Temperature management sports floor

During the winter months, we often measure temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius in sports halls. This may not seem like a big problem, but it is precisely this cold that can cause slipperiness on the sports floor. The cause? Condensation. Cold air can hold less water vapor than warm air. With a rapid drop in temperature, that vapor precipitates on the coldest surface: the floor.

This layer of condensation is often so thin that you cannot see it with the naked eye. Yet the effect is noticeable. The floor becomes smoother, especially if the saturated top layer of the floor absorbs that condensation. The result is an increased risk of slips and injuries. In winter, the gymnasium is often busier. More athletes create higher humidity. Without proper ventilation and heating, that moisture stays in the hall.

Water-based PU sports floors are especially susceptible to saturation. These floors are barely porous, so moisture quickly adheres to the surface. Even a small amount of moisture can cause slipperiness. Wood sports floors also have their challenges. Dry air causes shrinkage and cracks, while moisture causes expansion and bulging. In both cases, this is to the detriment of the floor’s sporting properties.

Therefore, it is important to control the temperature in the sports hall properly. Our advice is to always keep the temperature on the floor above 16 degrees Celsius. In addition, ensure regular cleaning with the right agents, and have the floor revitalized periodically. This will prevent the floor from becoming saturated and maintain its skid resistance.

Want to learn more about the relationship between temperature and humidity? The Mollier diagram, developed by Richard Mollier in 1904, shows this clearly.

Suffering from slipperiness? Our sports floor specialists are at your service. We measure, assess and advise. Get in touch and schedule an inspection. This will keep your sports floor safe and ready for use in any season.