Flooring University – Multifamily 101
Welcome to Flooring University – Multifamily 101, where we delve into the intricate world of multifamily flooring and housing design. Imagine living in a vibrant community where multiple residences coalesce into a single building or complex, from stylish apartments to luxurious condos and cozy townhouses. Designing these spaces is an art, balancing durability, budget, and regional aesthetics while addressing specific acoustic needs and other unique requirements. Join Spartan’s Jake Clary as we explore the essential elements and innovative solutions that make multifamily housing both functional and beautiful.
Key Considerations for Designers
Because designers prioritize durability, budget, and regional aesthetics, choosing the right flooring products for each space can be challenging. Choosing products that cater to multiple functional spaces, or bundling products to fit your budget can be two great options for your next project. Acoustical needs, particularly in higher-class units, can be met with the right flooring to ensure a quiet environment. Budget constraints and supply chain logistics can also play a significant role in product selection.
Flooring Demands in Common Spaces
Common spaces in multifamily housing, such as amenity spaces and corridors, experience high traffic. Durable materials like engineered wood, porcelain, and ceramic tiles are preferred. With this in mind, engineered wood offers a warm and inviting feel, while porcelain tiles provide water resistance and a range of aesthetic options.
Engineered Wood: A Popular Choice
Engineered wood is valued for its durability and ease of maintenance. It’s a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice. However, it is one of the more expensive options. Properly selected, it offers long-term value and a sustainable story, appealing to environmentally conscious developers.
Porcelain Tile: Durable and Versatile
Porcelain tiles are highly durable and water-resistant, with a wide range of price points. Installation can be costly, especially with intricate patterns or large formats. In common areas, intricate designs and higher-end finishes are popular, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
LVT: Cost-Effective and Versatile
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is an inexpensive material with low installation costs. It offers a variety of aesthetics, from wood planks to stone and abstract patterns. LVT is particularly useful in corridors due to its acoustical benefits. It can be combined with underlayments for additional sound insulation.
Carpet Tile: An Acoustic Solution
Carpet tiles remain an option due to their inherent acoustical value. They are relatively inexpensive and available in various aesthetics. However, they are harder to clean and may negatively impact indoor air quality.
Feature Walls: Adding Character
Feature walls with materials like wood, resilient products, or fabrics can differentiate a project. Custom options allow for unique and appealing designs, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space.
Glue Down LVT: A Budget-Friendly Option
Glue down LVT is common in budget-driven projects. It offers various finishes and durability levels, depending on the wear layer thickness. Integrated acoustical LVT provides a one-step solution with built-in sound insulation, simplifying installation.
SPC: A Stable and Moisture-Resistant Option
Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) products are dimensionally stable and moisture-resistant, suitable for spaces not yet environmentally controlled. SPC can be installed over existing floors, saving on demolition costs. It provides inherent acoustical benefits, meeting or exceeding code requirements.
Engineered Wood in High-End Units
Engineered wood is perceived as a high-value option. While it is more expensive, it offers great acoustical value when combined with suitable underlayment. It is becoming more competitive with improved water and scratch resistance.
Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles in Units
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are durable and moisture-resistant, ideal for high-end unit finishes. They are commonly used for backsplashes and floor tiles, offering a high-end aesthetic. However, they require a longer installation process and higher labor costs.
Trends in Multifamily Flooring
Wood visuals remain popular, with a shift towards light browns and warm colors. Stone and abstract visuals are also gaining popularity. Carpet is less favored due to hygiene concerns, with many spaces transitioning to resilient flooring.
Gym Flooring Options
Gym spaces in multifamily projects have various flooring needs. Rubber flooring is known for its durability and acoustical properties. Resilient sheet goods over rubber backing provide durability and an easy-to-clean finish. Acoustical requirements are crucial, especially for gyms on higher floors.
Meeting Job Site Requirements
Effective logistics and timely material delivery are essential. Spartan Surfaces inventories a large amount of material to prevent delays. We offer adhesives, primers, and self-leveling products to address unique site conditions and ensure successful installations.
Choosing the right flooring for multifamily projects involves considering durability, budget, acoustics, and aesthetics. Products like engineered wood, porcelain tiles, LVT, and SPC each have unique benefits and applications. By understanding these options, designers can create beautiful, functional, and durable living spaces. For more insights and assistance, contact a Spartan representative, browse our website, or subscribe to the Spartan newsletter for more information.
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About Spartan
Spartan Surfaces, a subsidiary of Floor & Decor, is a specialty flooring supplier headquartered in Bel Air, MD. Employing over 150 team members, Spartan holds warehousing and offices in Maryland and Minnesota with showrooms in D.C. and Chicago. Its geography encompasses seventy percent of the United States, with continued expansion on the horizon. Taking a human-centered approach, Spartan prides itself on great people dedicated to great products, great families, great friendships, and great happiness.