Rubber tiles are one of the most popular flooring options for a number of reasons. They offer traction, a forgiving surface, and superior durability. They are also available in a wide variety of colors, patterns and profiles to add design flair to any room. In addition, some are made from recycled materials and can contribute to LEED points for your construction project.
Many people choose to use rubber floor tile in the basement. This is because it is waterproof, which helps protect against moisture that can cause mold and mildew. It is also affordable compared to other basement flooring options like engineered hardwood.
Another great thing about rubber floor tiles is that they are easy to install yourself. This is because the interlocking pieces are loosely laid, and don’t require adhesives or double-sided tape. All you need is a utility knife to cut the tiles to size, and an adjustable t-square to mark the floor. For added comfort, we recommend putting down a few layers of foam padding under the tiles.
Whichever type of rubber tiles you choose, it is important to consider their thickness. Thickness impacts the floor’s durability and sound attenuation. Thicker tiles will be more expensive than thinner ones, but they will provide more cushioning underfoot and can resist damage from heavy equipment or dropped weights.
Most rubber floor tiles are made from recycled material, and this is especially true for those marketed as eco-friendly. This means that they are produced from the remains of waste tires that have been collected, accepted, sorted, mechanically processed (cut and shredded), and painted (if necessary). The rubber parts are then used to produce the floor tiles, while the steel parts are sold for use in the manufacture of other products.
Depending on your needs and budget, you may want to choose between virgin or revulcanized rubber tiles. Revulcanized rubber is more durable than virgin, but it can have a strong rubber smell that will take some time to dissipate. For most purposes, either is fine, but if you are concerned about the smell, revulcanized is probably the better choice.
Both types of rubber tiles are water-resistant, and this feature makes them an excellent choice for areas that will be subject to dampness. This will help prevent the formation of microbial byproducts, such as mildew and mold, which can create a unhealthy environment for sensitive individuals. It will also extend the life of the floor by preventing the growth of bacteria and other organisms that can slowly deteriorate the material.
Rubber tiles are a great option for use in home gyms, as well as Olympic lifting setups. They are also great for commercial fitness facilities and can handle the high level of activity that is typical of such spaces. Some rubber floor tiles are also available with antimicrobial properties, which makes them ideal for use in food service areas.
Rubber tiles are also a good option for use in garages and workshops, as they can be easily cleaned and can be rolled up and stored when not in use. They can also be laid over existing concrete or wood floors to protect them from damage and to add insulation and sound attenuation.