When specifying indoor sports wooden flooring, it is essential to understand the technical specifications and standards that govern its performance. These standards ensure that the floor meets minimum requirements for safety, performance, and durability. In this article, we will explore the key technical specifications that every facility owner should know.
Shock absorption is measured according to the European standard EN 14904, which specifies that the minimum shock absorption for a sports wooden floor is 53 percent. This is measured using a standardized test method in which a weight is dropped from a specified height onto the floor, and the force of the rebound is measured. The higher the percentage, the more impact force the floor absorbs.
Ball rebound is also measured according to EN 14904. The standard requires a minimum ball rebound of 90 percent for basketball floors. This means that when a ball is dropped from a height of 1.8 meters, it must rebound to a height of at least 1.62 meters. The test is performed using a standardized basketball and a flat, hard surface as a reference.
Rolling load is the maximum force that the floor can withstand when a wheel or caster is rolled across it. The standard rolling load for professional sports floors is 1,500 Newtons. This ensures that the floor can support the weight of equipment carts, wheelchairs, and other wheeled items without damage.
Point load is the maximum force that the floor can withstand when a concentrated load, such as a shoe heel, is applied to a small area. The standard point load for professional sports floors is 1,000 Newtons per square centimeter. This ensures that the floor can withstand the repeated impact of athletes’ feet without denting or cracking.
Flatness is measured as the maximum deviation from a perfectly level surface over a specified distance. The standard for flatness in professional sports floors is no more than two millimeters over a three-meter span. This is measured using a long straightedge and a feeler gauge.
The thickness of the floor is another important specification. Standard sports wooden flooring ranges from 18 to 26 millimeters. For professional basketball courts, a thickness of 20 to 22 millimeters is typically recommended. Thicker floors generally provide better shock absorption and durability.
The wood species is specified by its Janka hardness rating, which measures the resistance of the wood to denting and wear. Maple, the most common species for basketball courts, has a Janka rating of approximately 1,450 pounds-force. Oak has a rating of approximately 1,360 pounds-force, while ash has a rating of approximately 1,320 pounds-force.
The moisture content of the wood is also specified. The ideal moisture content for sports wooden flooring is between six and nine required tests before it can be considered compliant with the standards. This certification provides assurance to facility owners that the floor they are installing meets the highest standards of performance and safety.
In conclusion, understanding the technical specifications and standards for indoor sports wooden flooring is essential for ensuring that your facility is equipped with a floor that meets the required performance criteria. By specifying a floor that meets or exceeds all the relevant standards, you can provide your athletes with a safe, high-performing playing surface.
