Athletic flooring needs to be both sturdy and safe for a high-performance environment. For this, rubber flooring is the most common choice for athletic and fitness facilities because it can withstand high traffic, provides a slip-resistant surface, has shock-absorbent properties, and minimizes the risk of injuries. Because of the expense for businesses and individuals, there are understandably a few common questions that people have about rubber flooring. Below are some of our athletic rubber flooring FAQs, answered!
How long does rubber flooring last?
Of course, when you’re investing in quality flooring, you want to know that it will last you for years to come. Depending on a number of factors, rubber flooring can last 20 years or more if properly cared for. You also want to make sure that you’re purchasing the right type and thickness of flooring to support the environment. For example, if you install low-quality, thin athletic rubber flooring tiles in areas where high-performance or heavy-weight exercises are being done, your flooring may not last as long. This highlights the importance of speaking to a rubber flooring specialist to make sure you’re getting the right type for your application.
How thick should the rubber floor be for a gym?
The rule of thumb for gym flooring is that the rubber should be no less than 1/4 inch thick for light workouts and stretching but no less than 5/16 inch thick for general weight lifting and heavier fitness and cardio equipment. ⅜ inch thickness is quite common in commercial gyms but consider going thicker for an area dedicated specifically to heavy weight training or Olympic lifting.
How long does rubber flooring smell?
One of the concerns about athletic rubber flooring is the smell. The good news is that a high-quality rubber floor that is specifically designed for indoor gym usage can have very little odour at all. If you purchase cheaper rubber mats typically designed for Ag or farm usage, there can be a stronger rubber smell. Some of the really strong rubber odours will never go away completely but will dissipate over time.
If you’re concerned about the odour, purchase a rubber flooring material with low VOCs. If you’re on a budget and wish to go with a stinky rubber mat instead, clean the rubber tiles with a gentle cleanser and warm water. Let air dry outside before installing. The smell will typically dissipate after a couple of weeks.
Can you install rubber flooring over tiles or carpet?
Yes, you can install rubber flooring over tiles or carpet so long as the subfloor is even. Any areas that aren’t level or have a bump or crack should be repaired before laying athletic rubber tiles or other rubber flooring products on top.
How much does rubber flooring cost?
The price of rubber flooring ranges from as low as $2 to over $10 per square foot which depends on the type, style, and thickness you choose..
If I can’t afford to cover an entire space, what should I do?
We recommend covering the most important spots first that need comfortable and safe flooring, such as high-performance and weight-lifting areas. If you have an area for stretching or are dedicated to low-impact workouts, you can use foam tiles to reduce the expense as they are cheaper than rubber flooring but still provides a soft and comfortable surface.
What is rubber flooring made of?
Not all rubber flooring companies offer the same products, so the answer to this question depends on what brand of rubber flooring you choose. We offer products that are made of renewable and recycled materials with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. Our rubber flooring can be recycled at the end of its life cycle.
