When choosing an indoor sports flooring, it is important to consider the functionality and the value of the material. For calculating the latter, you should include the prices of installation and maintenance during its lifespan. Besides that, it is important to consider the safety & performance of the athlete. Deciding on a floor solution that fits your facility is very crucial. Therefore, we will share useful guidelines to help you select the best option.
How to Choose Indoor Sports Flooring?
Gym flooring must have a strong & durable surface to endure heavy foot traffic as well as support heavy objects & equipment. However, different flooring materials have their own characteristics. Below are some crucial things to consider when you choose new sports floor, especially indoor area.
Elasticity Properties
In relation to sports floor, elasticity is very critical. When it comes to elasticity, you can find so many types of floors, each floor excelling in different area. For your information, elasticity relates area point elastic, area elastic, mixed elastic, as well as combined elastic. The electricity properties of the floor directly impact the comfort & performance of athletes.
Key Performance Features
Different types of sports floors have different specific performance features in vertical deformation, friction, and shock absorption ability. Regarding to this, different sports may require different performance features.
Price
We all know that most facility operators work on a low budget. So, when it comes to sports flooring, they have to choose the floor by considering many aspects. The price of the floor is directly tied to the performance and longevity of the floor. That’s why it is important to achieve the right balance between these aspects to get the best value, especially for money.
Subfloor
Mostly, types of flooring require a subfloor. So, directly installing the floor on the concrete slab is not a viable solution for most floors because it causes the slab prone to damage. Even though it doesn’t belong to the visible part of the court, the subfloor can make a significant difference in the performance characteristics.
Find the Best Indoor Sports Flooring!
When selecting the best flooring for indoor sports, you have to consider what sports will be played there. Some floor surfaces are better for certain sports while some others may serve as universal solutions. Now, let’s see the most popular types of floors for sports and their uses!
Hardwood
Timber or hardwood is the traditional option for sports floor as it offers epic durability for any kind of indoor sports & school activities. Even though oak costs less, maple is the toughest one, making it more popular.
Even though its hard surface is not appropriate for indoor football and gymnastics, timber is more ideal for badminton, netball, and basketball.
Sports hall with a hardwood floor looks classic. If you look after it properly, hardwood can last for decades. You may need to replace the lacquer every ten years. Anyway, this is the only maintenance required other than cleaning.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane belongs to the best indoor sports flooring as it offers better durability compared to similar playing characteristics.
But compared to timber flooring, it has more cushioning, making it better to reduce the injury risk. In addition, it has no varnish coming off to reduce maintenance.
Now, most school sports halls use polyurethane floors unless they want the classical look of a timber floor.
Anyway, polyurethane can be a modern alternative to hardwood as it is arguably more durable. We know that it lacks a classical look but some people prefer the seamless look of a good polyurethane flooring.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a good alternative to polyurethane where certain sports need a specialized elasticity. For your information, vinyl floors can be firmer or softer. Besides that, it is as durable as polyurethane & it is a similar cost. So, which is better for you will depend on the need of a specific elasticity.
You have to note that vinyl is less durable compared to polyurethane. However, it is more suitable for specific sports with adjustable point elastic performance. In addition, it is more affordable compared to polyurethane. Moreover, it requires replacing sooner. Anyway, it still becomes a good choice in a designated sports zone.
For your information, this floor can last about 10 years with intense use. So, it is durable enough for parents evenings, assemblies, extra curriculums school activities, etc. One more thing, it is budget friendly and comes in different colors. Overall, it is not as great as polyurethane. However, it is more inexpensive.
Rubber Floor
Rubber floor Is completely recyclable, affordable, and easy to install. Besides that, it becomes a prevalent option among facility operators. Because it is water resistant, rubber is effortless to maintain. In addition, it is also a high moisture tolerance.
Most importantly, it provides consistent performance and is very durable, making it a perfect option for areas with heavy foot traffic or sports like weightlifting. Commonly, there 3 types of sport flooring with rubber including rubber tiles, mats, and rolls.
Best Flooring Materials for Different Indoor Sports
The most suitable flooring depends on the sport itself. Below, we will break it down.
Gym/Fitness Flooring
Fitness or gym flooring must be comfortable to run and walk on. Besides that, it should be durable to withstand constant impact & heavy weights. In addition, it must contain anti-slip properties. Rubber flooring is the most popular option but you can consider vinyl flooring for a cheaper alternative.
Volleyball/Netball/Basketball Flooring
These sports involve similar movements & actions. Of course, the best choice is hard maple due to its durability & lightness. Even more, it makes the ball easy to see. Then, the hardwood subfloor will be helpful for absorption & vibration control. If you want a more affordable option, you can use epoxy.
Indoor Futsal/Cricket
When it comes to cricket or futsal, the best material for indoor sports flooring is same with other indoor sports. However, you can opt for synthetic grass made from nylon or plastic. Another alternative is vinyl because it is more inexpensive than synthetic grass.
Well, if you need some help to find the best flooring for indoor sports, don’t forget to call Jati Luhur Agung as your solution.
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- By:PT. Jati Luhur Agung
- Tags: hardwood flooring, polyurethane flooring, rubber flooring, vinyl flooring
- Category: Sports Floor
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