flooring for skating

Question
Hello

I'm looking to open a roller skating rink and would like to know what flooring should I use... Should it be parquet or something else? Are there any requirements for skating flooring? Also, may be you know some companies which deal with this?

Thanks,

Shushanik

Answer
Hi Shushanik,
  There are various types of flooring you can use depending on your preference and budget.  The ideal floor is made of wood.  All wood floors, once they are laid, are then coated to protect the floor and to keep the skater from slipping. Most rinks use a product called "Roll On" or something similar.  It's a type of polyurethane that is spread evenly over the entire floor.

  Another type of floor is cement, which is less expensive and is also coated with  polyurethane.  I have skated on Parquet flooring, but most skaters prefer something a little smoother.  Parquet seems to have a bumpy feel to it even after coating it.  

  If you plan on using your rink floor just for public sessions then the size or type of floor doesn't really matter.  If you plan on having professionals teach private lessons to future competitive skaters or plan on having skating competitions at your rink then it would be ideal to have a wood floor approximately 80' x 180'.  

  Here is a web site with a lot of information about building a roller rink.  http://www.seskate.com/build/index.html

  Here is another web site for rink building and consulting where you can get more information
http://www.rinkconsulting.com/

Good Luck....If I can help any further, please let me know

Pat