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Expert Advice

Choosing the best sports flooring: VariUse vs. Polyurethane

When selecting a surface for gymnasiums and sports facilities, the three main options are vinyl, timber and poured polyurethane. Among these, vinyl flooring, such as VariUse, stands out for its cost-effectiveness, ease of installation and low maintenance. This article explores the advantages of VariUse synthetic vinyl sports floors compared to traditional poured polyurethane surfaces, focusing on key factors like durability, safety and hygiene.
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Thickness and Durability

Poured polyurethane floors consist of a rubber shock pad with a seal layer. While their self-levelling properties can result in variable thickness and durability, VariUse offers a superior solution. Constructed with base layers of closed-cell foam, VariUse ensures consistent thickness and high safety standards throughout, making it a reliable choice for long-term use.


Shock absorbency and player safety

Vinyl sports floors, such as VariUse, are designed with point-elastic properties. This ensures the floor interacts with an athlete at each point of contact individually, providing optimal impact protection and significantly reducing the risk of injury during high-impact activities.

VariUse’s multi-layered construction further enhances player safety by improving traction while minimising friction. Less heat is generated during dives and slides, helping to prevent injuries and burns.

In contrast, polyurethane surfaces are finished with a nonporous aliphatic coating, making them hygienic and easy to clean. However, this thin topcoat provides only half the abrasion resistance and a wear layer that is 12 times thinner than VariUse sports floors. Unlike polyurethane, VariUse requires no resurfacing, waxing, sealing or polishing throughout its lifespan.


Colour and customisation

One of VariUse’s standout features is its wide range of design possibilities. Factory-made with consistent colours and finishes, VariUse floors offer options such as timber looks, solid colours and custom designs, including school or team logos. Its versatility makes it perfect for multi-purpose spaces like gymnasiums that host sports, assemblies and events.


Hygiene and maintenance

VariUse excels in hygiene with its waterproof, heat-welded seams that prevent bacteria growth. It is also highly stain-resistant and easy to repair without requiring facility closures. In contrast, polyurethane repairs involve solvent-based chemicals and may lead to downtime, adding to long-term maintenance challenges.


Why choose VariUse?

VariUse from Advance Flooring is a world-leading indoor sports flooring solution designed for multi-sport, multi-use and sports-specific applications, such as tennis and badminton. Combining innovative technology with superior durability and player safety, VariUse offers a cost-effective, versatile and long-lasting alternative to traditional polyurethane floors.

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