Tap Dance Floors

Inspecting the Floor:

• Upon arrival, inspect the floor for any damage during shipping.
• If the boxes or rolls show signs of mishandling, contact the supplier immediately.
• Allow the floor to warm to room temperature, especially in colder months.

Storing the Floor:

• For flexible flooring types, store the floor horizontally on the provided core.
• For stiffer flooring, store the floor vertically with the core intact to prevent creasing.

Preparing the Sub-Floor:

• Remove or cover any screw heads, nails, or protrusions to prevent damage to the dance floor.
• Fill any cracks in the sub-floor with an appropriate filler and sand the surface smooth.

Cutting the Floor:

• Plan the size of the floor pieces before unrolling the material.
• Lay the floor on a flat surface (e.g., stage or studio) and mark the cutting lines using a straight edge.
• Carefully cut along the measured lines with a matte knife.

Taping the Floor (Surface Tape Method):

• Let the floor lay flat overnight to eliminate wrinkles.
• Leave a 1/8" gap between floor pieces for expansion, then apply vinyl floor tape along the seams.
• Tape around the perimeter of the floor for secure installation.

Taping the Floor (Double-Sided Tape Method):

• Work with a partner to apply double-sided tape to the sub-floor, leaving the protective film on top.
• Position the first section of flooring, then peel back the film and press the floor onto the tape.
• Continue working in sections until all floor pieces are secured.

Rolling and Storing the Floor:

• Before removing and storing the floor, sweep away any dirt to avoid damage.
• Roll the floor on a solid core, keeping the edges straight to prevent "coning."
• Wrap the floor in a protective covering, and if possible, store it in a clean area, no more than two rolls high.

Protecting Your Dance Floor:

• Use mats at doorways to minimize dirt.
• Avoid food, drinks, or smoking on the floor.
• Prevent sharp objects from contacting the surface and use drop cloths for painting tasks.
• Clean up spills immediately without using abrasive cleaners.

Regular Cleaning:

• Sweep and mop the floor at least three times a week; daily cleaning is recommended for high-use areas.
• Avoid cleaners containing ammonia, as they can leave a slippery residue.
• Use a soft push broom to prevent scratches.

Light Cleaning:

• Mix 1 ounce of mild cleaner with 1 gallon of warm (not hot) water.
• Mop the floor and allow it to air dry.

Heavy Cleaning:

• For dirt buildup, mix 2-4 ounces of cleaner with warm water, mop, and let dry.
• To remove tape residue, apply cleaner full strength to a cloth, rub the area, then rinse with warm water.

Deep Cleaning:

• If the floor has been in storage or heavily soiled, use a heavy-duty cleaner.
• Mix 1 cup of cleaner with cold water and mop the floor, followed by a rinse using 1 ounce of household vinegar per gallon of water.
• For tough stains, apply the cleaner directly to a cloth, scrub the spot, and rinse with vinegar water.