How We Saved Temecula High's Gym Floor

The old flooring lasted 10 years, but with the right steps, it could have lasted up to 20 years. It wasn't the weights or the kids that ruined this gym floor—it was moisture sneaking up from the concrete slab, and this created real trip hazards in an already challenging environment. When the owner removed the weights and we pulled up the failing rubber flooring, we quickly noticed that the floor needed some serious TLC.

Using a heavy-duty commercial grinder, we achieved a CSP-3 profile on the concrete, effectively preparing it for a brand-new start. The CSP (Concrete Surface Profiles) scale ranges from 1 to 10, with each increment representing the surface's level of texture and roughness. A CSP-3 profile offers a moderate texture, suitable for promoting good adhesion for coatings, overlays, or other treatments. This crucial step ensures that the surface will properly accommodate the next phase of the flooring installation, leading to better durability and performance.

One crucial step that was missed in the original installation was applying a two-part moisture barrier. So, after opening
up the pores of the concrete slab, we applied Ardex MC Rapid moisture control, creating a permanent barrier against moisture. This vital step ensures the floor’s longevity, even through several flooring changes.

Once the moisture barrier dried overnight, we laid down the new rubber flooring. We chose the Nora Norament 992 Grano rubber flooring for its durability and high performance. With the right installation process, this flooring is set to last up to 20 years, providing a safe and reliable surface for the gym. Now, the students at Temecula High School have a safe and exciting place to chase their dreams.