How Long Does Rubber Flooring Last?

Types

• Rubber flooring is available in long sheets, on rolls and as tiles. Rubber tiles usually come in more colors than other types of rubber flooring, and you can mix and match tiles to create various geometric designs. Some flooring is made from natural rubber taken from the sap of rubber plants. Other types consist of natural and recycled rubber, featuring a multicolored appearance that resembles granite floors and countertops.

Durability

• Many flooring retailers and industry magazines tout the longevity of rubber flooring. For example, "Commercial Building Products" magazine indicates that rubber flooring lasts 15 to 30 years, and can be installed in home gyms, basements, garages, home offices and other areas where resilient flooring is required. However, the magazine doesn't recommend using recycled rubber flooring in kitchens and bathrooms, unless there's a permanent finish on the surface. Recycled rubber often has pores that can trap moisture, grease and food particles if the flooring isn’t sealed.

Maintenance

• Proper cleaning increases the lifespan of rubber flooring, which is generally easy to maintain. Some varieties only require using a broom or mop and a cleaner recommended for rubber floors to maintain their appearance. However, some rubber flooring should be waxed periodically, so ensure you understand how much maintenance is required before you purchase the flooring. In any case, it's important to sweep and mop rubber floors regularly to prevent dirt from being ground into them.

Thickness

• The thickness of rubber flooring also affects how long it lasts, depending on the activities it's exposed to. For example, rubber flooring that's 3/8 inch thick would be best for home gyms where heavy weights are used. "Commercial Building Products" indicates rubber flooring that's 3/8 inch thick can last for more than 20 years in a weight room without showing wear. However, the magazine notes the flooring is so resilient that rubber as thin as 5/32 to 1/4 inch thick can be installed in high-traffic areas and last just as long.