How to Choose the Perfect Flooring for a Retirement Community
When deciding on the perfect flooring for a retirement community, several factors must be considered. The flooring must be easy to maintain and provide a safe surface for seniors. It should also be aesthetically pleasing and able to withstand a lot of foot traffic. And when installing and replacing flooring, you’ll undoubtedly want to work with a vendor who can efficiently and professionally respond to your needs. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to choose the right flooring for your retirement community so that you can ensure your residents’ comfort and safety.
Best Flooring Options
Flooring for seniors requires thought and care as they have some specific needs.
Carpet can be an excellent choice for retirement communities. Carpet is softer and more comfortable than other flooring options, and it can provide insulation from both sound and cold temperatures. It is also available in various colors and styles, easily matching any décor.
Senior Safety Advice recommends “short-cut pile carpet no thicker than 1/4-inch pile height.” The only downside is that it is a soft surface that can be challenging to clean and may need frequent maintenance.
LVP, or luxury vinyl plank, has become increasingly popular recently. It is made from synthetic materials and is designed to look like hardwood or stone, but it’s much more affordable. Installing LVP creates an even surface with no uneven gaps or seams, making it suitable for anyone at risk for trip-and-fall. LVP is also very durable and can be installed quickly.
Also, in the same article, Senior Safety Advice notes “waterproof luxury vinyl planks” as the safest flooring.
What Else to Consider When Choosing Flooring for a Retirement Community
The safety and comfort of residents should always be a top priority when selecting any flooring. This is especially true for retirement communities, where elderly and disabled people may be at greater risk of slipping and falling.
Yes, function and safety are primary concerns for seniors, but that doesn’t mean it has to be institutional or ugly. Aesthetics are also essential when selecting the perfect flooring for a retirement community. In shared spaces, choose versatile designs and materials that will fit with the overall decor of the building. In private areas, residents may want to ‘make it their own,’ and a neutral carpet or LVP pattern allows them to customize and select flooring that will blend in well with the rest of the environment, creating an atmosphere that is welcoming and comfortable for all who inhabit the space.
When it’s time to Replacing Flooring
When buying flooring for a retirement community, one of the primary considerations is the time frame in which you need it. Likely, no one has time to wait for flooring to arrive, so shopping local and what is in stock is often the only option. Not only will this be more convenient, but you’ll also be able to ensure you get the exact products and materials you need before they arrive. Plus, if you have any issues with the product or need installation advice, you can easily shop online or visit our showroom to get the help you need. Furthermore, buying local helps support your local economy and small businesses in your area.
Sloane’s Carpet Secret is a great choice for your home, and we are adept at making your commercial flooring project a success. We’ve worked with many special needs communities – like retirement communities – and we are needs.