How To Install Rubber Flooring
Rubber flooring is a tough and resilient material which can withstand years of wear and tear. Popular in both residential and commercial settings, you might want to use rubber flooring for your gym, garage, basement or any other area which requires a quality, non-slip surface. This type of floor is also shock and sound absorbent, which is useful in busy, high-traffic areas. If you’re hoping to do a DIY installation of rubber flooring, then you’ll need to be well-prepared. The good news is that by following our top tips, you’ll be rewarded with a level and seamless finish to your flooring installation.
Step 1: Gathering The Materials For Your Rubber Flooring Project
Rubber flooring comes in various types, including rolls, tiles and interlocking mats. Although there are some minor differences in the way you lay your flooring to achieve a well-bonded even finish, the following materials are useful in most installations.
- Rubber flooring of choice
- Heavy duty double-sided tape
- Utility knife
- Cleaning materials including mop and brush
- Chalk
- Straight edge tool
- Carpet roller
Step 2: Pre-Installation Prep Work
Once you have assembled your materials, the next step of your rubber floor installation project is to start with a simple clean. You’ll need to remove any dirt or debris from the area to prevent it from causing problems with the adhesive. Any moisture from spills or grease should be mopped up entirely from the existing floor area and this should be allowed to dry out before installation.
If you are using rubber flooring which comes in a roll, then now would be a good time to remove this from the packaging and encourage it to flatten out by using weights on each corner. If you’re using tiles or rubber stud flooring, then you can skip this step.
Be aware that rubber flooring can be applied directly to a concrete or other smooth sub-floor with no underlay required, but if your concrete is fresh, then this should be allowed to dry out for a few weeks beforehand. If your sub-floor is uneven, then you may wish to use a levelling compound first, as this will provide a better finish for your rubber flooring.
Step 3: Loose Laying Your Rubber Flooring
Once you have thoroughly prepared the area, the next step is to loose-lay your flooring across the room, without using an adhesive at this stage. If you’re using a rubber roll, then simply roll out from one end of the wall. You can roughly cut the pieces to size, and mark any overhang with the chalk, which you can trim more precisely later on using your utility knife.
Step 4: Bonding Your Rubber Flooring
Once you have mapped out your rubber flooring plan and are confident that you have all the pieces necessary to complete your installation, it’s time to apply heavy duty double-sided tape to the room. Mark this around the entire perimeter of your room but leave the release tape for now. If you’re using tiles rather than a roll, then be sure to add strips of tape for each tile you need to place into position.
Once your adhesive is laid, remove the release tape and press your rubber flooring into place, ensuring that you follow the product instructions on the packet which will usually have the shiny surface facing upwards. It’s important that you place the flooring onto the tape rather than allowing it to fall into position. Next, you must apply firm pressure to the rubber to remove any hint of a lump or bubble beneath.
Any adjoining pieces of flooring must sit flush to each other, and you can use your straight edge tool to ensure a perfect finish.
Step 5: Rolling The Finished Installation
Once you’re happy that each piece of rubber flooring is in place, leave it to rest for an hour or so. This will give the adhesive chance to set in place. You must then use your carpet roller to work over the top of your flooring, and repeat this step at 75 and 90 minutes. It’s best to use the carpet roller both widthways and lengthways and take extra care not to shift the installation during this final step.
Best Selling Rubber Flooring Products
1. Flatline Black Rubber Gym Flooring 1m x 1m x 20mm
2. Flatline BeFit Black Rubber Gym Flooring 1m x 50cm x 20mm
3. 30mm Luna 2nd Edition Series Rubber Floor Mats
4. Flatline BeFit Grey Rubber Gym Flooring 1m x 50cm x 20mm
5. Rubber Gym Flooring 1m x 1m x 30mm Flatline Black
Frequently Asked Question’s
How is rubber flooring installed?
The precise step-by-step process for your rubber installation will depend on the product you’re using. Cannons UK provide a wide variety of rubber flooring including rolls, tiles and interlocking mats. In most cases, the best way to install your flooring is to measure up, apply a strong adhesive to the area then position your rubber carefully into place. Once you’ve trimmed any excess rubber, you can then firmly press the flooring down ensuring that all joins sit flush. Working a carpet roller over the top of the installation will ensure a strong and even surface area.
Can rubber flooring get wet?
Rubber flooring is an excellent choice of material in terms of safety. It’s naturally waterproof which means that even if spillages occur on your rubber floor, you can expect to have some protection from slipping. This is one of the main reasons why rubber flooring is a popular alternative to PVC. There are other safety benefits to rubber flooring too, including the fact that it is fire-resistant, shock-proof and non-toxic.
It’s worth noting that although the rubber flooring itself is waterproof, the joins between tiles or pieces of flooring will still allow any excess water to seep through. Therefore, if you’re planning to use rubber flooring in a water-heavy environment, then it’s best to include a waterproof membrane beneath the installation.
Is rubber flooring good for gyms?
Rubber flooring is a cost-effective and versatile way to kit out either a home gym or a commercial fitness business. When you’re working out, you’ll want to be safe in the knowledge that the ground beneath you can withstand the shock of a high-impact HIIT session, heavy weights being dropped, or bulky cardio equipment being placed on it. Being anti-slip and waterproof, rubber flooring is the ideal surface for any type of gym environment. Sweat and excess moisture can be effortlessly wiped away using a damp mop and it’s naturally odour-resistant too.