Rubber Flooring
Newer homes have flooring options that weren't available in the past. Now you can choose to use rubber flooring, as well as some other newer options. Laminate flooring and vinyl flooring are inexpensive choices, but you'll be surprised that rubber flooring can beat them both when you factor in durability.
Alessco Inc Soft Woods with Corner/Border - Dark Oak
This beautiful rubber flooring can
be installed without glue, and is only
$2.44 / sq ft. The tiles are available
in Light Oak, as well as in 11 solid colors. Click for more details.
What is Rubber Flooring?
Obviously rubber flooring is made from rubber. You can find rubber flooring in nearly any shape and size -- as tiles or sheets. There are also rubber pads that can be laid over an existing floor.
Benefits of Rubber Flooring
The main benefit of rubber flooring is that it makes the floor springy. It can help reduce the possibility of injuries from standing in one place for long periods. It also reduces static electricity and bacteria, which makes it a great choice if you have small children. Because of its springiness, they won't be injured as easily if they fall.
Alessco Inc Jumbo Reversible
Nice for a rec room at $2.00 / sq ft. Use alternating colors for a checkerboard look. Also available in Gray / Black.
Which Type Do I Get?
Choosing the type of rubber flooring depends on where you plan to use it, and the look you’re going for. Since you can find it in a variety of colors, you can create a solid floor, or a traditional checkerboard of rubber floor tiles, if you’d like. It's a great choice for high traffic areas and rooms with heavy furniture.
Where Can I Find Rubber Flooring?
If you’re considering rubber flooring, you may have to do a bit of research. Start with the local flooring stores and ask them if they have any. If not, ask them if they know where you can find it. Online is also another place to look when searching.
Ultimate Comfort Foam Flooring
This is a bit gym-floorish, but it's the cheapest, at only $1.73 / sq ft. Also comes in a 4-color package at $1.81
How Much Is It?
The initial outlay needed to buy and install rubber flooring may seem a little steep, usually between $3 and $10 per square foot. The cost over the life of the flooring more than makes up for the initial price paid. It is extremely durable and easy to care for.
Can I Install It Myself?
If you are reasonably competent at do-it-your-self projects, there shouldn’t be any problem in completing this one. You’ll want to start with a perfectly smooth subfloor finish or the adhesive won’t work. Most manufacturers provide a fitting guide to make installing it easier for homeowners.
Bounce Back - 3 Feet Fall
This rubber floor tile is just the thing for children's rooms. Made from recycled tires, it's available in 3 other colors, and sells for $6.04 / sq ft. A bit expensive, but it should last until long after your kids are grown.
How Do I Care for It?
Besides looking great and feeling great on your feet and legs, rubber flooring is easy to maintain. If cared for properly, with regular sweeping and occasional mopping, you can expect your floors to last for many years. Of course, you’ll want to check the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
If you’re looking for a floor that is easy to maintain and will last a long time, rubber flooring may be the perfect choice. It can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, children’s room, or anyplace there’s heavy traffic. Take a look at rubber flooring and see if it isn’t the right choice for your home.
Ezra says: I did a lot of research on the internet, looking for sources of rubber flooring that didn't look like a gym. The links above are the best cheap rubber flooring I could find in the U.S. In Great Britain, rubber floors have been popular for a longer time. Here are some photos to show you what a rubber floor can look like if installed creatively.
Rubber flooring is popular
in academic settings
www.materialproject.org
Even a gym floor pattern
can sometimes look good
www.polymax.co.uk
Rubber flooring can be
used to create patterns
www.materialproject.org
See our new video about rubber flooring on the Video Page.
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