Owning a beautiful house with a sprawling backyard in the rear and a curvy, long driveway in the front is a dream seen by many and yet achieved by a few. And even though a majority of our populations are making high-rises and apartment buildings their residence today — the charm of townhouses remains just as influential.

However, it might not be as easy to maintain its external appearance as you thought it was.

After all, taking care of the garden and the house are expected activities that we all engage in, but what about the driveway?

Shared in this blog are some top essential tips that you can use to repair that damaged pathway that had gone unseen till date.

Tips To Repair The Broken and Damaged Driveway

There can be several different ways of repairing the concrete driveway, depending on who you ask. Discussed below are some such ideas tried and tested by various experts over the years.

Repairing Cracks Less than Half an Inch in Size

Although the average lifespan of concrete is twenty to twenty-five years, it is not a far-off thought that it may also be susceptible to regular wear and tear. In case you find small cracks appearing therein that is less than half an inch wide and deep individually, you might just have caught the detrition early on.

So clap yourself on the back and get to work with a concrete crack filler and a caulking gun. Both of these items can be easily found in your nearest Home Depot.

While choosing the crack filler, keep in mind that you choose a product that has a flexible formulation. This is important so that it doesn’t pull away from the old concrete in colder temperatures.

Repairing Wider and Deeper Cracks

When the cracks appearing are wider than half an inch, they are usually deeper as well compared to the smaller fractures we addressed above. That also means that the crack filler alone will not be able to help. A foam concrete-backer rod is required along with said filler to properly and adequately plug the split.

This rod is first inserted into the crack and only then the aforementioned sealant is poured in. This allows for the filler to settle into the rift instead of sinking away.

Rectifying Drainage Issues

Drainage issues may not be as common as the cracks we just talked about, but they aren’t a rare sighting by any means either. And one of the most prominent signs of a driveway being damaged due to this is when you can see rainwater pooling in an area of this path. While this just might be the beginning, if left untreated, this may lead to the creation of potholes on your driveway.

To rectify the damage thus caused, a simple installation of strip drains or replacement of the pipes used in the existing drainage system is a perfectly acceptable solution. However, if the debilitation is severe, replacement might be your best option.

Removing Grease and Oil Stains

A driveway is a place where staining is never even thought of as a problem. After all, it’s not inside the house!

But it is also a place that can get stained quite easily. For tough stains left behind by oil and grease, all you need to do is use a strong cleaner on the spot. Rub some of it on the area you’re trying to clean and leave it on for a couple of weeks or as instructed by the manufacturer. Post that stipulated time, you can simply scrub it off or rinse it with water to uncover a spick-and-span driveway.

Closing Thoughts

Ultimately, what you’re looking for is a driveway that complements the beauty of your house and not deduct from it. And the only two ways of ensuring that once your existing pathway is already damaged is either repair or replacement. You can also consider the option of switching from concrete to other alternatives available like gravel, rubber surface, and more, which can offer easier driveway repair options.

Choose wisely!

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I choose to replace the driveway over repairing it?

If the damage to your driveway is extensive with a wide network of cracks spreading all over, an increasing number of potholes making an appearance, or similar, it might just be the better option to replace the entire concrete driveway instead of engaging in small repair work. You can also take a professional’s opinion in case you’re confused about the next step.

What to do in case of a spalling driveway?

Although there are some repair options available for a spalling driveway, they might not last long due to the damage already done to the structure. Replacement is the best alternative in such a case.

What are the top alternatives for constructing a driveway?

Some frequently chosen alternatives for a concrete driveway include brick, different kinds of gravel, marble chips, and cobblestone.

Ever heard of a rubber surface? Would you like to install a rubber surface on your business premises? If yes, you should always remember that any decision that is made in haste might prove to be quite costly in the end.

Hence, while going through the procedure of installing a rubber surface, it is essential to take necessary precautions and measure all possible risks.

In this article, we will go through a list of questions that should be asked from the rubber surface contractor before starting the process of installation.

1. Do you have a company website, blog, and social media page?

Before you jump in and hire the first rubber surface installer, it is always wise to do online research. Check whether they have a company website, blog, and social media page.

The website will tell you a lot about their history, service quality, expertise, and clients. You can decide from here whether or not you can trust the installer.

Blogs are a great place to weigh the expertise of a company. Their content will reveal whether the service they are offering will address your pain points. It will also help you make an informed decision.

A company’s social media page is where you can find out how the company interacts with and engages its customers. You want to work with a firm that replies promptly to queries and addresses concerns.

2. Can you tell me about your experience?

Though it is crucial, experience is not only about the years of service a company has provided. You want to analyze their quality of work and see whether or not they have previously worked on a project similar to yours.

A good and experienced surfacing firm will have lots of happy customers and a large social following. Look for client case studies and the types of projects they have completed.

Ideally, they will share pictures and videos of their completed projects. You should ask for references prior to signing up for a project.

3. Can I get a free estimate?

The process of rubber flooring estimate involves evaluating the surface condition, measurement, and checking for any signs of moisture. Many surface installers do this for free. You want your prospective installer to do the evaluation work for free.

4. What subfloors are suitable for rubber surfacing?

Rubber surfacing installation needs a subfloor so as to protect the surface beneath. And the subfloor has to be even. Rubber surfaces are installed on different subfloors, including concrete, tarmac, wood, crushed stone, sand, aluminum, steel, and carpet. You need to talk with your installer concerning this prior to assigning the project.

5. What is the perfect rubber surfacing thickness?

Knowing the right thickness of rubber flooring to use is crucial. It will depend on its use. If you are installing a rubber surface in your home gym, a thin rubber surface will work just fine. But for outdoor playgrounds, the play structure fall height is to be considered. Your potential expert will know the accurate thickness. So, ask your expert outright about it.

6. How much time does it take to install rubber flooring?

The time taken to install a rubber floor depends on many factors. You have to consider all factors like the subfloor type, surface condition, area to be covered, and rubber flooring thickness. Typically, it takes two days. But then it all comes down to the schedule and availability of the experts.

Knowing this will help you prepare for the downtime of your house.

7. Is there a warranty for the rubber flooring?

Reputed flooring installers usually offer a warranty of 5 years apart from boasting of the quality of the product they are offering.

8. Can rubber surfacing help build an elderly-friendly home?

Rubber has shock-absorbing and anti-slip properties. Plus, they offer a softer surface as compared to concrete. Thus, rubber surfaces can lessen the impact of surface injuries. It is ideal for a home with older people. It is even ADA-complaint.

9. Are rubber floors durable?

Yes, rubber floors can last up to a good 12 to 15 years, provided you follow the rubber flooring maintenance tips offered by your experts.

Wrap-Up

This article looked at questions you should ask of a rubber surface installer before signing on for a project. Depending on the surface, specific procedures and practices should be followed. Asking questions during your search will help you prevent making mistakes, increase the odds of success, and ultimately help you find the right contractor for your project.

Statistics show that nearly 79% of playground injuries involve falls. A rubber floor can certainly reduce the impact of the fall due to its anti-skid and shock-absorbing properties. This is the reason rubber surfacing is becoming a popular flooring choice, not just for playgrounds but also for other public and residential facilities.

Although it is tough and hard-wearing, a rubber surface needs a little care and attention.

So, let’s discuss some simple and easy-to-follow cleaning and maintenance tips to keep your rubber floors in good condition for years to come.

What is Rubber Surfacing?

Have you noticed a soft surface underneath your feet at gyms or pool decks?

Yes, that is a rubber surface. It is one of the most durable and multipurpose flooring solutions available today. A rubber floor is crafted from natural or synthetic rubber. Hence, it absorbs the shocks and provides good traction.

Due to the above qualities, rubber surfaces are an ideal choice in high footfall places such as fitness/sports facilities, hotels & resorts, and playgrounds. It is also becoming popular among residential properties.

Rubber surfacing is an investment that will last longer if you take basic care of its cleaning and maintenance. Let’s find out how.

Cleaning Materials

You do not need to spend much on the cleaning materials for your rubber floors. You will need basics cleaning supplies:

• Vacuum cleaner or broom
• Mop and bucket
• Cleaning sponge
• Mild detergent

Set Up a Cleaning Routine

There’s no extra work. Trust us! You would anyway maintain a cleaning routine for your floor whether it is made from rubber, concrete, or any other material.

Similarly, for rubber surfaces, we recommend that you set up two different cleaning schedules.

Daily or Weekly Cleaning

If you have installed a rubber surface in the residential facility, one of the most frequent cleaning tasks you need to do is removing small particles of dirt, dust, and debris. In case you have toddlers, daily vacuuming can save them from the risk of ingesting these impurities. Otherwise, you can vacuum and mop the floor once a week if your floors tend to attract fewer dirt particles.

However, commercial settings and public facilities’ rubber floors should be vacuumed and mopped daily as they experience higher footfall and contamination. For mopping, consider a mild detergent diluted in water.

Periodic Cleaning

Just like you conduct seasonal cleaning of your home or workspace, you can consider a wet vacuum cleaning once every month or two for your rubber surfaces. Start with mopping and let the cleaning solution sit for about 10 minutes. Then, rinse the floor with a wet vacuum.

For better cleaning of large spaces, we recommend that you use a floor cleaning machine. A walk-behind scrubber should be adequate for medium-large areas such as pool decks, gyms, and sports courts. However, for larger spaces like driveways, playgrounds, stables, and barns, you should use a ride-on scrubber.

Moreover, you should deep clean the surface using a pressurized water process after three to five years of installation.

Maintenance Tips for Rubber Surfaces

How about retaining the aesthetics and adding more years to the life of your rubber surface? Read and follow the maintenance tips below.

• Use dust control mats: Place doormats at entries of your residence or commercial facilities to avoid the accumulation of dirt and dust particles on your rubber surface.
• Clean all spills: Though rubber flooring is water-resistant, too much moisture can affect its adhesive property. So ensure that you clean spillages at the earliest.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Chemicals can erode the rubber and its color. Besides, the rubber surface is very easy to clean. Simply using a mild detergent diluted in a little bit of water should do the trick.
• Use soft nylon brushes: Do not use steel wool, abrasive brushes & pads.
• Outdoor surfaces: Install UV-stable rubber flooring, and during winter use snow shovels with plastic blades.

In addition to the above cleaning and maintenance tips, we also recommend you follow the maintenance guide provided by the manufacturer.

Wrapping Up

As we discussed, rubber surfaces are highly durable and low maintenance in nature. This makes them a worthy long-term investment for your property. All you need to do is evaluate the area where you have installed them and accordingly follow the simple cleaning and maintenance tips shared above. It should be enough to preserve them for a longer period of time.

Are you planning to install a running track surface? The type of surface you install is going to make all the difference for runners.

The track can impact speed, improve your balance, and even improve your technique. Moreover, installing a suitable running track surface can minimize injuries during the run.

Since there are so many types of running track surfaces out there, each with its advantages and disadvantages, the choosing process can get quite overwhelming, especially if you are installing it for the first time.

This essential guide will help you to select the best running track surface as per your needs. However, before that, ask yourself these questions:

• What are my facility’s requirements?
• What sports program level do I aim to hold?
• Will I use the running track for competition or recreation?
• Who will be running on the track?

But generally, you should prioritize safety and performance.

Choosing the Best Running Track Surface

To help you make the best choice, here are the different types of running track surfaces with their pros and cons:

1. Cinder, clay, and grass

Cinder and clay are natural track surfaces most commonly used. Sometimes, even grass is used.

Pros

• These surfaces are comfortable to run on and comparatively cheap to construct.
• These types of surfaces will have reduced force impact on runners’ joints.
• Since these surfaces are soft, they offer great cushioning and lessen injuries.
• Compared to other surfaces, they create more resistance. It means legs will have to work harder. It strengthens foot muscles while enhancing running techniques.

Cons

• These surfaces are rendered useless after the rainfall.
• They are high maintenance and costly.

2. Synthetic rubber surfaces

Many people install synthetic rubber on running tracks as it provides optimal traction and great running performance.

The two prevalent subtypes of this running track are latex track surfaces and polyurethane track surfaces.

Latex track surfaces offer a soft surface, making it easier to run. It allows runners to run faster and enhances performance and durability in the sport. It also provides safety and is permeable.

On the other hand, polyurethane track surfaces are elastic and can withstand extreme temperatures, making them suitable for outdoors.

The surface allows for a more comfortable run, thus reducing the risk for injuries. It also increases speed and stability as it is firm. Polyurethane track surfaces are impermeable.

Pros

• Synthetic surfaces create a fast and high-performing track and increase runners’ speed.
• It provides excellent shock absorption and cushioning, decreasing the risk of injury.
• It absorbs impact while reducing muscle stress and supporting leg exertion.
• It is incredibly durable and can last up to 20 years or more. Synthetic surfaces also require very little maintenance.

Cons

• While installing synthetic rubber surfaces initially, you will have to undergo many small details. It needs proper planning.
• You will have to create an initial flat base surface of gravel or crushed stone to allow for drainage.

3. Asphalt-bound surfaces

The asphalt-bound surfaces are also known as all-weather surfaces. They are a mixture of asphalt and rubber or sand.

Though people still commonly use asphalt-bound tracks, they are no longer widely built as the material is costly and the surface is unpredictable.

Pros

• The asphalt-bound tracks are durable.
• The tracks allow fast speed and let runners maintain a steady rhythm.

Cons 

• Asphalt-bound tracks become soft in the summer heat and harden as the temperature decreases in the winter.
• After some years, asphalt will become hard and lose its resilience. Old tracks are bad for runners’ joints and muscles and can cause injury.
• It is costly.

Which type of running track surface should you choose?

It boils down to your requirements and budget. If you need a professional-level running track and have the budget, synthetic surfaces are the best option out there. Once installed, it is super convenient, durable, fast, and high-performing. Synthetic surfaces also reduce the risk of injury, and they will help you create an inclusive sport or recreation area.

Wrap Up

Your running track surface is going to highly impact the performance of the runners. It will also ensure the runners’ safety as well as functionality and durability of the running track.

Before you choose your track, first, answer all the crucial questions mentioned above. Only then choose from the different types of running track surfaces. Whichever running track surface you choose to install, prioritize safety and performance.

Playgrounds are important sources of recreation and merriment for children in their formative years. The activities in a playground can not only offer them the necessary physical exercise but also ample opportunities to develop their motor and cognitive skills.

If you are building a playground or are in-charge of one, you will have a lot of crucial decisions to take. Right from the kind of equipment you want for the playground to the kind of safety measures to put in place. Nearly 200,000 children visit the emergency room every year due to an injury at the playground.

With these statistics in mind, the government encourages that you should get your playground audited regularly for compliance with safety standards. If you are planning for an audit or inspection of your playground, here are a few terms that you should know about:

#1 ADA

Short for American Disabilities Act — a civil rights law that was enacted in 1990, to promote accessibility to individuals with disabilities in public spaces. The act is especially important when you are building a school or playground.

#2 Critical Height

Critical Height is the maximum height of playground equipment wherein a fall will not result in a serious head injury. It is considered to be quite crucial to playground safety. The play surface should be kept lower than critical height at all times to prevent serious injuries in the playground.

#3 Fall Height

Most playgrounds implement an impact-absorbing surface to prevent any serious accidents from taking place. The distance between the highest point of a play structure and this surface is known as the fall height. The fall height should be measured in a way that if a child falls from this point, they should land safely without incurring any life-threatening injuries.

#4 Safety Surfacing

Safety Surfacing or an Impact-Absorbing Surface is absolutely critical to building a safe playground. It is a protective surface that is installed in the play area to lessen the impact of a trip or fall. Poured-in-place (PIP) rubber surfacing is considered to be an ideal option for creating an impact-absorbing surface.

#5 Safety Audit

A playground safety audit is a one-time inspection wherein a safety inspector will visit your playground to assess the safety. The key assessment factor in a safety audit is compliance with the current standards of care, prescribed by the governing authorities. The safety inspector will be on the lookout for any potential hazards that might endanger children, and recommend solutions to solve such issues.

#6 Maintenance Inspection

Maintenance inspections are conducted periodically as opposed to safety audits and are targeted at checking the condition of the equipment and materials on the playground. The safety inspector will be on the lookout for outdated equipment or rusty surfaces that might cause injuries.

#7 Entanglement

If you have ever been subject to a maintenance inspection or a safety audit, chances are that your safety inspector will point out “hazards leading to entanglement”. Entanglement is basically an incident wherein a child’s jewelry or clothing might get entangled on a playground equipment. Such incidents can lead to injuries or falls, and can often be prevented by maintaining the ideal playground safety standards.

#8 Use Zone/Safety Zone

Safety Zone or Use Zone is where your Safety Surface should be installed. It is an area that is beneath or adjacent to playground equipment at places where a child is likely to fall.  It is a ground level area and is generally the most protected and well-maintained part of a playground.

#9 Inclusive Playground

An inclusive playground is one in which all children — regardless of any physical disabilities or conditions can have access to equipment and enjoy. In such playgrounds, the structures, equipment, and other accessories are designed to benefit all children. Such playgrounds feature a combination of ground-level activities along with other activities.

More importantly, such playgrounds are completely ADA-compliant.

Wrapping Up

Playground safety is an important issue of concern for parents as well as educators. While no child is absolutely safe on any playground, policy makers have been able to come up with regulations and standards that will prevent serious injuries from taking place. It is important that every playground adheres to these standards, and more importantly, conduct regular audits to ensure safety of the children.

Deciding on a surface system can be quite a complicated process unless you have an engineering background. Since every surfacing system has its share of pros and cons, choosing one that best fits your needs and requirements is the only way to go. A key aspect in doing so is understanding the kind of safety features you require and evaluating the costs associated with each surfacing system.

Poured-in-place rubber surfaces are two-layered unitary surfaces, considered to be some of the most versatile and safe flooring systems for places with a high probability of slip and fall incidents. In fact, did you know that flooring systems cause more than 2 million fall injuries each year? The surface can be of varying thickness based on the fall height that you have defined and follows the guidelines set forth by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Here are a few places where installing poured-in rubber surfacing might prove to be the ideal solution:

1. Playground

Children spend a lot of time out in the sun, playing outdoor games during their formative years. It might seem like an insignificant activity at the outset, but time spent on the playground potentially affects the social and cognitive development of children. Physical activity is also equally important for their growth, making playgrounds a crucial environment for children. But more than 200,000 children end up in emergency rooms due to playground injuries each year, highlighting the need for a safer environment.

Poured-in-place (PIP) rubber or wet-pour rubber is known to be one of the preferred playground surfaces due to the added safety and durability of the material. Since PIP rubber surfaces do not splinter and are shock absorbent, they make for an ideal playground surface. They also eliminate the scope of potential “surprises” that children might otherwise find buried in mulch surfaces. This includes discarded cigarettes, animal feces, or litter that you do not want your children to touch or come in contact with.

Moreover, considering the heavy footfall that playgrounds witness, the PIP rubber surface tends to be more preferred as once installed, it can last for more than 10 years.

2. Schools

When we talk about places that bolster the cognitive and physical development of children, schools evidently top the list. Schools witness children of all age groups walking and running, highlighting the importance of having a safe surface, more than any other place. Like playgrounds, schools also witness a heavy footfall every single day making it important for their surface system to be of good quality and long-lasting.

Schools generally have in-built gymnasiums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor areas where children are likely to engage in sports, outdoor games, and activities. Covering such surfaces with PIP rubber can be the right solution to ensuring the safety of the children and young athletes in the school. What’s more, PIP rubber surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and thus a great way for schools to be more inclusive of children with disabilities.

The biggest advantage associated with PIP rubber surfaces is that it is safe for critical fall heights of up to 10 to 12 feet, and appropriate for children aged 2 to 12. It is also highly cost-effective making it the perfect fit for the limited budgets usually seen in schools. For the same reasons, poured-in-place rubber surfaces are also considered to be a suitable surfacing system for daycare centers.

3. Pool Decks

Swimming pools are beloved by people of all ages and considered to be a great source of escape from the smoldering summer heat. Since a lot of water could splash from the pool onto the deck, slip and fall accidents are highly likely. Poured-in-place rubber surfaces can also allow you to experiment with the color and aesthetics around the pool and keep the surface temperature cooler, thus amplifying the experience of swimming in the pool.

Even in the case of pool decks, the safety factor associated with PIP rubber surfaces is undebatable. Such surfaces can increase the traction if they get wet, making it easier for people to walk on the deck even if they have just stepped out of the pool.

The slip-proof and water-proof qualities associated with PIP rubber surfaces make them the ideal choice for community pools, hotels/resorts, or even professional swimming institutes. It is also highly preferred in water-themed parks where slippery surfaces can lead to serious accidents and injuries.

4. Garage Floors

Looking for a stable surfacing system for your home garage and thinking of settling for concrete? Think again. If you plan to use the garage to park multiple cars and to store hardware, you might need a sturdier surface that can handle a certain extent of wear and tear.

While rubber surfaces are great for outdoor areas, their shock-absorbent properties make them an equally viable option for garages. They are also low maintenance and inexpensive, making them a perfect choice for your home garage. You can bring your artsy side out and erect installations, or create a workshop in your garage without the fear of damaging your flooring system. However, you should be mindful of the type of rubber you use, as not all of them can hold up under the weight of parked automobiles and engine oils.

The easy-to-install process ensures that you do not need to carry out regular repairs and maintenance on your garage surface.

5. Gyms and Fitness Centers

With increased attention on maintaining fitness and agility among people across the globe, gymnasiums are more popular than ever. Some even say that getting arduous exercise regularly can be therapeutic. Regardless of the reason why you go to the gym, working out in a safe environment is important, and can even motivate you to keep going.

Even the most highly trained athletes require soft surfaces to train since something as simple as dropping weights on the floor can severely damage the flooring system. Even if you do not perform any intensive exercises and just do sit ups, having a soft surface can help you avoid potential injuries. PIP rubber flooring is not only easier to clean and maintain, but its durability also makes it a cost-effective option for gymnasiums.

Since PIP rubber surfaces can handle a greater footfall, they are also more preferable for larger and more specialized gyms as they can easily handle a larger extent of wear and tear.

6. Public Parks

Public parks can be great sources of recreation and are known to have better air quality making them a preferred place for people who are looking to take a break. They are also the perfect destination for children and families to have picnics, connect with each other, and nature. Since people of all ages visit and enjoy public parks, they should be equipped with a surface that prevents unforeseeable slip and fall accidents.

Moreover, public parks house play areas for children where a sturdy rubber flooring system is almost a necessity. In addition to protecting children from having accidents and any serious injuries, you can add a lot of aesthetic appeal to the PIP rubber flooring making it more attractive and appealing to kids and adults alike. And yes, they are UV-stable in most cases, which means that they are unlikely to dry up as a result of overexposure to the sun.

Wrapping up

Selecting the right surface for a property is no easy task, and requires a lot of deliberation and consideration. Poured-in-place rubber surfacing can be the perfect flooring solution for many commercial, public as well as private properties. With salient features such as cost-effectiveness, easy installation, slip-resistance, water-proofing, and low maintenance, it is perfect for areas that witness heavy footfall and extensive wear and tear. Also known as a playground surface, it is a great way to ensure safety without compromising on aesthetics.

Rubber surfacing offers an array of benefits in outdoor and indoor environments. Whether it is their tactile and attractive appeal or durability, rubber flooring is quite popular as it comes across as a versatile option for all surfacing needs.

The benefits of rubber flooring aren’t hidden from anyone. Yet, there are a few facts that aren’t known to many. In this post, you’ll find the lesser-known facts about poured-in-place rubber surfacing that are sure to encourage you to opt for this material when taking up your next resurfacing project.

1. The Flooring Pays for Itself in the Long Term

Poured-in-place rubber surfaces are highly durable and will last you for more than a decade if taken care of. Rubber is a tenacious material that can stand up to routine wear and tear. The surface is resistant to scratches, dents, chemicals, and stains.

It is susceptible to grease stains; however, that can be tackled with routine waxing. The process is also known to improve the surface’s resistance to damage and discoloration.

Once installed, little is needed to clean and maintain the floor. The surface forms an impermeable layer against moisture, thereby protecting the subfloor from damage. Also, rubber surfaces are inhospitable to mold, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Hence, it’s a hygienic surface that demands minimum upkeep.

Though you may find the installation pricey, the flooring pays for itself in the long term through the world of benefits it offers.

2. It’s a Quiet Flooring

Rubber is an excellent choice for spaces that need zero sound transmission. The acoustic flooring can prevent the transmission of sound from one room to the other. This feature is especially useful in gyms, workshops, and commercial kitchens where a lot of noise is generated.

Rubber has a high-impact insulation class (ICC) and sound transmission class (STC). This means that rubber can prevent the transmission of impact noise (foot traffic or machine vibration) and airborne noise (people talking, speakers, and instruments). Hence, wet-pour rubber is a great choice for apartment buildings, gyms, hospitals, daycare centers, senior care facilities, and any space that needs quiet.

3. It Can Be Applied the Spaces You Didn’t Think of

And

Its Application Isn’t Limited to Gyms and Garages

The general misconception is that rubber surfaces are only meant for commercial spaces like warehouses, gyms, and garages. However, the fact is, owing to their versatility and attractive appeal, rubber surfacing can be installed in almost any space you can think of and isn’t limited to gyms and garages.

Wet-pour rubber surfacing is available in a wide variety of colors and can be customized as per your needs and overall decor. Rubber also makes a comfortable flooring underfoot, thereby relieving the strain on leg muscles.

Rubber is a surface material of choice in –

• Residential applications like kitchens, entryway, driveway, walkway, garage, basement, kids’ room, bedrooms, audiovisual rooms, pool decks, and bathrooms.
• Commercial settings like gyms, industrial kitchens, offices, and workshops.
• Senior care facilities
• Daycare facilities
• Pet daycare centers
• Hospitals
• Farm buildings
• Horse barns
• Trailer decks
• Public pool decks and other spaces

4. It Can Elevate the Look of Any Space

As mentioned earlier, rubber surfaces are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. You can choose from our range of EPDM color granules and install a surface that’ll complement the overall decor. You can use a single color or mix two or more colors to achieve the speckled look.

The River Rock Resurfacing team can also customize the flooring as per your brand theme and overall decor.

Head to our Instagram page to learn about the endless possibilities.

So, say bye to those times when rubber flooring was only available in black or gray tones. Today, it can be installed in residential and commercial settings to achieve an aesthetically pleasing look.

5. It Is Eco-Friendly and Devoid of Toxic Chemicals

Virgin rubber is usually procured from trees. However, River Rock Resurfacing uses recycled tires, thereby preventing them from getting diverted to landfills. Discarded tires consume a lot of space in landfills that contribute to the emission of methane gas. This gas is responsible for environmental issues like the global warming phenomenon.

By using these rejected tires, we are minimizing our carbon footprint. This makes rubber surfacing eco-friendly.

Next, we come to the belief that rubber surfaces contain toxic chemicals. This belief mostly prevails because elements such as arsenic, nickel, and benzene, found in rubber, are linked with life-threatening diseases like cancer. However, such issues are only caused when these elements are present in huge proportions.

Rubber surfaces are known to have traces of these elements, which doesn’t make them toxic!

Need proof?

Check out this research paper from the US Environmental Protection Agency that proves the safety of rubber surfacing.

Also, read through what Michael Peterson has to say in this matter. Michael is a board-certified toxicologist at Gradient, an environmental and risk sciences consulting firm.

6. It Won’t Make Your Space Smell Forever

There’s no denying, when newly installed, rubber surfaces tend to emit a rubber-like odor; something that’ll remind you of a tire shop. But how long the odor prevails hugely depends on the level of ventilation and the size of the room.

Once the area is aired well, the smell fades away. Moreover, with routine cleaning, the odor is almost undetectable. So, if you’ve installed a rubber surface in an open playground, the smell will disappear within a day or two.

7. The Surface Needs Resealing Once in Two Years

Wet-pour rubber surfaces comprise two layers –

• The base layer that acts as the impact attenuation layer and
• The top color or the finish layer that protects the layer below from wear

If not maintained routinely, the finish layer (carrying the sealant, glue, and UV protection) can get damaged or break into granules, thereby exposing the base layer. This causes the surface to lose its traction and shock-absorbing potential.

Hence, it’s critical to get your local rubber surfacing expert to reseal the flooring and prevent potential damage. We recommend resealing the surface once in two years to repair the wear, improve its UV resistance, and make the flooring look as good as new.

Summing Up

Owing to its longevity and high performance, rubber surfacing offsets several cost variables. Moreover, the surface proves to be a profitable investment in the long term.

If you are considering a resurfacing project shortly, get in touch with River Rock Resurfacing. Our team of experts is ever ready to answer your questions and guide you through your refurbishment project. Call us now to share your requirements!

Pool decks can make or break the surroundings of your swimming pool while rendering unique aesthetic elements to your house or housing complex. This is one of the biggest reasons why things like broken concrete or scattered surface materials should never be left to linger on your pool deck for long.

Sometimes, doing something as simple as choosing the right surfacing material can make all the difference, and other times, it might require the right set of skills to extend the aesthetic appeal of your pool deck.

Here are a few pool deck surfacing tips and a brief guide to help you things on the right track, when it comes to resurfacing your pool deck:

What is Pool Deck Resurfacing?

Pool deck resurfacing is a great way to spruce up your swimming pool, by integrating new and interesting elements, which can essentially personalize it. Swimming pool deck resurfacing is the process of revamping the surfacing system of your pool with new material balancing utility as well as aesthetic appeal of your deck. Apart from having enough space, and the right flooring, it is also important to choose the right material for your pool deck surfacing so that it is durable and effective.

Now that you know that pool deck resurfacing can help you make great first impressions, it is also important to know the basics of how to go about it. Here is a breakdown of how pool deck resurfacing can be carried out:

Step 1 – Prepare:

When it comes to pool deck surfacing, the first step should always be to ensure that your floor is prepared and repaired satisfactorily. Before you even think of laying down the surface, you should ensure that you fix all the cracks or any existing damages.

Step 2 – Prime:

Once your floor is fixed and ready for your new surface, the next step would be to prime it. Firstly, you should pressure wash the floor, and then after it is dried, you should apply primer if needed.

Step 3 – Ready Product:

After your prim and proper floor is all set for the new surface, it is a good time to get your surface material ready. For instance, if you are opting for a concrete surface, it is time to mix the product and color, so that it is ready for application.

Step 4 – Overlay and Seal:

Depending on the material you choose, you might need to deploy different kinds of overlays after applying your surface. You can choose to roll, spray or trowel based on the chosen material, till the desired look is achieved. After the overlay is cured, it is time to seal the surface with a powerful sealer. Adding a sealer ensures that you add more protection and resistance.

Now that you are familiar with the process of going about swimming pool deck resurfacing, it would bode well for you to be acquainted with the various kinds of surface materials that you can choose from.

Which Material Should you Choose?

Figuring out the surfacing system is half of the work that goes into resurfacing your pool deck. It is important to choose materials that would not be durable but also utility-friendly and befitting the aesthetic that you are aiming for. Some of the initial considerations that are important at this stage are whether you want the deck to have special features such as slip resistance, or whether they are tailored to your climate.

Here are some of the primary types of surface materials that are used for pool deck surfacing:

• Concrete

  Pool decks have since long utilized concrete for surfacing, due to its durability and versatility. Since it can be poured, stained or stenciled, and easily laid down, concrete is also considered to be a flexible option in terms of design. Moreover, it is a highly cost-effective option and can be customized in terms of color and texture. You can even design the concrete to give it a stone-like appearance which can be a great way to achieve the stone aesthetic without having to spend a fortune.

• Rock/Stone

  If you are going for a rustic and earthy aesthetic for your pool deck, choosing stone or rock for your surface can be a great idea. Limestone due to its cooling effect is a great option if your climate is hot and humid, and Sandstone is a great option for its texture. The cost associated with this surfacing option is usually high and is hence, more common in commercial properties than residential ones. It is preferable to choose stone options that are available in your region, to reduce the cost considerably.

• Tiles

  Ceramic tiles are yet another great option that can be considered for pool deck surfacing for your swimming pool. They can create a look that exudes sophistication and class. With tiles, you can go for the glazed ones, or choose a matte finish to render a more stone-like look and feel. The trick with ceramic tiles is to pick ones that are graded highly for slip resistance, considering they would form the surface of your pool deck.

• Wood

  A wooden swimming pool deck. Not surprising or uncommon, right? Wood as you know is one of the most common materials used for pool decks – residential or commercial. Wooden surfaces fall within the medium to high pricing bracket, considering the fact that they require regular maintenance including sanding, polishing, and cleaning. Wooden decks can provide a unique and organic aesthetic appeal to your pool deck, but also tend to rot easily making yearly maintenance mandatory.

Wrapping up

Creating the perfect pool deck might seem like a cumbersome and complicated task at the outset, but with the right information and technical expertise at your disposal, you can create one that fits your needs and is beautiful. One of the main considerations that you should keep in mind while resurfacing your swimming pool deck is to choose the right surface materials to meet your needs and budget.

Moreover, it is also important to know the basics of how to lay down pool deck resurfacing so that you can be wary of any mistakes in the process and make the right decisions for achieving the pool deck of your dreams.

Modern senior living facilities are constantly striving to do more than merely housing the elderly or accommodate age-related conditions. They are working towards designing comfortable, enjoyable, and safe living spaces for seniors.

Flooring is a critical component of this process. An ideal flooring prevents slips and falls in senior living facilities and reduces the risk of healthcare-associated infections. Simply put, the flooring of a senior care facility greatly influences the well-being of the seniors living in the facility.

The safety of the elderly residents is a huge aspect to consider when selecting a surface for a senior care facility. Here are a few effective tips that will prove to be useful as you set out to design a safe abode for your elder members.

1. Understand How Each Space Will Be Used

The first step is to go around the facility and understand the function of each space. For instance, high-traffic spaces like stairways, the lobby, gym, pool decks, the mailroom, and other social areas demand a durable and anti-skid surface.

Different types of spaces demand different surfaces; unless you have a versatile flooring option like rubber surfacing that fulfills all the safety needs of senior care facilities. Get your staff, residents, and other stakeholders together to understand how each space will be used. This will help you choose a surfacing material that meets the needs of space users.

For instance, the flooring in the public and semi-public areas like the lobby, the library, or the stairway will see a lot of foot traffic and people accessing the space using wheelchairs and other mobility aids. So, you need a surface that will make the space accessible. At the same time, you should opt for a resilient surface that can stand up to routine wear and tear.

Finally, make a note of the areas where the risk of a slip, fall, or accident is high. These spaces will require a surface with high traction and shock-absorbing potential.

2. Pay Attention to the Principles of Safe Flooring for Seniors

Choosing a surfacing that seniors will use is a tricky decision. Consider the below-mentioned principles to invest in a suitable surface for the senior care center.

Consistency

Be consistent with the surfacing. This will allow an easy and seamless transition for elders across the area.

For instance, an elder using a walker may find it tough to transition from a carpeted floor to a tiled area. They may have little confidence in setting their foot on a different surface with a considerable height difference. This may lead to confusion, causing them to trip and injure themselves.

Hence, it’s wise to choose a versatile surface that not just fulfills all your needs but also offers a safe footing for the elders in your facility. Minimize the number of transitions by opting for a consistent surface through the facility.

Also, get rid of saddles, thresholds, and area rugs. These can easily become tripping hazards.

Install a Safety Surfacing in Areas That Tend to Get Wet

Anti-fatigue and anti-skid surfaces are ideal for senior care communities. They come in handy in areas like the kitchen, the mess hall, and bathrooms that tend to get wet. In such areas, you need a surface with good traction to avoid slips and serious injuries.

A surface like rubber will perform well in such spaces as it’s naturally impervious to water and anti-skid. That’s because, rubber has a high coefficient of friction; so, it resists any lateral motion on the surface. Moreover, rubber is super soft under the foot, leading to less fatigue even if the elder is standing for long hours. Hence, rubber surfacing for elderly care centers is a good idea!

Keep Floors Free of Clutter

Besides choosing an ideal surface for the senior care facility, it’s important to keep the floor clean and clutter-free. Make sure items like books, magazines, and wires, that could cause tripping hazards, are cleared from the walkways.

3. Prioritize the Safety Factors When Opting for a Safety Surfacing

Several factors need to be considered when choosing an ideal surfacing for senior care facilities. For instance, the surface should be durable, easy to clean and maintain, skid and chemical resistant, and safe. However, the factors mentioned below shouldn’t be ignored at any cost.

Traction

Slips and falls are a leading cause of fatalities in seniors. Nearly 1 in 4 Americans aged ≥65 years report falling each year and visiting the emergency department for injuries and fractures.

Slip resistance is a huge factor to be considered in facilities designed for seniors. A flooring with high traction is especially important for facilities where the elder residents have limited mobility or are going through physical therapy or rehabilitation. This is the reason why the demand for rubber surfacing for senior care centers is increasing.

Make sure you choose a surface that’s safe with consistent friction. This will give the seniors the confidence of a firm footing at every step.

Shock Absorption

Serious injuries and fractures owing to falls are a huge concern in seniors, especially in health and social care settings. Hence, you need a springy surfacing material that can absorb the impact of a fall.

Opt for a cushiony material that’s not just comfortable underfoot but also has a good shock-absorbing potential. For instance, materials like rubber are known to offer great cushioning underfoot because of their elasticity. Rubber also possesses thermal and sound-insulating properties. All this makes rubber an ideal surfacing option for senior care centers.

On the other hand, ceramic tiles and hardwood floors are not suitable for senior care communities as they have zero shock-absorbing properties.

Hygiene

In seniors, the immune system doesn’t work at an optimal rate. Hence, the aging population is more susceptible to infections, allergies, and other comorbid conditions that affect their overall wellbeing.

Hence, senior care centers should keep hygiene as the top priority, especially in the wake of the pandemic. So, when it comes to flooring, you need a surface that’s inhospitable to pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

A surface like wall-to-wall carpeting may seem ideal for senior care centers. However, carpets are known to be home to a host of pathogens, dust mites, and allergens that could make the senior residents ill.

Make sure you choose a hygienic surface that doesn’t support the proliferation of pathogens and is easy to clean and maintain.

Summing Up

Floors frequented by seniors should not just be functional, durable, and good-looking but also offer them adequate cushioning and comfort. Consider these questions that will help you choose an appropriate surface for your senior care facility.

• Is the flooring slip-resistant?
• Will the surfacing offer adequate cushioning in case of fall?
• Is the flooring easy to traverse on? Will it make spaces accessible to seniors using a walker or wheelchair?
• Is the surface easy to clean and maintain?

If you are planning to resurface your senior care facility, get in touch with River Rock Resurfacing. Our surfacing experts will help you make a suitable decision, transforming the facility into a haven for seniors.

Trailers see everything from snow and dust to rain and heavy loads. The last thing you want is the deterioration of the trailer bed that could attract a whole lot of maintenance expenses. The right surfacing can hugely influence the life and longevity of your trailer. This guide will help you choose the most appropriate trailer deck surfacing to maximize the durability and utility of your trailer.

Importance of Trailer Decks

Trailer decks offer years of hauling capabilities. Your trailer carries all the cargo around. Most trailers are great for stacking up building materials like dimensional lumber, plywood sheets, or drywalls. A few others can carry mulch, topsoil, and other loose materials used for landscaping projects. These days, recreational vehicles and mobile homes have attached trailers that can haul dirt bikes, ATVs, or golf carts to a trailhead of a golf course.

Regardless of the cargo, they carry, trailer decks see a lot of wear and tear due to the material loaded. Hence, it’s critical to choose the trailer deck surfacing wisely. Several factors need to be considered when selecting suitable trailer flooring.

For instance, factors like the trailer load and the frequency of loading and unloading play a critical role in determining the life of the trailer.

Let’s look at the different types of trailers and the type of flooring they demand.

Types of Trailers and Their Flooring Requirements

A trailer flooring is probably one of the simplest components that can be replaced, provided you know which one to go for. Each type of trailer has unique surfacing requirements. We have attempted to throw light on them so that you can make an informed flooring decision.

1. Open Trailers

Open trailers experience the harshest environments. The flooring of these trailers is continually exposed to extreme weather conditions and UV radiation. Not to forget, the damage caused by the cargo loading and unloading.

Such trailers need a trailer deck resurfacing that uses a durable and high-performance material like rubber. The surfacing should be weather resistant, the one that will not fade away or rot. For such trailers, the poured-in-place rubber surfacing is your best bet in these trailers.

2. Vehicle Trailers

Vehicle or automobile trailers haul heavy vehicles, race cars, and dirt bikes. Hence, you need a trailer deck surfacing that’s similar to your garage flooring. The flooring should not just durable but also resistant to the chemicals that may leak from automobiles when in transit.

For instance, the surface should be resistant to engine oil, fuel, and car battery acids.

3. Utility Trailers

Utility trailer deck surfaces see a lot of wear from hauling items like furniture, vehicles, and heavy machinery. Durability is a huge factor here as the trailer carries heavy loads that may damage the surface. Here, you require a versatile and durable trailer deck flooring that can stand up to such routine damage.

4. Cargo Trailers

Cargo trailers need to be designed in such a way that it allows easy loading and unloading. You also need a quiet surface that absorbs the impact of the cargo hitting against each other during transportation. Moreover, the surface should be easy to clean and maintain.

Rubber surfacing works best for cargo trailers as they are versatile and possess all the properties mentioned above.

5. Livestock Trailers

Hauling livestock presents novel challenges. You should not just consider the safety of the animals but also their comfort. Besides taking measures to prevent injuries, haulers should be vigilant about maintaining a clean and biosecure environment for the livestock being hauled.

They should ensure a hygienic environment to prevent the spread of diseases among the subsequent loads of animals who can be infected through –

• Feces, blood, and urine
• Feed and water containers
• Insects and parasites
• Live pathogens on surfaces

Hence, the livestock trailer demands a surface that’s easy to clean and maintain, inhospitable to pathogens, springy, offers adequate traction, and skid resistant. Besides, it should also be resilient enough to withstand the wear and tear owing to the hard hooves hitting the floor.

6. RV Trailers

The surface installed in recreational vehicle trailers should not just be comfortable underfoot but also exhibit style and elegance. Since it’s a mobile home where you and your loved one will be spending a lot of time, the flooring should be comfortable, non-skid, and easy to clean. In short, you need trailer flooring that will make your RV trailer feel like home.

Why Wet-Pour Rubber Surfacing Makes an Ideal Trailer Deck Flooring

1. High Durability

Rubber surfaces are perfect for trailer decks as rubber is a tenacious material. It can stand up to the damage caused by hauling heavy cargo, automobiles, and livestock. Thus, it will enable the hauler to deliver goods without having to worry about its effects of friction and foot traffic on the trailer. The surface also works best for open trailers that are subject to harsh weather conditions.

2. Versatile

Regardless of the type of trailer you own, rubber surfacing can fulfill its specific needs. The surface is tenacious and hard-wearing, doesn’t let moisture seep through, and easy to clean and maintain. All these properties make rubber a versatile flooring material that works best for all types of trailer decks.

3. Resistant to Chemicals

Automobile and utility trailers carrying cars and other vehicles may a lot of oil and chemical spills. Being tenacious, rubber surfaces can withstand the damage caused by such chemicals, thus ensuring your trailer is in good condition for many years to come.

4. Skid Resistant

Rubber has a high coefficient of friction when compared to other trailer deck surfacing materials like wood and metal. Hence, it’s highly skid resistant. This property of rubber will come in handy when your trailer’s being used for hauling livestock.

An unstable trailer deck flooring can make the animals nervous during transportation, causing them to trip and injure themselves. Choosing a non-skid surface like wet-pour rubber can offer them enough traction for a safe and comfortable journey. Get in touch with River Rock Resurfacing for more information on safety rubber surfacing for your trailer.

5. Noise Canceling Surface

Heavy machinery and cargo tend to get noisy when being hauled around. Hence, you need a noise-canceling surface like rubber that absorbs the sound echo and prevents the transmission of sound. Hence, rubber surfaces are a great choice for utility and automobile trailers.

6. Impervious to Moisture

Accidental spills are quite common in trailers, especially if it’s livestock or an RV trailer. Trapped moisture can ruin the underlying structural components of your trailer, attracting repair and maintenance costs.

Rubber, being impervious to moisture doesn’t let it seep through to the underlying structure. So, unlike surfaces like wood, you do not have to worry about immediately drying out the area.

7. Inhospitable to Pathogens

Rubber is not an ideal material for the growth and proliferation of pathogens. Hence, it serves as a hygienic surface for trailers carrying livestock, thereby preventing the spread of infections and upholding their wellbeing.

8. Aesthetically Pleasing

Rubber surfacing is available in a variety of colors and patterns. So, installing poured-in-place rubber surfacing will give your trailer a new and attractive look. If you own an RV or a mobile home trailer, you must go for an attractive rubber surfacing that complements the overall appearance of your trailer.

Summing Up

From harsh weather conditions to heavy loads, trailer floors see a lot of routine wear and tear. Hence, it’s important to choose the trailer deck surfacing wisely.

If you are convinced that rubber is an ideal material for your trailer, get in touch with River Rock Resurfacing’s team of flooring experts. We will understand your requirements and suggest the most suitable solution for your trailer. Get in touch with us now!