to ensure minimal risk of this happening, as standard adhesive may not keep the fl ooring in place in high temperatures. Another solution is to install UV fi ltering fi lm to the glass of the doors, or blackout blinds to minimise the harsh effects of sunlight on the fl ooring.
Further thoughts Converting an outdoor building into offi ce space also presents a number of further considerations. Offi ce chairs on castors moving around the fl ooring can be a factor to consider when thinking about suitable fl ooring, but LVT and laminate both offer good durability. Try to opt for LVT with a thicker wear layer, for maximum longevity. There is always the option to use a rug or clear plastic fl oor protector where the chair is positioned – which is the best course of action for full protection and a long-lasting fl oor.
Armed with the right knowledge, business owners can choose a fl ooring that they are confi dent will meet their needs, suit the space and stand the test of time. When making what can be a signifi cant investment in an outdoor building structure, giving due consideration to key elements such as fl ooring is a step worth taking.
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ooring.co.uk/ twitter.com/TomorrowsFM
narrow through to long, short, or herringbone effect - and with low acoustics and realistic wood effect patterns and textures. LVT can be loose lay or glue down installation, and DIY click system options are also now widely available, for fast and easy installation. It is worth noting that most LVT products are fully waterproof.
“Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a great option, coming in a range of colours, styles and plank designs.”
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