Installing wood flooring in a gym is a high-stakes project. The consequences of a bad installation are severe: buckling, gapping, cupping, squeaking, and premature failure. Unfortunately, many make the same avoidable mistakes. Here are the most common errors and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Skipping the Moisture Test
The single most common mistake is installing wood over a subfloor without testing for moisture.inishing is a multi-step process. First, the floor is inspected and all nails are secured. Second, the old finish is removed using a drum sander or edger. The drum sander removes the top layer of wood along with the old finish. Third, the floor is vacuumed thoroughly to remove all dust. Fourth, a new finish is applied — typically two to three coats of polyurethane, with light sanding between coats. Fifth, the floor is allowed to cure for 24 to 48 hours before any furniture or equipment is placed back on it.
How Many Times Can You Refinish?
Solid hardwood can be refinished 3 to 7 times, depending on the thickness of the wood. Each refinishing removes about 1/32 of an inch of wood. Engineered wood can be refinished 1 to 2 times, depending on the thickness of the wear layer. Once the veneer is worn through, engineered wood must be replaced.
Professional vs. DIY Refinishing
Refinishing a gym floor is not a DIY project. The equipment required — particularly the drum sander — is expensive, and the process requires skill to avoid uneven surfaces, missed spots, or damage to. Always hire a professional floor refinishing company with experience in gym floors.
Refinishing is the secret to a wood gym floor that lasts a lifetime. Do not wait until the floor is destroyed — refinish proactively, and your floor will always look and perform like new.
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