View the study done by Suzanne Barnes in the US – Rubber Flooring: Value and Beauty for the Long Term. Click here.
Barnes conducted a life cycle analysis comparing all flooring types, determining how much they will cost over time. Even when using natural Dalsouple rubber, we believe it to be the lowest cost option in the long run. After 15 years, carpet needs replacing 3 times and vinyl needs polishing and buffing every day, making rubber the most cost-effective option.
Dalsouple rubber is a good choice for people with asthma. It's also great for use with animals – unlike carpet or floorboards, it's anti-slip and easy to clean by vacuuming or mopping.
In the last few years, studies have been done on plastics and their effects on health. Some plastics contain BPA – Bisphenol A – which can mimic the body's own hormones and have negative health effects on both adults and children. Some vinyl floorings claim they are made from recycled products, but can actually use about 60% recycled PET bottles. You need to be sure the flooring your children are playing on is made from a healthy material, such as rubber. There was also a study done in Sweden that showed a correlation between vinyl flooring and autism. To read the study, click here.
Questions to ask carpet retailers or other rubber manufacturers are:
Where is it made?
What is is made of? Where is the evidence of its content?
What is the critical radiant flux and smoke generation test?
What is the VOC rating?
What is the date of manufacture?
What is the guarantee?
What is the slip rating?
Where is the list of installations in Australia?
How long has this product been selling in Australia?
Where can I see it in situ and walk over it?
All the answers to these questions and more can be found on our website. You will not find this much detailed information on any other rubber flooring company's website in Australia. If you have any other questions that aren’t on this list, please contact us.
Evidence of Dalsouple existing long term in Australia.
Have a look at our photo gallery of Hobart Customs or Technocity in our commercial photo gallery. Both installations have been down 15 years and look as if they will last twice as long. Dalsouple rubber has a guarantee of 10 years but you would expect it to last 15 to 20 years at least.
Rubber flooring has been down at Old Parliament House in Canberra now for over 80 years. You would expect it to be replaced before then, but it is now a heritage listed building and can't be touched! Rubber flooring has been on the aerobridges at Brisbane airport for 26 years. If it can last this long in commerical, heavy duty traffic areas, it could last at least 30 years in your house!
|