Rubber tile flooring has a lot to offer, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality. It’s a versatile, durable surface that is suitable for hard-wearing environments, including gyms and basements. In addition, it’s a resilient material that reduces energy bills and adds a measurable R-value to floors.
The best type of rubber floor is the one that fits your decorating needs. You can choose from a variety of textures and colors. Some styles mimic wood and ceramic tile, while others are more realistically designed.
You’ll find that rubber is also available in a wide variety of thicknesses and densities. Ultra-thin tiles are great for bodyweight exercises and light dumbbells; medium thicknesses are ideal for fitness centers and weight rooms; and thicker rubber is best suited for high-intensity activities, such as CrossFit and Olympic lifting.
Installing a rubber floor is simple and straightforward. The tiles are easy to cut and assemble with a sharp knife. Many come with a system of edge pins that hold the pieces together. For permanent installations, you can choose to glue down the tiles or use a free lay method.
There are two main types of rubber flooring: interlocking tiles and basic rolls. Both products are durable, low-maintenance options for residential and commercial applications.
Choosing the right rubber floor for your home and business is an important decision. It will affect how long your new floor lasts, how much it costs to maintain, and whether or not it is a good choice for you.
The first step is to determine what you want the finished product to look like. This will help you decide what texture and color options are best for you.
Some types of rubber flooring are smooth, while others have textured surfaces that add character to the product. Texture options include dimples, rivets, and studs.
Other textures include flecks and patterns that replicate the look of stone or other materials. These materials are especially popular for playgrounds because they are durable, easy to clean, and have a non-slip surface that helps prevent falls.
They are also very attractive, with a multitude of color choices and designs. Some manufacturers even create rubber that looks like wood flooring or ceramic tile.
These colors and textures can be paired with any decor. You can also use water-soluble wax emulsion on these surfaces to make them more attractive, and they are often stain-resistant as well.
You can easily protect hardwood floors with rubber flooring as well. However, you’ll need to use a protective paper underlayment underneath the hardwood.
Aside from preventing moisture damage, rubber is resistant to scratches and scrapes. If you live in a highly trafficked area, you may consider adding a layer of padding to the bottom of the rubber floor for added protection.
The thickness and density of your rubber tile will have a big impact on how well it holds up over time. The most common is 8 mm. For commercial or high-traffic areas, you might consider installing 3/8′′ or 1/2″ thick flooring.