The Advantages of the Beveled Edge for Specialty Flooring

What Is a Beveled Edge?

In general, a beveled edge is a structural edge that is non-perpendicular to the floor. In other words, it's an edge that transitions a structure's border from squared-off to sloping. The term is often used to refer to edges and ends of hardwood flooring. If hardwood edges are beveled, there will be a groove between planks. If they are squared off, wood planks will rest tightly together. Floor tiles can also have squared off or beveled edges (for this article, beveled edges will refer to the border of the entire floor, not the individual tiles). If tiles are not made with a beveled edge, ramped floor borders can be used to obtain beveled floor tiles.

What Is the Purpose of Beveled Edges?

Beveled edges have utility, safety and aesthetic advantages.

First, beveled edges are a safe choice for tile flooring. Given the subtle change in flooring height between tiles and the subfloor, squared off tiles can be a tripping hazard. As unnoticeable as the difference between a subfloor and a raised tile may be, it's easy for squared edges to catch an unsuspecting foot. Ramped floor borders decrease the chance of gravity related accidents occurring.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards require that beveled edges are used when a flooring edges between 1/4 and 1/2 of an inch in height. Greatmats' offers ramped border edges that are ADA approved. In general, these beveled edges make it easier and safer for movement in wheelchairs and on crutches. Beveled edges also make rolling and moving heaving objects easier and less hazardous.

Finally, ramped floor borders give the floor a more complete and finished look. Border strips cover up exposed tile connectors that may jut out from the tile and are much more aesthetically pleasing. For any flooring edge height exceeding 1/2 inch must be treated as a ramp or curb ramp.

Are There Disadvantages to Beveled Edges?

Because ramped floor borders often have to be purchased separately, the only disadvantage is a higher flooring cost. That being said, Greatmats strives to provide the best deals around. You can often find border strips on sale. If ordering in high volume, it may be possible to receive a discount. Get in touch with a Greatmats' customer service representative for more details.

When to Use Ramped Floor Borders

Ramped floor borders are an excellent choice if constructing a ''floating'' floor - a floor in the middle of a room or area. If the flooring is going wall to wall, then edges can (and probably should) stay squared off for a snug, tight fit. If a floor is built in the middle of a space, ramped floor borders give the space a finished feel.

Ramped Floor Borders should also be used in heavy foot traffic situations, as they provide a safety measure against tripping and falling. They can also be attached to floors temporarily when needed, such as when guests come over, or when moving furniture or equipment.

How Do Ramped Floor Borders Work?

It's simple. All one has to do to obtain a beveled edge for a floor tile is attach the ramped floor border to the already-installed floor tile. This process will depend on the make and model of the floor tile, as ramped floor borders are specially made for specific tiles. For example, Greatmats' Max Raised Floor Tile fastens together with a hook-and-loop connection system. Ramped floor borders for this raised floor tile come with the same hook-and-loop system (some strips have hooks, some have loops). Borders easily snap into place on tiles. Border strips are available for almost any raised floor tile, so one always has the freedom to choose a beveled edge.

How to Find the Right Ramped Floor Borders

As mentioned above, ramped floor borders come in a wide variety of sizes and styles. Almost every floor tile with significant thickness will have a corresponding ramped floor border that goes with it. It's important to be aware that some flooring comes with border strips, while others must be ordered separately. If border strips have to be ordered separately, make sure to carefully read the tile's description. At Greatmats, product descriptions will provide you with the information you need to find the right beveled edge so you can be sure to order the correct border strips. If you are feeling uncertain and need a hand, that's what Greatmats customer service team is here for. Representatives will help you find exactly what you want and need.