Jeremy Stewart, widely regarded as the doyen of South Africa’s flooring industry, brings decades of expertise to this column. With over 35 years of experience, Jeremy has served on various committees, chaired several industry associations, and is a renowned speaker both locally and internationally on flooring and surfacing systems. As the owner of a national flooring company, he also holds the position of Chairman of SASPI (South African Sports and Play Industry) and serves as a Council member of SAGIC (South African Green Industries Council).   

Sport Flooring: Which one should you choose? 

With a wide variety of sport flooring options available, finding the right one can be challenging. In this edition of Floors Encapsulated, we break down different types of sport flooring and highlight the sports they’re best suited for, helping you make an informed decision. 

Polyurethane build-up 

A polyurethane system is installed over a shock-absorbent underlayer. It delivers excellent slip resistance, exceptional durability, optimal ball bounce, and enhanced safety for athletes—making it ideal for ball sports like basketball and volleyball. 

EPDM rubber crumb 

This polymeric surface is typically used outdoors in playgrounds, multi-use games areas, and athletic tracks. EPDM rubber crumb ensures excellent ball bounce, good grip, and sliding capacity, making it a go-to for outdoor activities. 

Playsafe rubber flooring 

This flooring is best for playgrounds, weightlifting areas and functional fitness spaces. It protects hard surfaces like concrete from light and heavy impact while providing comfort for children and athletes.  

Plastic tiles 

Made from durable polypropylene, plastic tiles are a versatile option for multi-purpose venues, both indoors and outdoors. They provide solid technical performance with consistent ball bounce, great grip, and smooth sliding capacity, making them a strong contender for various sports settings. 

Artificial grass 

Artificial grass, typically composed of polyethylene (PE) fibres, comes in various thicknesses and roll sizes, customizable for different pitch requirements. Here’s how it performs for specific sports: 

– Soccer: Simulates natural grass, offering a similar play experience. 

– Hockey: Features shorter, denser fibres for a fast-playing surface with better stick-to-ball interaction. 

– Padel: A short-pile artificial grass with silica-sand infill, offering the perfect playing surface for this growing sport. 

The choice of flooring depends on the sport and the required performance. Each option offers specific advantages tailored to the needs of athletes and the game itself. 

For more information, contact Seamless Flooring Systems: 

Tel: 0861 782 789 

Email: info@seamlessflooring.co.za 

Website: www.seamlessflooring.co.za