WOOD ATHLETIC-FLOORING ASSEMBLIES
Wood-flooring surfaces for athletic-flooring assemblies are usually hard Maple or Oak flooring. Structural floor systems are generally concrete slabs. Subfloor systems for athletic-flooring have various shock-absorbing, energy-rebounding, and sound- deadening characteristics.
Sub-Floor Systems Common subfloor systems include the following: 1. Floating systems use resilient pads of rubber, neoprene, or PVC; or foam underlayment. Resilient pads isolate athletic-flooring assemblies from the supporting slab and allow ventilation. Foam underlayment isolates the athletic-flooring assemblies from the supporting slab but does not provide ventilation space.
Sub-Floor Systems 2. Fixed-sleeper systems include wood sleepers or metal channels mechanically fastened to the supporting slab. Wood sleepers are installed with or without subflooring and allow under floor ventilation. Metal channel systems have low profiles and do not allow underfloor ventilation.
PRODUCT SELECTION CONSIDERATIONS Many types of wood-flooring assemblies are available for use in areas where athletic activities occur. The type selected for an installation depends on: the activity the project budget code requirements
Floors for roller skating rinks must be stable and durable. Aerobic exercise requires flooring that absorbs impact, to prevent shin splints, and that returns enough energy to users’ legs, to prevent excessive muscle fatigue. For basketball and volleyball, shock absorption and ball bounce are critical characteristics. Floors for roller skating rinks must be stable and durable.
FINISH SYSTEMS Sealers: Provide good penetration with slight surface film. Heavy Duty Finishes: Provide adequate penetration and some surface-film buildup.. Gymnasium Type (Surface) Finishes: Provide little penetration and good surface-film buildup. Intended for maximum service under heavy traffic. Water-Based Finishes: Nonflammable and low odor. Provide adequate penetration and surface- film buildup.