©Tarkett Sports

Just as a man’s face might sport a “five o’clock shadow” in the late afternoon, some sports floorings develop a similar issue over time that regular cleaning can’t seem to fix.

In the sports flooring industry, this issue is often caused by linear embossing on the surface, which can lead to unsightly and unsanitary conditions.

At Tarkett Sports, we understand this issue all too well, and that’s why we have developed a unique solution for it. In this article, we will explore the challenges faced by sports flooring, the concept of the “five o’clock shadow,” and how Tarkett Sports’ Omnisports can keep your sports flooring looking pristine.

ports flooring experiences a considerable amount of wear and tear due to the high-intensity activities that take place on it. Whether it’s a basketball court, a gymnasium, or a fitness studio, the flooring’s surface texture can be a critical factor in maintaining its longevity and aesthetic appeal. Linear embossing, which is a common feature in sports flooring, can create a problem known as the “five o’clock shadow”.

©Tarkett Sports – Omnisports’ exclusive surface embossing

The term “five o’clock shadow” is typically used to describe the rough and dark stubble of facial hair that appears on a man’s face in the late afternoon, signalling the need for another shave.

In the context of sports flooring, it refers to the unsightly and unsanitary consequence of textured grooves and linear embossing on the surface. These grooves can trap dirt, stains, and dust, making it challenging to keep the flooring clean and aesthetically pleasing.

At Tarkett Sports, we have recognised the need for a solution that combats the “five o’clock shadow” effect on sports flooring. That’s why we have developed a unique surface embossing for our Omnisports flooring that offers superior resistance to stains and scratches whatever the colour or pattern chosen. Here’s how it works:

• Repelling Dirt: The specific embossing of Omnisports’ surface repels dirt, preventing it from settling into the surface. This means less time and effort spent on cleaning and maintenance, ensuring your sports flooring maintains its fresh look.
• Aesthetic Appearance Over Time: Omnisports is designed to retain its aesthetic appearance over time, regardless of the colour or pattern you choose. The specific embossing on our flooring combined with our exclusive TopClean XP™ surface treatment offers superior resistance to stains and scratches, so your sports flooring continues to look as good as the day it was installed.
• Durability: Omnisports is built to withstand the rigorous demands of indoor sports activities. Its durability ensures that your flooring remains in top condition even with heavy use.

The “five o’clock shadow” on sports flooring is a common challenge, but it’s one that can be easily overcome with the right flooring solution. Tarkett Sports’ Omnisports not only resists the development of this unsightly effect but also offers durability and easy maintenance.

Say goodbye to the endless struggle with cleaning and maintenance and embrace a sports flooring solution that stays as fresh as it looked on day one.

Choose Tarkett Sports’ Omnisports for sports flooring that stands up to the test of time, maintaining its beauty and functionality for years to come.

Pierre Mazeaud Sports centre – Saint-Cyr L’école ©Stéphane Aboudaram