Outdoor Event Flooring Done Right: Best Installation Practices
If you live in Australia, you would know that the climate here is unpredictable. There are days when you even face four seasons in one go, which makes organising outdoor events a big challenge.
Uneven terrain and heavy foot traffic may also pose problems when designing the floor of your outdoor events. Floor material options such as Supa-Trac, i-Trac track mats, and bog mats are available to avoid such disasters.
However, picking the best one can be daunting. Dig in as we explore floorings and their installation practices together. We will also find out why professionals like No Fuss Event Hire are your saviour.
Understanding Different Types of Outdoor Event Flooring
Luckily, outdoor event flooring comes in various types. Each is designed to address specific challenges related to uneven floors, foot traffic, and weather fluctuations in Australia.
Supa-Trac Flooring
Supa-Trac flooring is lightweight, quite versatile, and quick to install. You can use it for various purposes, including:
- Event staging areas
- Pedestrian pathways
- Temporary walkways
Furthermore, this flooring is ideal for large events as the setup is quite quick. Every panel is made from polypropylene copolymer. The material provides a durable, non-slip surface that supports pedestrian traffic and light vehicles.
The flooring system is quite permeable to light, air, and grass. It allows minimum damage to the grass underneath it, making it ideal for parks and sensitive ground areas.
i-Trac Track Mats
If your event requires heavy machinery going in and out of the main location, you may need heavy-duty material for flooring. In that case, i-Trac track mats may perfectly suit your requirements.
The mats are durable and have a slip-resistant surface to support heavy machinery and traffic easily.
This flooring system also offers excellent traction, preventing big trucks from getting stuck in the soft ground.
The material is compatible with grass and resistant to chemicals, making it a perfect option for various environments.
Bog Mats
Suppose your event location has a muddy and wet floor. To overcome this, you may need stable flooring over unstable and soft terrain. Bog mats may make a good choice in that case.
These mats are large, portable platforms usually made from composite materials and wood. They are quite durable, so even heavy machinery can navigate them easily.
Bog mats cause minimum damage to the vegetation underneath, reducing environmental damage as much as possible. They also help prevent slip hazards, making your event floor safe for everyone.
Pre-Installation Planning and Site Assessment
When choosing the right floor, you must consider a few factors. For that, you may need to undergo a site assessment.
Conducting a Site Assessment
When conducting a site assessment, factors like the soil condition, ground slope, and weather conditions in the area should be evaluated. If the floor is too slippery, bog mats may make a good choice.
Similarly, if it is uneven, i-Trac track mats may be suitable.
Some areas of the location may require different types of flooring for optimal safety and stability. Make sure you map them down separately.
Choosing the Right Flooring Solution
As mentioned earlier, pick the flooring that meets the requirements of your event and its ground. If your expected foot and vehicle traffic is high, choose a solid and durable flooring system like i-trac track mats. Similarly, if you worry about the stability of the ground, bog mats may be a good option.
Budget and Logistics Planning
Keep your budget in mind when considering the right flooring. I-Trac flooring is generally more expensive than bog mats or Supa-Trac. That’s because the material is much more durable and long-lasting. However, if your budget doesn’t allow you to choose it, go for the other two options.
You must also plan logistics for efficiently delivering and removing flooring materials. This expense should be added to your overall cost.
Installation Best Practices for Each Type of Flooring
You must follow some rules when installing different types of floors. Please know them to avoid any disaster.
Supa-Trac Flooring Installation
The process of installing these panels is easy.
- Start with preparing the ground, making it free from debris or stones.
- Plan the layout as per the size of the ground.
- Supa-Trac panels come with an easy-to-use interlocking system. It allows the panels to connect by simply pushing or tapping them into their place. Use it to interlock them.
- Keep adding panels to cover your desired area.
- Once done, make adjustments as necessary to uneven ground.
i-Trac Track Mats Installation
Here are the installation steps for this flooring type.
- Prepare the ground for a smooth installation.
- Now, lay the i-Trac mats. Start from the centre.
- Press the tiles firmly into place and then use a mallet to ensure a perfect fit.
- You may apply adhesive to ensure a smooth application.
Bog Mats Installation
The best way to apply the bog mats installation is as follows:
- Clear the floor properly so it is smooth.
- Stabilise the ground as required.
- Begin placing the mats and then align them before levelling them properly.
- You can use anchors to secure the mats as required.
- Adjust the mats for any gaps. Fill them up by using soil.
- Ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions at every step to ensure smooth application.
Safety and Maintenance Considerations During Events
When creating a floor for events, you must be very careful regarding safety and maintenance. Here are the best practices to follow.
- Inspect the floor regularly. This is important to ensure the floor’s stability, especially after rain.
- Make sure your team cleans and maintains the floor regularly. This will help maintain its condition for a long time. Make sure that they use minimum chemicals, as some floors distort easily.
- If a mat comes off, fix it immediately using adhesives. This will prevent the issue from getting out of hand.
- Fix any unstable area with soil or cement so the flooring stays intact for a long time.
Post-Event Flooring Removal and Site Restoration
Once the event is done, remove your flooring so you can use it again. The process involves clearing the floor first and then using a knife to cut the material into manageable sections. This is followed by peeling up the floor and removing any adhesive residue.
The process requires patience and time. However, if you have a skilled team, the task will be finished sooner than you can imagine.
Once the floor is removed, restore the site by addressing any uneven surfaces or cracks. Repair damage before giving the original ground a final cleanup.
Also, consider using eco-friendly disposal methods and recycling options for flooring materials.
Get Expert Help with Outdoor Event Flooring
The installation and removal process of event flooring can sometimes be very daunting. So, to avoid the hassle, your best bet is to have a team of professionals on board. The experienced team can help you get the best flooring according to your event’s and location’s requirements within a specific time.
If you haven’t done event flooring before, call No Fuss Event Hire today. We offer the best flooring solutions to conduct a successful event without worrying. Contact us to learn more about our flawless installation and removal services.
Leave a Reply