The first day of school is the deadline. Plan every step back from it.
Plan backward from the first day
A summer job has a fixed end date, so build the schedule in reverse. Each step needs its own block of time, and a late step pushes every step after it.
- 1. Samples: order free samples and approve the product.
- 2. Order: place the order early enough to cover the lead time.
- 3. Delivery: book the delivery for a day when staff can receive it.
- 4. Settle: let the material relax or acclimate in the room.
- 5. Install: install, then clean the floor.
- 6. Air out: ventilate the rooms before students return.
Order early
Every product page shows the lead time when you select a color and a size. Use that number to set your order date. The Rubber Gym Rolls page notes that orders over 1,000 sq. ft. may need extra processing time before they ship.
| Choose Quick Ship Pre-Cut rubber if… | Choose custom-cut rubber if… |
|---|---|
| The install date is in the next two weeks | The job is more than three or four weeks out |
| A launch-palette color works for the room | You need a color outside the launch palette |
| Standard lengths (10, 15, 25, 50 ft) fit the space | You need a specific length to avoid seams |
Give us your install dates and we will plan the order and delivery around them.
Leave time for the floor to settle
The Rubber Gym Rolls installation guide says to loose lay the rolls and let them relax for 24–48 hours before you cut them. Our Quick Ship post tells home-gym buyers to let a roll relax overnight. For sheet vinyl, our buying guide says to let the sheet acclimate for 24 hours before you cut it.
Air out before students return
New rubber has a stronger smell that fades over time. Air out new mats in a well-ventilated area with open windows or fans. A few days is ideal, but even a few hours can help.