In the world of trade shows, the design of your booth is crucial. Among all elements, one of the most overlooked yet significant is trade show floor. From plush carpets to durable vinyl, the right flooring can enhance the overall aesthetic of your booth and provide much-needed comfort for attendees. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at some of the best trade show flooring options available in 2023 and help you make the best choice for your exhibit.
Types of Trade Show Flooring
Event flooring is an essential component of trade shows, providing a professional and attractive surface for exhibitors and attendees alike. Trade show flooring comes in various types to suit different needs and preferences. Among the most popular are plush rolled carpet, interlocking carpet tiles, interlocking vinyl tiles, FlexFloor rolled vinyl flooring, foam floor tiles, carpet tiles, rubber floor tiles, and plastic/PVC floor tiles. These options offer a range of benefits, including durability, comfort, easy installation, and more, which we’ll explore in detail in the following sections.
| Types of Trade Show Flooring | Features | Best for |
| Plush Rolled Carpet | high-end, comfortable feel underfootcomes in a variety of colors and pile heightseasy to install and remove | premium booths looking for a luxury feelexhibit with a lot of standing or walking, due to the comfort it provides |
| Interlocking Carpet Tiles | easily connect togetherversatile and can be configured to fit any booth size or shapeavailable in many colors and styles | exhibits that change size or layout frequentlybooths that need a quick and easy flooring solution |
| Interlocking Vinyl Tiles | durable, water-resistant, and easy to cleanmimics the look of various flooring types, including wood and stonesimple to install with a click-and-lock system | high-traffic exhibits or those with potential for spillsbooths desiring a more stylish, modern aesthetic |
| FlexFloor Rolled Vinyl Flooring | combines durability of vinyl with the convenience of rollable flooringavailable in a variety of patterns and textureseasy to install, remove, and transport | exhibits that require quick setup and teardownbooths that want the durability of vinyl without sacrificing ease of use |
| Foam Floor Tiles | provides cushioning for comfort during long standing periodslightweight, making it easy to transportinterlocking design allows for custom floor layouts | booths with interactive displays where visitors may stand for extended periodsexhibits that need a lightweight, easy-to-transport flooring option |
| Carpet Tiles | easy to install, clean, and replace if damagedavailable in a wide array of colors and patternsprovides comfort and sound absorption | exhibits that want the comfort of carpet with more design optionsbooths that need an easily replaceable flooring solution |
| Rubber Floor Tiles | durable and resistant to wear and tearprovides slip resistance and comfort underfootcomes in various colors and thicknesses | high-traffic exhibits or those that may involve physical activitybooths that need a durable, low-maintenance flooring solution |
| Plastic/PVC Floor Tiles | highly durable and easy to cleanresistant to water and many chemicalsavailable in many designs, including faux wood and marble | exhibits that may face spills or heavy wearbooths that desire a high-end look with minimal maintenance |
Plush Rolled Carpet
Plush rolled trade show carpet tiles is a common choice for trade show flooring due to its comfort and style.
This type of flooring provides a cushioned surface that can ease the fatigue of attendees who spend long hours on their feet.
Plush rolled carpet is available in various thicknesses, providing a high degree of customization based on the specific needs of your trade show booth.
Plus, its rollable design ensures easy transport and installation.
Interlocking Carpet Tiles
Interlocking carpet tiles are another popular choice for trade show flooring.
Known for their durability, these tiles are designed to withstand high traffic areas, making them a great choice for busy trade show booths.
The interlocking design allows for easy installation and replacement of tiles if necessary.
These tiles are also available in a range of color choices, offering plenty of options for customization.
Interlocking Vinyl Tiles
Interlocking vinyl tiles provide a high-quality, durable option for trade show flooring.
These tiles can withstand high traffic, high heels, and even rolling materials, making them a popular choice for large-scale exhibits.
The interlocking system also makes them easy to install, and their smooth surface is easy to clean and maintain.
Vinyl tiles come in a variety of designs, including faux wood, solid colors, and patterns, giving exhibitors plenty of design options.
FlexFloor Rolled Vinyl Flooring
FlexFloor rolled vinyl flooring is a flexible, durable, and attractive option for custom trade show flooring.
Made of high-quality soft plastic vinyl, this type of flooring is designed to handle heavy traffic while maintaining its appearance.
FlexFloor is available in a range of styles, from wood grain to natural stone, offering a variety of aesthetics to match any booth design.
Like other rollable options, FlexFloor is easy to transport and install.
Foam Floor Tiles
For a lightweight, portable trade show flooring solution, consider foam floor tiles.
Foam flooring is made of closed-cell EVA foam that provides excellent cushioning, making them comfortable underfoot.
They’re also resistant to moisture and easy to clean.
Foam floor tiles come in a variety of colors and can be assembled in custom patterns to create a unique and eye-catching booth floor.
Carpet Tiles
Carpet tiles deliver the aesthetics of rolled carpet with an added layer of convenience.
These tiles are simple to install and can be individually replaced if damaged, making them an economical option.
Carpet tiles come in a myriad of textures, patterns, and colors, enabling greater customization than traditional carpet.
Many of these tiles also come equipped with padding for added comfort.
Rubber Floor Tiles
Rubber floor tiles are a top pick for durability and comfort.
Known for their slip-resistant and anti-fatigue properties, these tiles are safe and comfortable for attendees to walk on.
They are also highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and rolling loads, making them suitable for busy booths.
The interlocking design makes them easy to install and disassemble, adding to their convenience.
Plastic/PVC Floor Tiles
For a versatile and low-maintenance option, consider plastic or PVC floor tiles.
These tiles are durable, resistant to moisture and chemicals, and easy to clean, making them a practical choice for trade show flooring.
They also offer a comfortable walking surface and come in various textures and colors for design flexibility.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Trade Show Flooring
Choosing the right trade show flooring involves considering several factors.
- Budget: Trade show flooring comes in a variety of prices, so it’s essential to find something that fits within your budget without compromising on quality and aesthetics.
- Booth Size: The size of your booth will determine how much flooring you’ll need. Larger spaces might require more or larger tiles, which can affect the cost and installation time.
- Foot Traffic: Consider the amount of foot traffic your booth will receive. If you expect high traffic, you’ll need durable flooring that can withstand frequent use.
- Booth Design and Aesthetic: The flooring should match the overall look and feel of your booth. Consider the color, pattern, and material of the flooring to ensure it complements your booth’s design.
- Installation and Maintenance: Some flooring options are easier to install and maintain than others. Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put into the installation and upkeep of the flooring.
- Comfort: Attendees might be standing for long periods, so a comfortable flooring can enhance their experience. Options like foam tiles and plush carpets provide cushioning and can alleviate fatigue.
- Portability: If you frequently participate in trade shows, opt for flooring that’s lightweight and easy to transport and store.
- Durability: The flooring should be sturdy and able to withstand wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas. Vinyl, rubber, and certain types of carpet tiles are known for their durability.
- Customization: Some flooring options allow customization in terms of color, design, size, and even branding or logos. This can help your booth stand out and reinforce your brand identity.
- Sustainability: If environmental impact is a concern, look for flooring options that are made from recycled or sustainable materials.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Trade Show Flooring
Proper cleaning and maintenance can prolong the life of your trade show flooring and keep it looking its best.
Immediate Stain Removal: If your flooring becomes stained, clean it immediately to prevent the stain from setting. Use a cleaning product appropriate for the flooring material and the type of stain.
Storage: When not in use, store your flooring properly to prevent damage. Most flooring should be stored in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. If your flooring comes in tiles, stack them carefully to avoid scratches or other damage.
Prevent Damage: Use furniture pads or casters on booth furniture to prevent scratches or dents in your flooring.
Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance. This helps ensure the longevity of your flooring and may be necessary to uphold any warranty on the product.
Professional Cleaning: Depending on the flooring material, it may be beneficial to occasionally have your flooring professionally cleaned. This can help remove deep-set stains and restore the flooring’s original appearance.
Inspection: Regularly inspect your flooring for signs of wear or damage. This will help you catch any issues early and address them before they become major problems.
Replacement Tiles: If you use carpet or vinyl tiles, consider having a few extra on hand. That way, if one becomes damaged, you can easily replace it without having to replace the entire floor.
Avoiding Heavy Equipment: Avoid placing overly heavy equipment or furniture on certain types of flooring, such as foam or certain carpets, as this could cause permanent depressions or damage.
Remember, the key to maintaining your trade show flooring is regular care and prompt attention to any spills or damage. With proper maintenance, your flooring can remain attractive and functional for many trade shows to come.
What Flooring Type is Best for Your Exhibit?
The best exhibit flooring for your exhibit depends on your specific needs and preferences. For comfort and style, consider carpet or foam tiles. If durability is a top concern, vinyl or rubber tiles may be a better choice. For easy installation and maintenance, consider interlocking carpet or vinyl tiles.
Renting or Purchasing? Which One Do You Need?
The decision between renting and purchasing trade show flooring depends on your company’s specific circumstances and needs. Both options have their pros and cons, so it’s essential to weigh these carefully before making a decision.
Frequency of Participation in Trade Shows
If your company regularly attends trade shows, it may be more cost-effective to purchase your trade show flooring.
On the other hand, if your company only attends trade shows sporadically or is participating for the first time, renting may be a more financially sound decision. It eliminates the need for a large upfront investment and allows you to try different flooring options before committing to a purchase.
Budget
Purchasing trade show flooring requires a significant upfront investment, which may not be viable for all businesses, especially startups and small companies. Renting, in contrast, requires less upfront cost, making it a more affordable short-term solution.
Storage and Transportation
If you decide to purchase, you must consider the cost and logistics of storing and transporting the flooring to and from the trade show venue. Renting eliminates these concerns as the rental company usually handles the delivery, installation, and pickup of the flooring.
Customization and Branding
Purchasing your trade show flooring offers greater opportunities for customization and branding. You can choose colors, materials, and even incorporate your company logo or specific branding elements into the design. While some rental companies offer customizable options, they may not provide the same level of flexibility and uniqueness as owning your flooring.
Changing Needs and Trends
Renting allows you to adapt to changing needs and trends easily. If you want to change your booth’s design or size, you can simply rent a different type of flooring for each event. If you purchase your flooring, you are committed to using it for several events, which may limit your ability to adapt to changes and current trends.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tradeshow flooring can significantly enhance the look and feel of your booth, contributing to a successful trade show experience. From plush carpets to durable vinyl, there are many great options to choose from. Consider your booth’s design, your budget, and your practical needs to find the best trade show flooring for your exhibit in 2023.
Aplusexpo: Your One-Stop Solution for Trade Show Flooring
In search of a comprehensive solution for your next event’s trade show booth flooring? Look no further than Aplusexpo, a leading trade show company based in Las Vegas offer you high-quality and stylish flooring options. Understanding the importance of both aesthetics and functionality, Aplusexpo offers a range of flooring solutions, all designed to elevate the appearance of your booth while ensuring ease of installation and durability.
So why wait? Contact Aplusexpo today for a free consultation and get a glimpse of your booth with a free CAD-generated model. Enhance your booth presentation with Aplusexpo, where sophistication, professionalism, and convenience meet.
