Rubber flooring is simply a flooring solution designed to protect. It is made from recycled materials such as tires, sports equipment and even shoes. It can also be produced by extracting natural rubber from the "Amazon Rubber Tree" (also known as the Brazilian Hevea brasiliensis tree).
Advantages and Disadvantages of Rubber Flooring
Advantages
Recyclable
Versatility
Highly durable
Dimensionally stable
Easy to maintain
Homogeneous construction
Stain and mildew resistant
Naturally waterproof
Slip and abrasion resistant
Flame retardant
Comfortable - easy on the back and feet
Sound absorbing, anti-static
Disadvantages
Takes longer to install than other materials
A rubber odor will develop after installation, which may linger for several weeks.
Can be slippery when wet if not treated
May be more expensive than other options
Rubber Flooring Installation
As you can see, rubber flooring is very versatile and can be used in a variety of commercial settings. However, you must choose the best application for your facility to achieve the most investment for your budget. Commercial rubber flooring can be installed in one of three ways:
Rubber Flooring Rolls
The installation of rubber flooring rolls is comparable to the installation of traditional broadloom carpet rolls. Both can be installed directly onto the existing subfloor using tape or glue adhesives.
Rubber Floor Tiles
Rubber floor tiles are best suited for commercial facilities that want to install floating floors. This is because these tiles are designed to interlock and lay loosely, eliminating the need for adhesives or double-sided tape.
Rubber Floor Mats
If you want to cover a large area but don't want to install a permanent solution, consider using rubber floor mats. These mats can be used at entryways to prevent slips and also help extend the life of your flooring.
How do I clean my rubber floor?
Maintenance protects your investment. It's that simple. As any facility manager knows, renovations are expensive. Proper maintenance pays off compared to ripping out and replacing every five years.
Floors are no exception. Your floors are subject to foot traffic, stains, and the weight of equipment and furniture every day. You need to have a floor maintenance plan in place to extend the life of your flooring system and keep your manufacturer's warranty intact.
When it comes to rubber flooring, care couldn't be simpler. In fact, rubber is easy to clean and doesn't require any harsh chemicals or detergents. Simply sweep or vacuum away dust and debris, and mop up any residue that's stuck to the surface. Then, let the floor air dry and wipe up any residual liquid that may still be there.
