Resilience Properties of Commercial Resilient Flooring

Resilience is a property involving the elastic energy in a material, which causes it to regain its original shape after having been indented by a high pressure load. Resilience, in its broadest sense, consists of properties beyond recovery from indentation.

Impact Loads

Impact loads are momentary indentations like those produced from walking traffic. These impact pressures are high (often as much as several thousand pounds per square inch), and the smaller or sharper the impact area, the more damaging the indentation.

NOTE: The extremely high forces exerted by high heels or spiked shoes (1,000 psi [70.3 kg/sq cm] or more) may visibly damage resilient floorings and other commercial floor covering. 

Static Loads

Static loads are any loads remaining in a stationary position for long periods of time. Static load limit values have been established to aid in the selection and protection of resilient flooring for use under these conditions. 

Rolling Loads

INITIAL 72 HOURS – Newly installed flooring should not be exposed to routine rolling traffic (carts, litters, gurneys, etc.) for at least 72 hours after installation to allow setting and drying of adhesives.

INITIAL 72 HOURS AND THEREAFTER – The bearing surface area of wheels is deceptively small, resulting in higher compressive forces than may be anticipated. Therefore, when moving heavy fixtures or appliances over resilient flooring on casters or dollies, the flooring should be protected with 1/4 in. (6.35 mm) or thicker plywood, hardboard or other underlayment panels.

NOTE: AHF Prodducts cannot accept responsibility for floor damage resulting from the use of inappropriate, improperly designed, or inadequate floor protection devices. Since rolling-type casters and certain floor rests on furniture, appliances and equipment may damage resilient flooring, any warranty as to their suitability rests with the furniture, appliance or equipment manufacturer.

Updated on October 26, 2022