In addition to daily and annual maintenance recoating procedures, additional floor protection is an option.
Floor Covers
Floor covers are not always needed in multipurpose rooms, but they do offer an extra layer of protection that help to keep your multipurpose maple floor looking its best when used for non-athletic events.
Do not use floor protection until verifying with the finish manufacturer’s recommended full cure time. Do not place floor protection until these cure times are met. Keep in mind that cure times may vary based on environmental conditions.
Several manufacturers produce gymnasium floor covers for extra protection and that come in a range of styles and thicknesses. Click here for a list of MFMA Allied Manufacturers that produce floor covers.
It is important to limit the amount of time that a maple floor is covered since maple flooring is a hygroscopic material, meaning it will absorb and release moisture and/or humidity from the environment. Allowing the floor protection to remain in place for extended periods of time may inhibit the maple’s ability to equalize with the environment.
Click here for daily floor care recommendations:
Walk-Off Mats
Walk off mats are recommended at entry points of the gymnasium. These mats are designed to protect the floor from the outside elements including debris, water and/or snow. Facility managers should ensure that both guests and athlete’s shoes are void of debris before stepping onto the maple surface. Debris, salt, pebbles, and the like can damage the finish coatings and surface of the maple flooring. In extreme instances snow or water migrating from either open doors or foot traffic can introduce unwanted moisture into the area, causing potential damage to the finish coatings or an imbalance in the moisture content of the maple.
Walk-off mats should be removed and cleaned daily, allowing for a visual inspection of the area and ensuring that the floor under the mat is cleaned during daily maintenance. Leaving walk-off mats in place over prolonged periods may cause some discoloration in the floor.
If you have any additional questions, please contact MFMA’s Technical Director at 888-480-9138.
See Also: Daily Floor Care
© 2025 MFMA
Disclaimer: MFMA provides general information to architects, specifiers, and consumers. MFMA, its members, officers and agents disclaim any responsibility whatsoever for the accuracy or applicability of these guidelines under all circumstances and conditions.