Sprung flooring for dance classes
Dance specialists agree that sprung flooring is an essential facility for dance programmes beyond about year 6.
In essence, sprung flooring is a floor that absorbs a small degree of impact.
Any dance floor should have a surface that is in good condition, free of protrusions, splinters, or nail heads. It must be kept clean. Most floors are made of timber and the surface should be sealed but not highly polished (because of danger of slipping). If a floor is too slippery, it may be covered with an artificial mat. But note that carpet is not suitable because it can cause friction burns and create a false sense of safety.
Sprung flooring need not be regarded as a luxury – it is an excellent investment and there are inexpensive options. In fact, some simple sprung flooring systems are actually cheaper than the thick, spongy vinyl flooring used in some gymnasiums.
Remember it is possible to cover a sprung floor on occasions if the space is to be used for other functions that require carpeting. The reverse is less practicable.
Commercially laid sprung flooring is available and is recommended for theatres and other formal performance facilities, and purpose-built dance studios. If you wish to examine a sprung floor, contact one of the schools in the 'Gallery of school examples' that have purpose-build dance studios.
Cheaper alternatives are suitable for basic dance classrooms, rehearsal rooms, and multi-purpose arts facilities, especially to cover concrete floors.
One way of dealing with an existing concrete floor is to lay framing on rubber washers over the concrete base, and lay particle board on top. Ideally, sprung floors should not attached to wall framing (in order to prevent transmission of impact).