The flooring you choose sets the foundation for any room’s ambiance, and rubber flooring stands out as a practical, versatile option. Rubber flooring suits various residential and commercial environments due to its durability, safety, and comfort. From gyms and playrooms to kitchens and high-traffic areas, it gives impact, helps prevent slips and stands up to heavy use.
Ecological alternatives are available with recycled rubber materials, so you can get good support and use. Let’s discover why rubber flooring is the best choice for your next construction!
What is Rubber Flooring?
Rubber flooring is a flooring surface which is made from natural, synthetic or recycled rubber, it comes in different forms as sheets, mats, and tiles, to be used in both residential and commercial places. The rubber flooring is known for its durability, slip-resistance, and shock-absorbency properties. This material is ideal for high-traffic or heavily used areas with safety in mind, like gyms, schools, health care facilities, and playrooms.
Unlike hard surface options like wood or tile or just plain carpet flooring, rubber is absolutely softer and firmer, which reduces damage from slipping and falling. It also possesses water-resistant, stain-resistant and abrasion-resistant, marking this flooring virtually as a long term investment within any space.
Types of Rubber Floorings
Rubber flooring comes in an incredibly large variety of styles, each good for specific applications or environments. The following are the main types of rubber floorings available for installation:
1. Rubber Tiles
Rubber tiles are used in homes and commercial structures. These are available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses and interlock for easier installation. Thus, they are user-friendly flooring options with non-adhesive use. Rubber tiles are highly used for gyms, playground surfaces, because their elastic flexibility allows them to withstand heavy weights.
2. Rubber Rolls
Rolled rubber floors come in large sheets which you will cut to the size of your room. It would serve well for large areas like commercial kitchens, fitness centres, or even classrooms. Because there is no way dirt or moisture can get trapped inside, it also helps in absorbing shock.
3. Rubber Mats
Rubber mats are often used as supplemental flooring where an extra cushion is needed. For example, under exercise machines, in commercial kitchens, or in workplaces where employees remain standing for long periods. Most of these mats consist of reinforced rubber as they must endure extra wear and tear.
4. Recycled Rubber Flooring
This is an even greener alternative and this type of flooring uses recycled materials from utilized tires to make it. In addition to offering the environment a safe alternative to traditional rubber flooring, this method is highly sustainable. They are used at outside walkways and playgrounds.
Eco-Friendly Aspects of Rubber Flooring
With sustainability becoming the first concern of homeowners, businesses, contractors, etc. All would want flooring options that have positive contributions toward the green world. Rubber flooring is a great eco-friendly option for the following reasons:
1. Recycled Material
Out of the recycled materials that are a major advantage, rubber flooring is made of ground rubber discarded from used tyres. Millions of tyres that crash into landfills every year, they turn into durable and high performing material. As such, the environmental burden of the flooring is also reduced while increasing the sustainability of the construction.
2. Long-lasting and Durable
The more time it can stay, the more sustainable the construction will be, helping reduce the waste generated from flooring replacement projects. Hence, rubber flooring provides your space with durability as well as saves you from replacement costs.
3. Low Maintenance and Non-Toxic
Except for passive cleaning, which constitutes ordinary cleaning to keep rubber flooring in optimum shape, it is quite easy to maintain this kind of flooring. Long-lasting, unlike vinyl or other synthetic material, rubber does not emit harmful airborne emissions, which gives environmental safety and health concerns in the future. Therefore, it is safer and healthier for your home or office.
Maintenance and Care of Rubber Floor
These two are what make rubber floors so durable and low-maintenance. Proper maintenance extends the life and appearance of the floor. Here are some tips to maintain your rubber flooring:
1. Regular Sweeping and Vacuuming
Dust and dirt can build up over time. To prevent scratching of the surface, floors should be regularly swept or vacuumed. One should not use beater bar vacuums as they can damage the flooring. Therefore, vacuuming should be done by using normal vacuums.
2. Mopping Using Mild Cleaner
Rubber floors can be cleaned easily with damp mops and mild detergents. Harsh chemicals should be avoided, as they can either degrade the rubber or leave residues. Remember to dry the floor after the cleaning process to prevent potential damage caused by water.
3. Don’t Allow Heavy Objects to Ruin It
Although rubber flooring is not easily dented or scratched, very heavy machinery will eventually leave marks on it. It is advisable to use either mats or protective pads under heavy furniture to protect the floor.
4. Tackling Stains
Use a specific rubber cleaner or a degreaser, for stubborn stains from grease or oil. Be sure to always check it on a small area that is not visible before cleaning the entire floor. This checking helps the cleaner won’t cause any damage or discoloration to the rubber surface.
Conclusion
Rubber flooring is an excellent choice for all kinds of rooms due to its durability, safety features, and sustainability. Be it a home, gym, high-traffic commercial spaces, or simply seeking eco-friendly flooring, rubber flooring gives the balance between function and style. With proper maintenance and care, rubber floors can last decades, which is definitely a good return on investment.
If you are ready to transform your space, start exploring possibilities now! Check out your local floor store or look online for various styles and options.