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Introduction
In commercial architecture and interior design, choosing the right flooring isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about balancing performance, story, and value. Reclaimed Elm Flooring has become a popular choice for upscale restaurants, boutique hotels, retail environments, and corporate spaces that aim to combine sustainability, uniqueness, and premium feel.
This guide explains how to specify reclaimed elm flooring for your next project — covering structure, thickness, finish, and design matching — all based on Songlinfloor’s extensive experience in large-scale commercial supply.
1. Choose the Right Construction for Your Space
Engineered reclaimed elm flooring comes in two main structures:
| Structure | Composition | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 3-layer | Reclaimed elm top + poplar core + birch backing | Residential & light commercial |
| Multi-layer | Reclaimed elm top + cross-layered birch plywood | High-traffic commercial & humid environments |
✅ Recommendation:
- For boutique retail stores, offices, and restaurants, we recommend multi-layer construction for stability.
- For small-scale hospitality suites or residential showrooms, 3-layer is sufficient and cost-effective.
🔗 Learn more about reclaimed elm’s unique origin:
From Antique Furniture to Fine Floors
2. Specify the Right Thickness and Wear Layer
Depending on the subfloor and usage, consider the following:
| Option | Specification | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| 20/6mm | 20mm total thickness / 6mm wear layer | Residential, light traffic commercial |
| 20/8mm | 20mm total thickness / 8mm wear layer | High-end commercial, longer lifecycle |
✅ Tip:
For clients who value durability and future sanding ability, always choose 20/6mm. It ensures longevity in hospitality and office environments.
3. Surface Finish: Style + Function
Your choice of finish affects both look and maintenance:
| Finish Type | Benefits | Commercial Use Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Oil | Deep color, touchable texture | Softer look, requires periodic care |
| Invisible UV Lacquer | Matte raw wood look + scratch resistance | Ideal for boutiques and luxury retail |
| Brushed + Stained | Highlights grain, hides wear | Excellent for restaurants and lobbies |
✅ Design Tip:
Pair brushed + UV lacquer for a natural-but-durable effect. It works well in Scandinavian, vintage industrial, and earth-tone interiors.
🔗 Explore finishing options:
Reclaimed Elm Surface Restoration & Treatment
4. Color & Grain Matching for Visual Consistency
As reclaimed elm has natural variation, we provide:
- Pre-sorted bundles based on tone ranges (light, mid, dark)
- Option for project-based color calibration
- Samples matched to your design palette
📦 Order a sample kit to test under your lighting conditions before finalizing.
5. Installation Considerations for Commercial Projects
- Subfloor prep: Engineered reclaimed elm can be installed over concrete or plywood. Use vapor barriers where necessary.
- Installation methods: Click-lock (optional), tongue & groove, glued-down.
- Underfloor heating: Compatible when using multi-layer structures + correct adhesive.
- MOQ for customization: Starts from 300 m² for bespoke finishes or sizing.
Conclusion: From Concept to Completion, We Deliver
At Songlinfloor, we don’t just supply reclaimed elm flooring — we guide you through every detail of specification. From finish selection to performance considerations, we offer tailored solutions to meet your commercial project’s design, budget, and environmental goals.
✅ Ready to Specify Reclaimed Elm for Your Project?
📦 Request project-specific samples with custom color tone options