Wilmac Flooring

The Best Flooring For Wheelchair Users

Getting from A to B in a wheelchair can be incredibly frustrating. There are all kinds of obstacles that block the way for a wheelchair user, including the new outdoor seating areas that every major UK city introduced after lockdown ended. It’s therefore more essential than ever that we ensure their home and favourite social spots are installed with suitable flooring for wheelchair users. This guide outlines which flooring types provide the most safety and ease of mobility for disabled individuals.

Wheelchair Friendly Flooring UK

As flooring suppliers in Chester, we can install wheelchair friendly flooring in both domestic and commercial settings. When searching for good flooring for disabled individuals, you must consider the following factors:

• Durability 
• Comfort
• Grip
• Transitioning between rooms
• Room type

Working from this list, we’re going to cover what flooring is best for disabled individuals.

Real Wood Flooring For Wheelchair Users

Solid or engineered wood flooring provides great accessibility for wheelchair users. The hard surface allows the person to comfortably move through the room without any restrictions or risk of slipping. It’s also a really durable surface, but should the occasional scuff or scrape appear, the damage can be fixed with ease. 

Is Laminate Flooring Good For Wheelchairs?

Laminate can be a suitable flooring for wheelchair users (providing easy and comfortable movement), as long as it’s high grade. This is to ensure longevity and prevent early replacement costs. 

You’ll need to look for an AC rating (Abrasion Coefficient) of AC3 or above, and AC5 for bathrooms and kitchens. 

Best Vinyl Flooring For Electric Wheelchairs

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) is one of the best types of vinyl flooring for wheelchairs. It’s highly durable, suitable for any room in the home, and provides ease of movement. Click LVT also includes a thicket board which helps to provide more durability.

Rubber Flooring For Wheelchairs

Rubber flooring is a popular choice for wheelchair users as it can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments. It’s durable and slip-resistant even when wet, allowing you to cover wheelchair ramps with rubber roll to provide more traction when it’s been raining. Rubber flooring additionally offers some impact absorption, making it safer if someone were to fall.

Flooring Types To Avoid

We don’t want you making a costly mistake, so here are the flooring types you should definitely avoid: 

• Thick pile carpets – this will constantly reduce or halt movement.
• Tile – The glossy finish tile often means slippery surfaces, causing skidding, unpredictable changes in speed, and reduced brake function.
• Vinyl roll – Though not all vinyl roll needs to be avoided, lower grade options aren’t worth taking your chances on. It’s poor durability will result in frequent replacements. 

If you’re on the hunt for the best flooring for wheelchair users, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team can arrange a time that works best for you to get your home or establishment wheelchair friendly as soon as possible. You can take a look at some of our previous projects here if you need some inspiration.