First steps in my flooring quest
So this all started when our community center planned to renovate the old volleyball courts. I was put in charge of picking materials, which was kinda scary ’cause I knew zero about sports flooring. Just felt those concrete floors were killing players’ knees whenever I watched games.
Testing different options
First I grabbed samples of everything – rubber tiles, synthetic stuff, even regular hardwood. Smashed volleyballs at ’em from different heights to check bounce. Dropped weights to listen for that awful hollow sound some floors make. The hevea wood samples? Man, they ate up impacts like marshmallows.
Getting hands-on with installation
Paid for a small test section first. Helped the installers lay those tongue-and-groove planks over foam pads. Noticed how the wooden pieces sort of clicked together like giant puzzle pieces. Sweated buckets carrying bundles – that tropical hardwood’s heavy stuff!
Surprises along the way
Couple weeks after install, we had crazy rain flooding the building. Panicked thinking the floor was toast. But when we pulled up planks? Bone dry underneath. Those moisture-resistant pads actually worked! Also caught players doing slides on purpose during practice – said the texture gave perfect grip without scraping skin.
Why it beats other options
After six months of seeing daily abuse, here’s why I’m sold:
- Shock absorption – No more players limping off court holding their backs
- Ball response – Consistent bounce that doesn’t mess with game timing
- Surface grip – Sweaty dives actually stop instead of becoming face plants
- Durability – Still zero scratches despite cleats grinding daily
- Maintenance – Just broom sweep? Sign me up for lazy cleaning!
The verdict
Sure it cost more upfront. But seeing our court packed every night now? Worth every penny. That woody smell when you walk in beats rubber stink any day. Players keep thanking me for saving their joints – and honestly? Watching them play longer without pain makes me feel like a genius.
