Rubber flooring is the best option for gyms and other athletic applications because of its stability and durability. The main characteristics of athletic rubber flooring are determined by whether the rubber is recycled or vulcanized. Most rubber flooring is made from one of these two types of rubber, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.
This article explores the differences between recycled tire rubber flooring and vulcanized rubber flooring and how the production of each type determines its characteristics.
Vulcanized Rubber Flooring
Vulcanized rubber flooring is produced using a process called vulcanization. It involves adding a curative to raw rubber materials that are heated to high temperatures and then molded and compressed under high pressure to shape the rubber.
Peroxides, metallic oxides, and sulfur are the curatives used to vulcanize rubber. These curatives modify the rubber by forming cross-linking structures between the polymer chains, making it more durable. Flooring is one of many rubber products manufactured using vulcanization. Some of our top vulcanized rubber flooring products include:
Devulcanization
More rubber materials are used for the production of tires than for any other product, and most tires are vulcanized. When tires are recycled, they are broken down using a process called devulcanization. In devulcanization, vulcanized rubber is broken down into its raw rubber materials. These devulcanized materials can be used as is for some rubber products, but for many products, they must be revulcanized to manufacture the new product.
Revulcanization
Revulcanization is the process of vulcanizing rubber that was vulcanized and then devulcanized. Revulcanized rubber has essentially the same qualities as rubber that has been vulcanized for the first time, and it is used for a wide range of products, including athletic flooring.
Advantages of Vulcanized Rubber Flooring
The vulcanization process gives vulcanized athletic rubber flooring many advantages, including:
Recycled Rubber Flooring
Recycled rubber flooring is made from the raw rubber materials that are left from the devulcanization process. This type of flooring does not go through the vulcanization process again, as the raw rubber materials, also called crumb rubber, are distilled, sometimes multiple times, to remove all non-rubber materials. Once the crumb rubber is distilled, it is blended with a binder, color admixture, and binding catalysts to create a mixture that is then pressurized to form a rubber surface. Recycled rubber surfaces are less dense and softer than vulcanized rubber flooring.
Beyond the characteristics of recycled rubber flooring, it has its strengths and weaknesses. Here are some weaknesses:
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some common questions about rubber flooring for sports facilities:
How Long Does Vulcanized Rubber Last Under Heavy Use?
Vulcanized rubber is more resistant to wear than raw rubber. However, proper installation and maintenance can extend the rubber's lifespan over time.
What Is the Recommended Cleaning and Maintenance Routine for Vulcanized Rubber?
To get the most out of your vulcanized rubber flooring, conduct daily maintenance. This involves removing dust, dirt and stains from the floor with a broom, a damp cloth or a mop. If you need to use detergents, ensure you use pH-neutral products and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Can Vulcanized Rubber Be Installed Over Existing Flooring?
Yes, vulcanized rubber can be installed over existing flooring, but you need to make sure the floor is in good condition. Before installation, it should be clean, level and dry to ensure there are no imperfections.
Is Vulcanized Rubber Flooring Safe for Athletes?
Sports facilities in schools and fitness centers choose vulcanized rubber flooring because it is safe for athletic activities. It is slip-resistant, even when wet, and absorbs shocks, making it a good choice for environments with heavy weights and lots of movement. Furthermore, because it is nonporous, it resists the build up of bacteria, mold and moisture.
What Colors Do Vulcanized Rubber Floors Come In?
Sports flooring made of vulcanized rubber can come in a range of colors and textures to match the rest of your facility and support design cohesion.
Vulcanized Sport Impact Flooring From MONDO
When considering rubber vs. vulcanized rubber flooring, vulcanized rubber flooring comes out on top. The characteristics of vulcanized rubber flooring prove them to be more durable, longer-lasting, easier to maintain and, due to their nonporous surface, safer for athletes.
Our Sportflex M vulcanized rubber flooring option stands out because it contains at least 20% recycled rubber and more than 6% materials from renewable sources. Furthermore, the surface layer of Sportflex M has natural bacterial-resistant properties without the inclusion of biocides in the product.
Contact MONDO to learn more about our vulcanized rubber sports flooring options.