Rubber flooring is a popular choice for various spaces, including gyms, playgrounds, and laundry rooms. It offers several benefits, such as being resilient, slip-resistant, and easy to maintain. Rubber flooring costs, on average, $3 to $8 per square foot, not including installation.
Rubber flooring’s shock-absorbing properties also make it a safer option for areas where there are high-impact activities and any other hard-wearing environments. Depending on the thickness and quality of the flooring, it can cost from $2 to $20 per square foot.
In this pricing guide:
- Average Costs
- Cost Estimator by Room Size
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Related Services
- Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
- Cost by Location
- FAQ
Average Rubber Flooring Costs in 2024
National Average Cost | $5.50 per sq. ft. |
Typical Price Range | $3 – $8 per sq. ft. |
Extreme Low-End Cost | $2 per sq. ft. |
Extreme High-End Cost | $20 per sq. ft. |
Although the costs for rubber flooring range between $3 and $8 per square foot, with an average of $5.50 per square foot, these prices can vary a lot depending on a few factors.
For example, rubber flooring mats are often less expensive and easier to install, costing as low as $2 per square foot. On the other hand, a poured-in-place rubber coating requires more materials and specialized labor, which could increase the overall cost to as high as $20 per square foot.
Additionally, the price can vary depending on the rubber material’s type, thickness, and design. It’s important to note that while rubber flooring may have a higher upfront cost than some other materials, its durability and low maintenance requirements can make it a cost-effective option in the long run.
Rubber Flooring Cost Estimator by Room Size
The cost of rubber flooring is significantly impacted by the size of the room you want to install it in. Larger rooms will require more flooring materials, adhesives, and installation time, increasing costs. Conversely, contractors can install rubber flooring quickly in small spaces, keeping costs down.
The table below displays an estimate of the average costs involved in a flooring project, considering the room size. Keep in mind that rubber flooring materials cost $3 to $8 per square foot. In comparison, the installation with labor and materials costs $4 to $12 per square foot.
Project Size | Average Cost (Materials Only) | Average Cost (Including Installation) |
50 sq. ft. | $150 – $400 | $200 – $600 |
100 sq. ft. | $300 – $800 | $400 – $1,200 |
200 sq. ft. | $600 – $1,600 | $800 – $2,400 |
300 sq. ft. | $900 – $2,400 | $1,200 – $3,600 |
400 sq. ft. | $1,200 – $3,200 | $1,600 – $4,800 |
500 sq. ft. | $1,500 – $4,000 | $2,000 – $6,000 |
Other Factors That Affect Cost
When trying to estimate the costs of your rubber flooring project, it is essential to consider certain factors besides the room size:
Type
Rubber floors come in three main types: rolled mats, rubber tiles, and poured-in-place rubber. Each type of rubber flooring has its own costs, unique characteristics, and installation requirements.
In addition to rubber floors, foam floors are another popular alternative that offers a cost-effective, easy-to-install option.
Type of Rubber Flooring | Cost Per Square Foot |
Rolled Mats | $2 – $6 |
Rubber Tiles | $4 – $11 |
Poured Rubber Coating | $8 – $15 |
EVA Foam | $1 – $2 |
Rolled Mats
Rolled rubber flooring or rubber mats are a popular choice for gyms, weight rooms, and other high-traffic spaces that require durable and resilient flooring. Unlike tiles, which can break apart under heavy loads, rubber floor mats are designed to withstand a beating and can last for years without showing any signs of wear and tear.
Rubber flooring rolls alone cost $2 to $6 per square foot. However, installing rolled rubber flooring can be more challenging than tiles and requires professional assistance to ensure a proper fit, which can increase costs.
Rubber Tiles
Although rubber floor tiles cost a bit more, at $4 to $11 per square foot, they’re easier to install thanks to their interlocking edges and hence, a popular choice for homeowners nationwide. Rubber tiles are especially ideal for smaller rooms or areas with irregular shapes, as they can be cut easily to fit the desired space.
Additionally, thinner rubber tiles are often less expensive, making them ideal for those on a budget. Thicker tiles, on the other hand, are typically used in outdoor settings where they can better withstand heavy foot traffic and exposure to the elements.
Poured Rubber
Poured rubber flooring is made of two layers — the top or wear layer is made of virgin rubber, while the bottom layer is made of thick, shredded recycled rubber tires. The result is a durable and impact-resistant surface that provides excellent slip resistance, making it a great choice for outdoor areas like a kids’ playground.
It’s worth noting that poured-in-place rubber is not a DIY project, and it requires specialized equipment and professional installation at the cost of $8 to $15 per square foot, including materials and labor.
EVA Foam
EVA foam tiles can be a great option if you’re on a tight budget and looking for a cushioned flooring option for activities like yoga or your children’s playroom. While they may not be as durable and long-lasting as rubber tiles, they offer softness, comfort, and good shock absorption.
EVA foam tiles cost $1 to $2 per square foot, and you can put them together yourself.
Rubber Gym Flooring
Rubber flooring is an excellent option for creating a home gym, as it provides a durable, slip-resistant surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic and heavy weights.
One important consideration when selecting rubber for home gym flooring is thickness. Because gyms often involve the use of heavy equipment and weights, it’s important to choose the flooring that is thick enough to provide adequate shock absorption.
Two main rubber flooring types can be used for gyms: rubber tiles and rubber rolls. Installing rubber tiles in a 200-square-foot gym costs $800 to $2,200, while rolled mats cost $400 to $1,200, plus labor.
Rubber Garage Flooring
Unlike tile options that can break up easily, poured rubber provides a seamless floor surface that is resistant to wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for garages. Another benefit of poured rubber flooring is its slip-resistant properties, providing a safe surface for cars to drive on, even in wet or slippery conditions.
Typically, a one-car garage is 12 feet x 24 feet, which means a poured concrete installation would cost around $2,304 to $4,320.
Thickness
When considering rubber flooring for your home, the thickness of the material is an essential factor to take into account when assessing the cost.
Thicker rubber flooring is generally more expensive than thinner options due to its durability and ability to withstand more weight and traffic. Thicker rubber can also provide greater sound and shock absorption, making it ideal for commercial gyms. On the other hand, thinner rubber flooring is less expensive, but it will wear out more quickly.
Design
While gray and black are the most commonly used colors for rubber flooring, there are a variety of other colors available for those who want to add a splash of color to their space. However, it’s worth noting that black rubber flooring tends to be cheaper than its colored counterparts.
The same goes for textured or embossed rubber floors, which can add an extra layer of safety and grip.
Labor
One major factor that can impact the overall price of rubber flooring installation is the labor cost. On average, home improvement contractors charge between $1 to $4 per square foot or around $47 per hour to install rubber flooring. However, these prices can vary depending on the type of rubber flooring being installed.
For example, rubber tiles are relatively easy to install, with interlocking edges that fit together like a puzzle. Hence, the labor cost for this type of flooring tends to be lower than for other options. On the other hand, rubber mats typically require glue-down installation, which can make the labor cost higher.
Poured rubber flooring can be the most expensive in terms of labor costs, as it requires specialized installation techniques and equipment.
If you’re planning on installing rubber flooring in a space with lots of corners, the process of cutting the rubber on an angle can be more time-consuming, which can also increase costs.
Subfloor Installation
Subfloors that are uneven, damaged, or in poor condition can cause the rubber flooring to become uneven or even buckle over time, which can be both unsightly and potentially dangerous. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the subfloors before installing the rubber flooring to ensure a smooth and even surface.
Replacing the subfloors costs $2 to $7 per square foot.
If you’re considering rubber flooring in a basement, remember that rubber is water-resistant, not waterproof. To protect your flooring from potential water damage, installing a vapor barrier between the subfloor and rubber flooring is recommended, costing $0.10 to $0.20 per square foot.
Related Services
With so many flooring options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure which direction to take. Take a look at the following related flooring materials to help you make the best flooring decision:
Vinyl Flooring
Regarding gym flooring, cushioned vinyl is an excellent alternative to rubber flooring. Vinyl flooring, backed by a layer of felt or foam, provides a softer and more flexible surface that offers greater comfort, especially when standing for extended periods.
In addition, cushioned vinyl flooring is water-resistant and easy to clean, which makes it an ideal choice for gyms and workout spaces where sweat may be present. Vinyl flooring typically costs between $865 and $3,330, or $1 to $6 per square foot (materials only).
Cork Flooring
If you’re looking to make your kids’ playroom more comfortable, cork flooring is an excellent option to consider. Cork is soft, cushioned underfoot, and naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and bacteria, which can be a concern in spaces where spills and messes are common.
Moreover, cork is an excellent sound insulator, so whether your little ones are playing with their toys, singing their hearts out, or practicing their dance moves, cork flooring can help create a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere throughout your home.
Cork flooring installation costs $1,400 to $2,735, or $3 to $10 per square foot (materials only).
Carpet Flooring
Carpet flooring not only provides a plush and cushioned surface for your feet, but it also adds an element of warmth and coziness to any room. With a range of textures and colors, carpet can be the perfect addition to your home, creating a soft and inviting feeling.
Carpet is also budget-friendly, slip-resistant, and easy to install, costing $760 to $2,335 or $2 to $10 per square foot (materials only).
Tip: If you’re considering rubber tiles for your home gym or playroom, remember that they can’t be installed directly over carpet. Carpet can compress and shift under the weight of rubber tiles, causing them to become unstable and potentially dangerous.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
If you’re considering a DIY rubber flooring project, it’s important to choose the right type of rubber flooring for your skill level and experience. Poured-in-place rubber flooring and rolled mats typically require more specialized installation, so they should be left to professionals.
However, interlocking tiles are a great option for those who want to tackle the installation process themselves. This is because they are designed with edges that easily fit together without needing adhesives.
Here are the materials and equipment you’re going to need if you decide to go on that route:
DIY Equipment | Average Cost |
Tape measure | $18 |
Utility knife | $12 |
Chalk line | $12 |
Straight edge | $30 |
Double-sided tape (optional) | $20 |
Total cost: | $72 – $92 |
The materials for a DIY rubber tile project are between $72 and $92, depending on whether you decide to tape the tiles to the subfloors (or existing floors). On average, you’ll save about $47 per hour on professional installation.
Warning: Before starting, read the manufacturer’s warranty information carefully to see if they extend to DIY installations.
Cost of Rubber Flooring by Location
When it comes to the cost of rubber flooring, where you live can have a significant impact on the overall price. If you live in an urban area, you can expect to pay more due to higher labor costs. These areas typically have higher living costs and more demand for skilled labor, which translates to higher hourly rates for workers.
However, shipping costs may be higher for rural areas due to transportation costs and the distance that needs to be covered.
FAQ
While there are many benefits to rubber flooring, there can be downsides as well, just like any type of flooring material:
● Untextured rubber can be slippery when wet.
● Seams between tiles can let water through.
● Rubber has an unpleasant odor when first installed.
● Rubber flooring can’t be installed over carpet.
With proper care and maintenance, rubber flooring can last for 10 to 20 years, making it a long-lasting and cost-effective option for your home or business.
While natural rubber is generally non-combustible and safe, it’s important to be aware that some synthetic rubber materials containing PVC can produce toxic gases when they do catch fire.
It’s also worth noting that some types of rubber flooring are sold with flame-retardant components, which can help reduce the fire risk.
Final Thoughts
Rubber flooring can be a fantastic investment for your home or business, providing you with a durable, low-maintenance surface that can withstand heavy use and last for many years.
Although rubber tiles can be easily installed as a DIY project, rolled rubber mats and poured rubber flooring should be left to the professionals to ensure a seamless installation. So, if you’re planning a rubber flooring project, consider working with a professional flooring installer to ensure that your project is completed quickly and efficiently.
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