Rubber flooring is a popular option that has been around for many decades. Rubber flooring is a popular choice for gyms and schools. It can also be used in stadiums, hospitals, health care facilities, etc.
Durable and long-lasting
Rubber flooring is extremely durable due to its high tensile strengths. It also resists tearing and excessive wear caused by exposure to the weather. Rubber floors can be further strengthened through the vulcanization process, which uses sulfur and extreme heat to create cross-linked chemical bonding. Rubber is made more durable by vulcanization, which hardens its elastomers.
Rubber flooring can last up to 20 years if installed and maintained correctly. Rubber flooring can be recycled once it reaches the end stage of its life cycle.
Environmentally Friendly
Natural rubber, which is made from plant material, decomposes with time. It’s therefore a better option for the environment than plastic, for example. In the past, rubber production and harvesting, especially for tires, has contributed to deforestation.
Rubber can be recycled once its life cycle is over. Many rubber flooring manufacturers use tires and other rubber waste to make their products.
Shock Absorption
Rubber flooring is a great shock absorber because of its elastic and viscous qualities. It can withstand heavy vibrations and impacts without being damaged. Rubber flooring is used in gyms because it can withstand frequent impacts, such as barbells and weights being dropped, much better than concrete.
Slip-Resistant
Rubber flooring has a high coefficient of slip resistance. This can reduce workplace accidents, school accidents, and gym injuries. Rubber flooring maintains its high friction even if it gets wet. This is especially true when compared with ceramic/porcelain tiles, linoleum and vinyl flooring.
Rubber flooring can be further improved by adding texture or drainage holes. The latter will help prevent water from pooling.
Noise Reduction
Rubber flooring absorbs sound in a similar way to shockwaves. Rubber flooring can reduce the transmission of noise between floors by acting as a natural sound dampener. Rubber floors are ideal for gyms and schools when paired with rubber ceiling treatments and rubber wall panels.
Versatility
Rubber flooring’s versatility is another benefit. Rubber flooring is available in many colors, shapes and designs. This makes it suitable for almost any type of setting.
Comfortable Underfoot
Rubber flooring is more comfortable than concrete, wood, or tile flooring, even though it’s still firm. It can reduce the risk of back, knee, and foot pain in employees who stand for extended periods or lift heavy weights, for example, in a gym.
Low Maintenance
Rubber floors are easy to maintain once they have been installed. Rubber flooring installed in residential environments only requires vacuuming once a week, and mops every now and then.
Rubber floors in gyms and labs as well as commercial centers or other places that see a lot of foot traffic will require more maintenance. In these cases, the rubber floor may need to mopped or vacuumed several times per week or even daily.
Hypoallergenic
Rubber flooring, aside from being hypoallergenic by nature, is unlikely to trigger allergic reactions among those who are in contact with it. Rubber flooring is also antimicrobial (which can be strengthened by adding certain compounds) and resistant to mildew and mold growth.
Chemical Resistance
The molecular structure and non-porous properties of rubber flooring provide an excellent layer of chemical resistance. Chemicals, acids and grease can sit on top of rubber floors without damaging or staining them.
Rubber flooring is ideal for laboratories and factories that handle chemicals regularly.
Rubber Flooring: Common Uses
Rubber flooring was installed at Arbor Grove Elementary. Photo by REGUPOL
Rubber floors are not only used in gyms and sports stadiums.
Rubber flooring is suitable for a wide range of applications.
Rubber flooring can be used in many different types of buildings, including:
- Fitness and Gym Centers
- Playgrounds & Recreational Areas
- Schools and Educational Facilities
- Health Care Facilities
- Commercial Buildings
- Stadiums and Sports Facilities
- Industrial and Warehouse Spaces
- Residential Spaces
- Hospitality and Recreational Facilities
- Laboratories and cleanrooms
The conclusion of the article is:
Rubber flooring is a popular option for flooring in many facilities due to its versatility and durability. Rubber flooring is available in a variety of sizes, shapes and thicknesses. It can also be found in a wide range of colors and compositions.
Rubber flooring can last up to 20 years if properly maintained. Rubber flooring can be made from recycled tires, which is a cost-effective solution. This will also help you earn LEED points for your project.