Skating Rink Floors
Skating rink floors can be made of various materials, each serving a unique purpose for skaters.
Materials and Properties
- Traditional indoor roller skating rinks use hardwood maple for its smooth surface and good traction.
- Ice rinks require a concrete base with thin layers of frozen water.
- Synthetic rubber flooring is chosen for its durability and resistance to abrasion from skates.
- Vinyl, which is waterproof, is an ideal choice for basement flooring.
- Roller rink floor coatings often include polyurethane and acrylic.
Size and Maintenance
- The size of most skating center facilities ranges from under 14,000 square feet to over 21,000 square feet.
- Wooden floors offer better grip, especially for beginner skaters, while concrete floors facilitate momentum for spins.
- Standard backyard rinks are typically 20×40 feet in size.
- Roller rink floors need to be level and free of bumps to ensure safety.
- Regular maintenance is necessary to keep floors in good condition.
Potential Damage and Precautions
- There is no definitive answer on whether micro wheels damage skate floors, as it depends on various factors such as the type of micro wheel, floor material, and how frequently they are used.
- However, it is acknowledged that micro wheels have the potential to damage skate floors, so skate centers are advised to exercise caution.