Gym floor sanding is a process where the top layer of a gym’s wood floor is sanded down to remove surface imperfections such as scratches, scuffs, and stains. This process restores the smoothness and appearance of the floor and prepares it for refinishing with a protective coating, ensuring it looks polished and remains durable.
Gym floors endure heavy foot traffic, sports activities, and equipment movement, which can lead to wear and damage. Sanding helps restore the floor’s surface, removing imperfections and unevenness, and prepares it for refinishing. This process ensures the floor remains safe, smooth, and visually appealing, which is crucial in maintaining a high-quality athletic environment.
Gym floors should be sanded every 7 to 10 years, depending on the amount of use and the level of foot traffic. In high-use facilities, like school gyms or professional sports arenas, sanding may need to be done more frequently, especially if the floor shows signs of wear or damage.
Yes, gym floor sanding removes surface-level scratches and dents. If the damage is deeper, the sanding process will help smooth out the imperfections by removing the damaged wood. For very deep scratches or gouges, additional repairs may be needed before the sanding process.
Yes, sanding removes old court markings, and after the sanding process is complete, new lines and markings can be repainted. This allows for clear, sharp lines to be reapplied, ensuring they are accurate and visually appealing for various sports activities.
The duration of the sanding process depends on the size of the gym and the condition of the floor. For most gym floors, the sanding and refinishing process takes 3 to 5 days. The drying time for the finish can add an additional 24 to 48 hours before the floor is ready for use.
At Ryans Restoration, we use dust-free sanding equipment to minimise the amount of dust created during the process. While some dust is inevitable, our equipment is designed to capture the majority of the dust, keeping your gym clean and safe during the restoration process.
After sanding, we typically apply a durable polyurethane finish to protect the wood and give it a smooth, glossy appearance. We offer both water-based and oil-based finishes, depending on your preferences. Water-based finishes dry faster and emit fewer fumes, while oil-based finishes provide a richer, more traditional look.
After sanding and refinishing, it’s important to allow the floor finish to fully cure before resuming activities. We recommend waiting at least 48 to 72 hours before allowing foot traffic, and longer for heavy equipment to be placed on the floor. This ensures that the finish is fully set and durable.
Sanding removes most surface imperfections such as scratches, scuffs, and stains. However, if the wood has deep damage, such as large gouges or water damage, additional repairs may be needed before sanding. We assess the condition of the floor and recommend any necessary repairs during our initial consultation.
Gym floor sanding is typically performed on hardwood floors. Solid hardwood gym floors are ideal for sanding and refinishing. Engineered wood floors can also be sanded, but the number of times this can be done depends on the thickness of the top veneer. Our team will assess whether your gym floor is suitable for sanding.
After sanding and refinishing, regular maintenance is essential to keep the gym floor in good condition. Daily sweeping or vacuuming removes dirt and debris that can scratch the surface. For deeper cleaning, use a damp mop with a wood-safe cleaner. Avoid using excessive water and regularly check for signs of wear or damage.
To protect your gym floor from damage, use rugs or mats at entryways to reduce the amount of dirt brought in from outside. Use protective pads under heavy gym equipment, and avoid dragging furniture or equipment across the floor. Regular maintenance, such as buffing and refinishing, will also help protect the finish and extend the life of the floor.
Depending on the size of the gym and the scope of the sanding work, the gym may need to close temporarily during the process. However, we work with you to minimise disruption, and sanding can often be scheduled during off-hours, weekends, or school holidays to avoid interference with gym activities.
Ryans Restoration provides professional gym floor sanding services with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art equipment to ensure dust-free sanding and flawless results. We are committed to delivering durable, polished floors that enhance the safety and aesthetics of your gym facility. With flexible scheduling and exceptional attention to detail, we help ensure your gym floor looks and performs its best.
