Article Number : 3914 |
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| Date | 11/25/2008 9:07:45 AM |
| Written By | LGM & Associates Technical Flooring Services |
| View this article at: | //floorbiz.com/BizResources/NPViewArticle.asp?ArticleID=3914 |
| Abstract | By K.J. Quinn Creating high-quality products that are not only durable and stylish but also environmentally friendly is becoming increasingly important to the rubber flooring industry... |
| Article | By K.J. Quinn Creating high-quality products that are not only durable and stylish but also environmentally friendly is becoming increasingly important to the rubber flooring industry. To that end, manufacturers are creating new goods made from renewable resources or post industrial/post consumer waste. Such products can also contribute to LEED certification without compromising stock availability, performance, durability or style, vendors say. “The green initiative in the building trade is compelling to us as manufacturers to be responsible for what we make and how we make it,” said Dee Dee Brickner, marketing coordinator, Roppe Corp. In the commercial end, rubber is positioned as a premium floor covering, providing excellent wear, slip resistance, low- maintenance properties and comfort underfoot. When combined with a life cycle cost advantage, experts say, it tips the scale in rubber’s favor. Indeed, many architects and designers are finally hearing the rubber story and realizing the differences it can make. While the initial cost may be high (rubber is priced at more than $2 per square foot), the real cost savings occurs on the back end in the form of lower maintenance costs and long life, the latter of which may not be factored into the equation. By requiring less maintenance than competitive floors, experts say, it minimizes resources used and saves end users money. “Installation and replacement efforts are simpler and have less impact on indoor air quality and material being sent to landfills while also rendering lower maintenance and downtime costs,” said Jeff Krejsa, director of marketing, Johnsonite. The reality, however, is most architects and designers know the importance of presenting durable flooring at rock bottom prices, so they tend to spec products that offer lower costs up front. They may fail to educate facility owners on the importance of life cycle costing, which includes initial purchase price, plus costs related to maintenance and number of times a product is replaced over the life of a dwelling. Industry studies confirm rubber offers a better value over other flooring options when purchasing and maintenance costs over an extended period of time are factored in. Rubber is typically maintained by dry and wet mopping and requires no waxes or sealers. While life cycle costing is a major environmental benefit, it may not hold water with commercial customers who remodel their spaces every few years or plan to relocate when leases expire. Which is why rubber is often specified for applications where end users are looking to make an investment in a floor that will last 20 years or more, such as for schools, health care facilities and office complexes. Rubber does not have to be replaced as often as carpet and other resilient floors. And the product plays a role across certain LEED credit categories, covering such areas as materials and resources, indoor air quality, energy and atmosphere, and innovation and design. From an R&D perspective, many rubber flooring makers are reportedly making strides in creating products that have no negative impact on the environment. For example, Johnsonite offers a multi-functional, re-usable rubber tile called UnderLock, which is made from recycled materials. “It’s safe, slip resistant and contributes to good indoor air quality,” Krejsa said. “And it provides excellent return on investment.” |