Anyone who plans to renovate or create a public dance space should think about what flooring they’ll use. The dance surface affects the safety and quality of both professional and casual events or shows. What dance flooring option is right for you? It depends on your project’s purpose.
Check out a few examples of typical dance environments that need specific flooring. It may change how you plan for your event or approach your budgeting process. The best kind of flooring will maintain its quality and keep everyone safe, no matter how long you plan to use the space.
Home Dance Studio: Laminate
An in-home dance studio gives you more time to practice and hone your skills. No one should dance over flooring that could lead to injuries, especially if you practice alone. While you consider your construction or renovation plans, think about using laminate flooring in your studio. It can resemble wood, stone or even cement and easily fits into place. Just make sure that you learn how to clean it or the wrong products will make it slippery.
Professional Dance Studio: Vinyl
Soft, commercial-grade vinyl flooring is another budget-friendly option that’s perfect for professional dance studios. It’s easy to work with and pliable during installation, but tough under daily use. You can also get cushioned vinyl flooring to reduce noise during large classes or rehearsals. Ensure that your final purpose is slip-controlled if the new or renovated room will house point or ballet classes.
Wedding Reception: Oak Tiles
Anyone planning a wedding, operating a venue or running a DJ business can consider portable wood tiles for the reception area. They lock into place on top of any surface and provide a stable, sturdy place for everyone to have fun. Set them up outside in the grass or over a carpeted dining area. The treated wood will be non-stick and often includes edging ramps so anyone can enter the dance floor.
photo from our sister blog The White Wren / photographer Megan Kay Photography
School Dance: Maple Hardwood
Grade school dances often happen in the gym, which needs durable flooring. Maple hardwood is the most popular choice because it retains its shock resistance through basketball games and dances. It’s difficult to scratch and springs back from sudden weight or changing pressure points from a sports event. The give and flex create a better environment for running and dancing without putting extra pressure on anyone’s joints.
Indoor Concert Venue: Vinyl Tile
Concert venues should make guests comfortable and improve the performer’s acoustics. The audience typically stands for hours on end, battling the loud crowd to hear the music and dance along with it. Vinyl tile can help with that. It carries sound waves while reducing impact noise, benefiting both performers and attendees during a concert.
Theater Stage: Sprung Flooring
Any number of movements and dances happen during theater performances. Major musicals and grade school one-act plays can use sprung flooring to ensure a safer environment. Either air or foam will fit between the flooring and the concrete beneath. The slight give and cushioning allows for better balance, support and safety during everything from mid-dance jumps to flips in hip hop recitals.
Consult With a Professional
If you’re still wondering what dance flooring option is right for you, consult a professional. They’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each type so you get the best flooring for your needs.
header photo by Alex Thornton from our sister blog The White Wren
