Whether rubber is used as your home gym floor, playground surface, or commercial facility flooring, none of these surfaces are completely maintenance-free.
Like any other type of floor, learning how to maintain your rubber surfacing is important to ensure that it looks its best and performs at its highest level.
There are a few simple things you can do on a regular basis to keep your rubber flooring looking vibrant and staying durable for years to come:
1. Sweep or vacuum the surface regularly to remove any debris
Debris such as dirt, dust, sand, leaves, and gravel can cause wear and tear on your rubber flooring over time.
To prevent this, sweep or vacuum the surface regularly to remove any debris.
It's as simple as passing a broom, dust mop, or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment over your indoor or outdoor flooring.
Soft-bristled brushes can also be used to clean any stubborn dirt or stains.
Be sure to go over the entire surface, including under any equipment or furniture.
Regular sweeping and vacuuming also helps prevent slips and falls by removing any dust or dirt that may cause people to lose their footing.
2. Hose it down occasionally to remove any built-up
After removing the debris with a broom or vacuum, you may also want to hose it down to remove any built-up dirt or grime.
If you plan on using a pressure washer, avoid high settings because high-pressure water can damage the material. Instead, opt for a low-pressure setting and hold the wand about two feet away from the surface.
Be sure to dry the surface completely after hosing it down to prevent slips.
3. Clean spills as soon as possible
Whether your rubber surface is indoors or outdoors, make sure to clean any spills as soon as possible.
Outdoor rubber surfaces, like those on playgrounds, can be hard to keep clean. Gum, chemicals, glue, and other unwanted substances can end up on the surface and should be removed immediately in order to keep your rubber looking bright and inviting for as long as possible.
Fortunately, cleaning spills on rubber isn't as complicated as it sounds. Simply use a paper towel or cloth to soak up the spill, then apply soap or detergent and wash with warm water.
Be sure to use a non-abrasive cleaner and avoid any harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of the rubber. Of course, read the labels carefully and follow their instructions.
Once the spill is cleaned up, dry the area completely.
By following these simple tips, you can grasp how to maintain your rubber surfacing and keep it looking its best for years to come. For more information on rubber surfacing and its many uses, check out the Mark Tool & Rubber blog.