What Thickness of Rubber Flooring Do I Need?
Choosing the right thickness of rubber flooring is one of the most important decisions for any commercial space. The correct thickness impacts durability, safety, noise reduction, comfort, and long term performance. Using rubber flooring that is too thin can lead to premature wear, while overly thick flooring may increase costs without adding real value.
Below is a practical breakdown of rubber flooring thickness by commercial use case so you can make the right decision for your facility.
Why Rubber Flooring Thickness Matters
Rubber flooring thickness affects how the floor performs under real world conditions, including:
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Foot traffic volume
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Weight of equipment or machinery
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Impact absorption
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Noise and vibration reduction
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Long term maintenance costs
In commercial environments, flooring must balance performance with compliance, safety, and longevity.
Common Rubber Flooring Thickness Options Explained
3 mm to 5 mm Rubber Flooring
Best for:
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Offices
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Retail spaces
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Hallways and corridors
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Light commercial environments
Why choose it:
This thinner rubber flooring provides slip resistance and durability for areas with steady foot traffic but minimal impact or heavy equipment. It offers a clean, professional appearance while remaining easy to maintain.
Not recommended for:
Gyms, warehouses, or spaces with dropped equipment or rolling loads.
6 mm to 8 mm Rubber Flooring
Best for:
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Fitness studios
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Schools and educational facilities
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Healthcare spaces
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Moderate traffic commercial areas
Why choose it:
This mid range thickness offers improved comfort underfoot, better sound absorption, and increased durability. It is ideal for spaces where people stand for long periods or where carts and equipment are frequently moved.
10 mm to 12 mm Rubber Flooring
Best for:
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Commercial gyms
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Weight rooms
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Functional training areas
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Manufacturing or light industrial spaces
Why choose it:
Thicker rubber flooring absorbs impact from dropped weights, reduces noise and vibration, and protects the subfloor. This thickness is often required in high impact fitness environments to prevent damage and reduce long term repair costs.
15 mm and Thicker Rubber Flooring
Best for:
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Heavy weightlifting facilities
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Cross training and powerlifting gyms
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Industrial environments with heavy machinery
Why choose it:
This is the most durable option for extreme impact and heavy loads. Thicker rubber flooring provides maximum shock absorption and protection, making it ideal for areas with frequent equipment drops or sustained heavy use.
Rubber Flooring Thickness by Commercial Use Case
Office and retail spaces: 3 mm to 5 mm
Schools and healthcare facilities: 6 mm to 8 mm
Commercial gyms and fitness centers: 8 mm to 12 mm
Weightlifting and power training areas: 10 mm to 15 mm
Industrial and manufacturing spaces: 12 mm and thicker
Other Factors to Consider Besides Thickness
Thickness alone is not enough. Commercial buyers should also consider:
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Subfloor condition and leveling requirements
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Type of rubber flooring (rolls, tiles, interlocking)
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Adhesive or installation method
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Moisture exposure
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ADA and safety compliance
Professional installation ensures the correct thickness performs as intended.
How to Choose the Right Rubber Flooring Thickness
The best way to determine the correct thickness is to evaluate:
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How the space will be used
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The weight and frequency of equipment movement
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Noise control requirements
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Long term maintenance expectations
A professional assessment can prevent costly mistakes and ensure the flooring meets both performance and safety standards.
Need Help Choosing the Right Rubber Flooring?
Selecting the right rubber flooring thickness is an investment in safety, durability, and long term performance. Our team works with commercial clients to assess usage needs and recommend flooring solutions that stand up to real world demands.
Contact us today for a consultation or estimate and get expert guidance tailored to your facility.
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