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One of the most important elements of your trade show booth is also one of the easiest to overlook—because it’s right under your feet. That’s right: your flooring plays a critical role in both the look and feel of your exhibit space.
While great flooring may go unnoticed (and that’s often the goal), poor flooring grabs attention for all the wrong reasons—whether it’s worn, dirty, or distractingly bright. But when chosen thoughtfully, flooring can enhance your brand, create a welcoming atmosphere, and even boost your ROI.
Why Flooring Matters 
- First Impressions: Flooring helps define your space and sets the tone for your booth.
- Comfort: Anti-fatigue flooring keeps your team energized and your visitors comfortable.
- Branding: Materials and colors can reinforce your brand identity or create a specific vibe—luxurious, creative, casual, or bold.
- Functionality: Flooring helps guide traffic flow and protect your booth setup.
Exhibit flooring is the surface material used to cover your booth space. It comes in a variety of styles, colors, and materials to match your design and create the right atmosphere for your audience.
Flooring Options for Small Booths
If you're working with a 10x10 or 10x20 space, portability and ease of setup are key. Consider:
- Rolled Carpet – Soft, professional, and available in many colors.
- Rolled Vinyl – Lightweight and often available in woodgrain or stone patterns.
- Interlocking Tiles – Easy to transport and install; available in foam, rubber, or plastic.
- Artificial Turf – Unique and thematic, great for outdoor or lifestyle brands.
Most trade shows do require flooring, but some venues may already be carpeted. Always check your exhibitor manual or ordering site to confirm requirements for your specific event.
What Should You Look for in Exhibit Flooring?
- Durability – Can it withstand heavy foot traffic?
- Comfort – Will it support long hours of standing and walking?
- Ease of Installation – Can you set it up yourself, or will you need help?
- Sustainability – Are there eco-friendly or reusable options available?
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- Rental Flooring
- Convenient and cost-effective
- Setup and teardown often included
- No shipping or storage required
- Owned Flooring
- Ideal for frequent exhibitors
- Greater control over design and reuse
- Requires shipping, handling, and maintenance
| Flooring Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Rolled Carpet | Soft, professional, and easy to match with booth design. Add padding for comfort. |
| Rolled Vinyl | Lightweight and stylish—great for wood or stone aesthetics. |
| Interlocking Tiles | Portable and easy to install—perfect for smaller booths. |
| Artificial Turf | Unique and thematic—great for outdoor, sports, or lifestyle brands. |
| Visqueen | Protective plastic covering for move-in—keeps flooring clean and damage-free. |
Do You Need Padding?
Yes—single or double padding can make a huge difference. It absorbs impact, reduces fatigue, and adds comfort for both staff and visitors. Many shows offer discounted flooring and padding packages, so be sure to check your exhibitor ordering site.
Eco-Friendly Flooring Options
Looking to go green? Consider:
- Natural or recycled materials
- Reusable flooring
- Rental options that reduce waste
- No flooring (if allowed)—a minimalist and sustainable choice
Choosing the right flooring is essential to creating a professional, comfortable, and visually appealing booth. Whether you're renting or buying, think about your goals, your brand, and your audience—and make sure your flooring supports all three.
Focused on Exhibitor Success
Helping exhibitors succeed is our top priority. Download our Exhibitor Budget Worksheet and continue exploring the Exhibitor Roadmap for more planning tools and expert tips.
If you're exhibiting at a GES show, click here to find your show and explore:
- GES Exhibit Flooring+ – Discount flooring packages
- GES Exhibit Furnishings+ – Discount furniture packages
- Exhibit Systems+ – Turnkey booth rentals with custom fabric graphics