Installing Rubber Floors

There is much to consider before you install rubber floors. The type of floor you’re installing dictates the type of installation required and the overall ease of the process. Whether you’re doing the installation yourself or having a professional take care of the job for you, you should know what to expect. By properly preparing for your installation, you can ensure that everything will go smoothly and that you’ll be very satisfied with your new rubber floors.

Different Installation Techniques

Depending on the rubber flooring you choose, there are four ways to install them:

Glued Down Sheet Rubber: You can glue down sheet rubber using a full spread adhesive. Double-sided flooring tape may also be an option for certain applications, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.

Glued Down Rubber Tiles:

You can glue down rubber tiles with a polyurethane flooring adhesive or an epoxy.

Interlocking Rubber Tiles:

These tiles fit together and “lock” to form a loose-lay floor. Double-sided flooring tape may be an option for these as well, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.

Dowel Secured Rubber Tiles:

These tiles fit together but are secured in place with dowels. If the installation area does not have surrounding walls, it may be possible to secure the perimeter tiles in place with a full spread adhesive.

Prep the Site

Rubber floors can generally be installed above existing flooring as long as it can completely adhere to it. Make sure your subfloor is dry, smooth, level and free from imperfections. Clean it thoroughly and sweep or vacuum to remove dust, dirt, or any other material that can prevent the new rubber from properly adhering to the subfloor.

Regulate the Temperature

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding room temperature both before and after installation. Generally the floor covering, adhesive, and room temperature must be kept within a temperature range of 65°F to 100°F for at least 48 hours before and 48 hours after installation. Before you start, make sure you allow enough time for the rubber to acclimate to the installation area.

Make Sure You Have the Correct Products

Make sure that you have the products and that all color and style numbers match. The sooner you spot an error, the sooner you can order replacement flooring. You want to ensure that there are even color transitions between rolls. When using rubber tiles, you should mix the boxes to evenly distribute color variations.

Don’t Walk On It Right Away

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the adhesive to cure. Too much traffic on the floor immediately after installation can cause gaps to appear in the seams.

If you’re ready to purchase rubber flooring today, call America’s Floor Source at 877-237-2317 or use our contact us form.