5' Rubber Rolls: Sleeker & More Efficient Option

In 1836, Edwin Chaffee developed and patented a calendar machine that mechanically processed rubber into sheets. Several years later, Charles Goodyear discovered the process of vulcanizing rubber in 1839. His process transformed raw rubber into a durable material suitable for commercial uses by heating the rubber with sulfur. Together, they collaborated to make calendaring rubber sheets more viable. 

For decades, 48-inch wide (or 4-foot) rubber rolls have been the standard width available for rubber sheeting. This popular size likely arose to become the norm from production efficiency, handling, and practical utility in industry throughout the 19th century. More recently, a growing market trend for 60-inch wide (or 5-foot) rubber flooring rolls has become a desirable option for consumers prioritizing efficiency and a high-end look. 

Let’s take a closer look at how you can benefit from 5-foot-wide rubber rolls in your flooring application.  

5' Wide Rubber Roll Key Advantages

Choosing between 5-foot-wide rubber rolls and 4-foot-wide rubber rolls may not appear to be obvious beyond the 12” width difference. These are the key advantages of using a wider rubber roll for your floor: 

Faster, More Efficient Installation

With a wider roll, you can cover more square footage with each sheet of rubber. This is a huge timesaver that will greatly speed up the flooring project – especially in large, open spaces – and save on labor costs.

Less Seams for Cleaner Aesthetic 

More square footage per roll reduces the number of rolls needed to cover the floor and creates less seams. A more seamless look creates a professional, high-end room aesthetic.

Less Waste for Greater Cost Savings 

Wider rubber rolls can reduce the number of cuts needed for an installation. This can lead to less waste in scrap rubber, greater material efficiency and less labor costs. 

Greater Durability and Safety 

Less seams can lead to a longer floor life with fewer places for debris/water to accumulate. Fewer seams in the floor reduces the potential for lifting and tripping hazards.  

Greater Cost-effectiveness for Large Spaces

For large spaces, using more expensive 5-foot rolls can actually be more economical. The cost savings from less labor, less material waste, and less maintenance with fewer seams can offset the cost of the larger rubber rolls.  

Choosing Your Rubber Roll Width

5' wide rubber rolls are made for large, open spaces where less seams create an ultra-professional look. The wider rolls are heavier to handle and will cost slightly more. The higher cost may be offset by the lower cost for installation, less material waste and reduced maintenance from dirt build-up around the seams.

4' wide rubber rolls are ideal for smaller, irregular spaces where more cuts will create less waste. The narrower rolls are easier to work with and generally more economical. The lighter roll weight makes 4-foot rolls a better option for a one-person installation.   

Which roll size you choose will depend on your installation space, preference for desirable aesthetic, who installs the flooring and your overall project budget.   

RFS is committed to supplying the highest-quality, American-made rubber flooring at affordable prices.

Check out all of our products and our other blog topics for additional information and reach out to us if you have any questions.