Best Flooring For Mobility

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Which types of flooring are best for mobility?

Understanding which types of flooring can offer the best support, durability and be resistant to hazards will be needed to reduce any concerns. 

Solid Wood Flooring

Solid wood flooring is a popular choice based on its appearance, as it has an appeal that never seems to fade. It’s tough and works well with classic and contemporary décor. The only things to watch out for with solid wood is that it is prone to scratching or denting. It’s also not advisable to use in areas which may experience dampness. 

Engineered Wood Flooring

In appearance, engineered wood flooring looks very much like solid wood flooring. The main difference is that it’s more affordable and often easier flooring for installation. This is because only the top layer is made of wood, with all the colour and grain you would expect, with the layers underneath made from bonded fibres. Like solid wood, the grain can provide some level of traction to make it less slippery. 

Luxury Vinyl Tile

Tough and waterproof, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is an excellent option for affordable flooring that’s good for spills. That’s why it’s more often used in bathrooms and kitchens. While you might think that vinyl flooring sounds like it’s smooth and could present a risk of slipping, there are textured versions available to reduce this risk.

What flooring is best for wheelchair users?

The first thing to make sure is that all flooring is level, this might need some work if the floor itself is very old. For example, you might find some floorboards have sunk a little. This should be corrected before new flooring is installed. For actual flooring itself, vinyl is one of the preferred types of flooring for wheelchair users. It’s strong and can take the pressure of wheels rolling across it. Another option is vinyl sheet flooring, which offers an even floor covering.

What flooring is best for elderly people?

One of the biggest risk factors for older people who might be experiencing some infirmity is a slippery floor. Very smooth and polished floors do present a danger for elderly people. With this in mind, carpeting is often a sensible option, but be wary of rugs. Even with non-slip backing, it’s easy for the edge of a rug to catch someone’s foot and cause them to trip. Another type of flooring to consider is safety vinyl flooring to avoid nasty slips.

Choosing the right flooring for elderly and disabled people is an important part of their health and well-being for where they live. For more advice on flooring and home improvement, we have more articles to help right here.

Disclaimer: The information contained on this page is intended as an overall introduction and is not intended as specific advice from a qualified professional. Travis Perkins aims to avoid, but accepts no liability, in the case that any information stated is out of date.