Centaur Floor Systems

Product is Not Created Equal

2011-06-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

June 20, 2011

As many of you realize my industry background includes years of service within the health club and fitness equipment sales industries. In the health club business we sell memberships by highlighting facility "features and benefits". In the commercial fitness equipment business we sell product by promoting the "features and benefits". Come to think of it in just about all sales- from cars to insurance to real estate- we sell and buy though "features and benefits". Oddly enough when it comes to floor covering products; no one ever wants to hear of "features and benefits". What's even stranger; proper flooring is more vital to most facilities than any other product. Consider this... when building a new facility you seek flooring that offers you a long life span, aesthetics, and is functional. Once you install your flooring the last thing you want to do is replace it in a few years. The costs in demolition, replacement, and facility down time significantly outweigh that of the purchase of treadmills, ellipticals, and strength equipment. In existing facilities to replace flooring is a major undertaking as it may require extensive equipment moving, extended facility downtime and a major inconvenience to your membership.

Whether you purchase your flooring from my company or a competitor. Remember, all product is not created equal! Before you buy you must analyze your exact need and match that need with a floor covering that offers you functionality, reliability, longevity, and affordability. Request the product "features and benefits". Once you decide on the product negotiate your best price and make sure that the product is being installed by a qualified company that guarantees its workmanship. By the way when it comes to price, appreciate that all sales people are not created equal. Some soft sell and start high hoping to consummate the deal somewhere in the middle. Some, like me give you their best price upfront.

Let's discuss analyzing your exact need. For example you want a floor covering that will be utilized only for dance and/or non-weight group exercise. Then I strongly suggest that you consider a wood product. Typically a floating floor with foam absorption built in. A product like this should cost in the $7.00-$10.00 per square foot price range. Installation is typically based upon volume of product and will range between a low of $1.50 per square foot to a high of $2.50 per square foot. Then you must factor freight. With the current high cost of fuel, freight is running anywhere between $.40 per square foot to $.70 per square foot dependent upon product volume, origination, and destination. Total average price point for this type of product would be $9.00 per square foot to $12.00 per square foot. If someone tells you that they can sell you a floating wood floor system with resiliency foam built in delivered and installed for $5.00- $7.00 per square foot I will tell you that the product is of very poor quality and will not last. Remember you "pay for what you get".

Let's consider a weight room floor. There are many types of weight room floors. First you must analyze if this is a free weight room floor or a selectorized weight room floor or a combination of both. If it is strictly a free weight room and you want the highest quality product that is functional and aesthetically pleasing then I suggest rubber tile that comes in either all black or percentages of color. This tile typically is 24" x 24" x 1" and offers extreme durability and sound proofing qualities. This type of product can be adhered to your sub floor by either utilizing adhesive or the floor can be more portable by utilizing dowels. Pricing of this product should cost out between $5.95- $7.95 per square foot depending upon percentage of color. Installation will be dependent upon product volume and cost out between $.75- $1.50 per square foot and freight again is dependent upon volume and will cost out between $.40-$.85 per square foot. Remember you will also require adhesive or dowels at a cost of approximately $.40 per square foot. Total average cost ranging from $7.55- $9.75 per square foot. If this type of product may not be within your budget there is either interlocking rubber or rolled rubber. However, even with rubber tiles or rolled rubber all product is not created equal. Since this type of rubber is recycled; it is imperative that you purchase a rubber that offers elastomer in their manufacturing process. The elastomer will offer the recycled product greater elasticity and resiliency and will not crack over time.

In closing remember price alone, while sacrificing quality will cost you more in the long run. Do your homework- analyze your exact needs, and then base your purchase on "features and benefits"; product references; fair and equitable price point; quality of installation company and their references. Remember if the price sounds too good to be true then it probably is!

Contact me (Gregg Maloley) by phone (781) 727-8250 or email at greggm@centaurfloors.com if I can be of any assistance. For sales representation outside of my territory please contact Centaur Floor Systems directly at (800) 536-9007.

Boflex Hardwood Sports Flooring System

2011-05-13T11:43:00.000-07:00

What is meant by “climatizing” when referring to wood installation? (G. Beck, NY).
Climatizing refers to acclimating the wood to the conditions of the environment in which it will be installed. Traditional wood floors require a 2-3 week time frame to acclimate. In most cases, the room should be “climate controlled” meaning the HVAC should be working and turned on for a few days prior to introducing the wood to the environment. The ideal environment for the floor is a temperature between 65 and 80 degrees with humidity around 55%. It’s important to maintain that environment at all times to minimize the effects of change which could include cupping of the wood or excessive spacing between the joints.

Boflex is an all wood, engineered floor। The manufacturing process increases the stability of the floor by up to 70%. Consistent environmental conditions are still important, but the increased stability of the Boflex floor can lesson the chance for damage.

Navy Seal Boflex Hardwood Floor Annapolis

Flooring for your strength equipment area

2011-05-13T11:05:00.001-07:00

Flooring for your strength equipment area

When we discuss strength equipment areas within a fitness center we typically categorize into two areas: Pin-selectorized and Free Weight.There are a many options for floor coverings within your strength equipment area. Depending upon your budget and specific needs I will offer a capsulated outline for your review.

· Rolled recycled rubber: Excellent floor covering option for both your Pin-Selectorized and Free Weight areas. Our product is Rubberflex S and it comes in 4’ wide rolls by desired length and is adhered utilizing a perma bond adhesive. This product is a staple within our industry and offers a sound low-cost solution for this area of your facility. Please keep in mind that up to a 20% fleck and 8mm (5/16”) is recommended within this product category and price range. Once you consider 30% color fleck or more you have eliminated the low-cost price point. Also, once you have recycled rubber with over 20% color content you should utilize a sealer to keep the color vibrant and you have added an additional labor installation cost. Rubberflex S is a low life cycle cost product. There are many colors to choose from within the 10-20% fleck range. Rubberflex S qualifies for LEED credits. Features sound and shock absorbent qualities; easily installed; slip resistant wet or dry and extremely durable.

· Sport Weave: Excellent floor covering option for your Pin-Selectoroized area. I do not recommend utilization within a Free Weight room. An upgrade to the lower cost Rubberflex S recycled roll good. Sport Weave offers you the comfortable appearance of carpet with the versatility, ease of maintenenance and durability of a rubber surface. Its polypropylene fiber withstands moisture, stains, and the long-term placement of machines. The fast drying surface is antimicrobial, so it won’t rot, stain or mildew, and can be cleaned employing standard methods- backed by an industry best 7-year abusive wear warranty. Sport Weave comes in a variety of colors and textures, and can be custom cut into patterns, curves, borders and even logos. Sport Weave is most commonly utilized in a tile at 19-11/16” square by 9.2mm (3/8” thick) and you adhere the product with an inexpensive release bond adhesive.

· Rubberflex Elite: Excellent floor covering option for both the Pin-Selectorized and Free Weight areas. Designed with a patented wear layer to provide unlimited design options. Elite is a modular 2’ x 2’ x 1” tile that can be laid over your existing floor, saving you time and money. They’re easier and faster to install than traditional glue down floors because no adhesive is needed. Plus its unqiue dowel rod fastening system gives you the ability to quickly move or replace tiles as desired. These 1” thick footed tiles are engineered to provide the ultimate in durability. They also surpass the noise and shock absorptive qualities of any other fitness floor. Elite can withstand the constant dropping of weights and pounding of equipment without showing wear and tear. Elite tiles are modular and feature excellent sound and shock absorbency; they are slip resistant wet or dry; easy to install and low in maintenance; qualify for LEED credits and are odorless.

· P’Eco: Excellent floor covering option for both the Pin-Selectorized and Free Weight areas. Vibrant color rubber roll good which is guaranteed to illuminate your strength equipment areas. P’Eco is manufactured by laminating 4mm colored rubber with recycled sports underlayment. Available in three standard thicknesses (8mm, 10mm, 12mm). Select from six standard brilliant colors. P’Eco qualifies for LEED credits. Features sound and shock absorbent qualities; easily installed; slip resistant wet or dry and extremely durable. Adhered to sub floor utilizing perma bond adhesive.

· Decora/Decora S: Excellent floor covering option for both the Pin-Selectorized and Free Weight areas. These are rubber tiles that offer all color. Decora tiles feature a two-tone marbleized finish and are virtually industrucatble.Decora S is approx 35” x 35” x 8mm (5/16”). Its construction is a virgin rubber top layer with recycled rubber base. These attractive rubber tiles have a solid color with an accent speckle top finish, and a “dimpled” hammer-tone texture making them resilient and slip resistant. A virgin rubber top layer vulcanized to a recycled bottom layer makes Decora S durable, safe, quiet, and easy to maintain. Adhered to sub floor utilizing perma bond adhesive.

· Ecoflor: Excellent floor covering option for both the Pin-Selectorized and Free Weight areas. Top of the line rubber tiles manufactured with first grade recycled components to minimize product waste. Available in two textures and several colors. Ecoflor is far and away the most vibrant and durable rubber tiles available within the marketplace. Ecoflor floor coverings provide slip resistance and exceptional wearability. Ecoflor has a factory coating which helps protect it from scratches. Does not need waxes or coatings. Always found within high end fitness facilities, schools and colleges. Ecoflor qualifies for LEED credits.

For detailed information on these products and more please go to www.centaurfloors.com or call our toll free California number (800) 536-9007 and speak directly to John Donati।

new” economic world

2011-05-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

In this “new” economic world that we live in, we are redefining our meaning of wealth. The winner in life is no longer the one that dies with the most toys. Values are changing. Well kept, well built older homes now carry more prestige than the new home. Classic cars warrant more “ahs” than the new cars. We may actually be starting to understand the value of life itself, rather than value the stuff that we thought we had to have. The reality is, a rich person is not the one that has the most, but the one that needs the least.

What's New: PlayGrind & Elite

2011-04-21T12:07:00.000-07:00

Leasing options available to buy Sports Flooring

With warmer weather approaching, we are getting increased interest in the Playgrind playground tile. Centaur has a couple of good options for your playground area.

Playgrind is a 2'x2'x2 1/2" tile is a recycled rubber tile with a 3mm "skin" of speckled rubber laminated to the surface. It is also available without the "skin" and is known as "pigmented". The "pigmented" tile is only for outdoor use, whereas the "skin" version can be used in or out. The 2 1/2" thick version has a 6 foot fall rating. Thicker versions are available upon request.

Also available are Elite tiles are a 1 inch thick tile that are great for indoor or outdoor weight training areas. Again the "pigmented" version would be used only outdoors, with the "skin" version being used in or outdoors. Check the website for additional information on both of these super tough, super safe tiles.

Centaur Floor Systems

963 North San Marcos Road

Santa Barbara, CA 93111

800-536-9007

805-957-0182

www.centaurfloors.com

info@centaurfloors.com

Feature: Flooring for your Cardio Equipment Area

2011-04-20T13:47:00.000-07:00

There are a multitude of options for floor coverings within your cardio equipment area. Depending upon your budget and specific needs I will offer a capsulated outline for your review.

• Rolled recycled rubber: Our product is Rubberflex S and it comes in 4' wide rolls by desired length and is adhered utilizing a perma bond adhesive. This product is a staple within our industry and offers a sound low-cost solution for this area of your facility. Please keep in mind that up to a 20% fleck and 8mm (5/16") is recommended within this product category and price range. Once you consider 30% color fleck or more you have eliminated the low-cost price point. Also, once you have recycled rubber with over 20% color content you should utilize a sealer to keep the color vibrant and you have added an additional labor installation cost. Rubberflex S is a low life cycle cost product. There are many colors to choose from within the 10-20% fleck range. Rubberflex S qualifies for LEED credits. Features sound and shock absorbent qualities; easily installed; slip resistant wet or dry and extremely durable.

• Sport Weave: An upgrade to the lower cost Rubberflex S recycled roll good. Sport Weave offers you the comfortable appearance of carpet with the versatility, ease of maintenenance and durability of a rubber surface. Its polypropylene fiber withstands moisture, stains, and the long-term placement of machines. The fast drying surface is antimicrobial, so it won't rot, stain or mildew, and can be cleaned employing standard methods- backed by an industry best 7-year abusive wear warranty. Sport Weave comes in a variety of colors and textures, and can be custom cut into patterns, curves, borders and even logos. Sport Weave is most commonly utilized in a tile at 19-11/16" square by 9.2mm (3/8" thick) and you adhere the product with an inexpensive release bond adhesive.

• P'Eco: Vibrant color rubber roll good, which is guaranteed to illuminate your cardio equipment area. P'Eco is manufactured by laminating 4mm colored rubber with recycled sports underlayment. Available in three standard thicknesses (8mm, 10mm, 12mm). Select from six standard brilliant colors. P'Eco qualifies for LEED credits. Features sound and shock absorbent qualities; easily installed; slip resistant wet or dry and extremely durable. Adhered to sub floor utilizing perma bond adhesive.

• Decora/Decora S: These are rubber tiles that now offer all color. Decora is approx. 35" x 35" x 3/8". Decora tiles feature a two-tone marbleized finish and are virtually industrucatble.Decora S is approx 35" x 35" x 8mm (5/16"). Its construction is a virgin rubber top layer with recycled rubber base. These attractive rubber tiles have a solid color with an accent speckle top finish, and a "dimpled" hammer-tone texture making them resilient and slip resistant. A virgin rubber top layer vulcanized to a recycled bottom layer makes Decora S durable, safe, quiet, and easy to maintain. Adhered to sub floor utilizing perma bond adhesive.

• Ecoflor: Top of the line rubber tiles manufactured with first grade recycled components to minimize product waste. Available in two textures and several colors. Ecoflor is far and away the most vibrant and durable rubber tiles available within the marketplace. Ecoflor floor coverings provide slip resistance and exceptional wearability. Ecoflor has a factory coating which helps protect it from scratches. Does not need waxes or coatings. Always found within high end fitness facilities, schools and colleges. Ecoflor qualifies for LEED credits.

For detailed information on these products and more please go towww.centaurfloors.com or call our toll free California number (800) 536-9007 and speak directly to John Donati.

Rubberadhesives

2011-04-08T10:41:00.000-07:00

Question:

Why is it that the different floors require different adhesives? Aren't most of them rubber floors? If an adhesive works for one floor, shouldn't it work for the others? - C. Neilsen, Mays Landing, NU

Answer:

For the most part, we use polyurethane adhesives with our rubber floors। It not only has good adhesion, but it acts as a moisture barrier as well. Each manufacturer has done testing of different brands (some even manufacturer their own adhesive) and recommends what they consider the best. To maintain the warranty, the manufacturer will require that we use their recommended adhesive. Hence the different size units and the variable costs.

http://www.centaurfloors.com/news/sept10/adhesives.htm

SportWeave

2011-04-08T10:37:00.000-07:00

Feature: The Absolute Best Floor Covering for Your Cardio. and Selectorized Weight Areas

Since we began selling Sport Weave about 7 years ago I have sold the product to over 300 facilities. For many years it was a foregone conclusion that we would utilize either recycled rubber or carpet within our cardio and selectorized areas. Recycled rolled rubber is a durable product- but its primarily black background feels too institutionalized. Carpet when initially installed is great until it shows stains or zippers. Sport Weave due to its inherent properties offers the durability of rubber with the look and feel of carpet. Its polypropylene fibers withstand moisture and stains and the fast-drying surface is anti-microbial- all backed by a 7-year abusive wear warranty. Sport Weave is available in two textures - Jazz and Slant - and over 12 appealing colors. Sport Weave does not zipper or snag which offers you endless opportunity to become creative within your pattern design.

Sport Weave tiles are comprised of a polypropylene fiber that is needle punched onto a waterproof rubber backing. Little transition is ever required as the tile is 3/8" thick and easily installed utilizing a multipurpose adhesive.

Please take a look at a sampling of our installations to see for yourself just how versatile Sport Weave can be.

Steve Ratner, owner of Suburban Athletic Club in Framingham, MA.

"I have known Gregg Maloley for over 25 years; I value his industry knowledge and respect his opinions on all facets of the fitness/health club business. Gregg recommended that I purchase his Sport Weave product and now I have over 14,000sf of Sport Weave within all areas of my club. From the entrance, foyer, cardio, weight room, child care and all hallways. I have had this flooring for over 5 years and highly recommend the Sport Weave product".

Contact me or any Centaur sales reps. to discuss your specific needs.

Regards,

Gregg Maloley
VP Sales
Cell: (781) 727-8250
Fax: (781) 453-0165
Email: greggm@centaurfloors.com
Web: www.centaurfloors.com

Centaur Floor Systems: Centaur Floors eco-friendly green LEEDS flooring

2011-04-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

Centaur Floor Systems: Centaur Floors eco-friendly green LEEDS flooring

Centaur Floors eco-friendly green LEEDS flooring

2011-04-01T14:02:00.000-07:00

Are Centaur's products Green?

Question: How does Centaur contribute to a Greener America?

- J.T., Urban, Il.

Answer:

Over the years, Centaur has sold a LOT of recycled rubber. Our Rubberflex line of products has some of our most popular options. But what you might not know is that recycled flooring is a major contributor to the "greening of America". The "Fun Facts" listed below highlight the benefits of using recycled rubber flooring.

One 36" car tire equals 20sf of rubber flooring.
Centaur's Rubberflex flooring can contribute up to 8 LEED points.
Centaur's rubber supplier recycles over 80 million pounds of scrap tire rubber, saving over 1 million barrels of oil and keeping over 2,000 trailer loads of discarded tires out of our nation's landfills.
Recycling that many tires and saving over 1 million barrels of oil- that is equal to heating 600 homes for the year!
It takes half a barrel of crude oil to produce the rubber for just one truck tire.

Producing one pound of recycled rubber versus one pound of new rubber requires only 29% of the energy.

Centaur Floor Systems

1-800-536-9007

www.centaurfloors.com

Centaur Floors G-Court Multipurpose Sports Floor

2011-04-01T13:51:00.000-07:00

G-Court: Multipurpose Sports Floor
By Gregg Maloley

Looking for an alternative to wood for your group x room? How about an affordable, durable floor covering for your multi-purpose room? Or a resilient covering for your indoor track; cardio area, or selectorized area? The product to seriously consider is G-Court.

G-Court provides an exceptional flooring solution for many areas within your facility. Its unique construction of high performance vinyl with a closed-cell foam backing provides excellent resiliency and minimizes the risk of injury without sacrificing performance by reducing stress on joints and eliminating skin abrasions. Don't let its low profile fool you; G-Court meets the DIN requirements for ball rebound standards, making it an outstanding solution for multi-purpose applications.

The textured top surface is anti-slip, and the built-in multi-layered foam backing does not require expensive underlayments. G-Court is constructed with two layers of closed cell vinyl sponge reinforced with one layer of non-woven fiberglass for dimensional stability, with an embossed vinyl top surface. Comes as a roll good; pre-cut at 6'7" x 49'2" and in thicknesses of 6.0mm; 6.75mm, and 8.0mm.

Its extremely hygienic, non-porous surface has bactericidal and fungicidal treatment. G-Court can be cleaned using conventional methods and never requires sanding or refinishing; keeping maintenance costs to a minimum. Available in six brilliant colors and two-wood grain surface options, this product can be easily mixed and matched for a fully customized installation.

Best of all.... G-Court features a 10 year wear warranty!

Centaur Floors Plank Tile Fusion Bonded Modular Tile Flooring

2011-04-01T13:31:00.000-07:00

Creating a "WOW" Factor with Plank & Tile

Feature Article

Gold's Gym in Stoughton, MA made a conscious choice to create an "upscale" facility. No "jock" image at this facility!

Gregg Maloley of Centaur assisted the owner with the selection of flooring for the facility. It included Plank luxury vinyl tile in a dark walnut for the reception area, the hallways, and the barber shop. Plank bamboo was used in the physical therapy offices. Tile luxury vinyl was used in the massage therapy rooms. To create a "wow" factor in the men's and women's locker rooms, Bolon luxury woven vinyl tiles were selected. The boxing area, cardio deck, selectorized section and the functional center were covered with Rubberflex Speckled S. The free weight area featured the 1 inch thick Elite tile. Now that made a statement! Even the stairs received custom treatment with a one piece nosing/tread/riser system from Nora.

Check out the photos accompanying this article to appreciate the classy look of this New England show place. Centaur is proud to have contributed to this awesome facility!

Pictures from Gold's Gym in Stoughton MA. We have Plank Dark Walnut in reception area, hallways and barber shop. Plank Natural Bamboo in Physical Therapy offices. Coastal Slate tile in Massage therapy rooms. Bolon in men's and women's locker rooms. Rubberflex S in boxing, cardio deck, selectorized and functional center. Rubberflex Elite in Free Weight area and Nora one piece stair treads and landings.

Centaur Floors Weightroom Flooring called Elite ST

2011-03-30T15:28:00.000-07:00

Centaur's Elite ST Sets a New Standard for Flooring?

Designed with a patented wear layer to provide unlimited design options, Elite Tiles offer a brand of visual excitement to any club interior. Available is 12 standard designs, Elite colors coordinate with fitness equipment as well as other flooring options. Plus these good looking tiles feature a pedestal underside, preventing unsightly cable clutter by routing fitness equipment wiring beneath the surface. Elite ST sets a new standard for fitness flooring. Elite St incorporates a patented polymeric wear surface construction into the design of the time-tested 2'x2'x1" tile system to produce the ultimate combination of strength and world class good looks in a resilient flooring system. Unlike the traditional speckled top surface of the Elite tile, Elite ST offers a solid color of warm earth tones in terra cotta, green, gray, and black. The Elite ST provides a high tech, environmentally conscious "attitude" in your facility. This is a flooring solution for today's world.

www.centaurfloors.com

1-800-536-9007

Centaur's Gymlastic Multipurpose Flooring

2011-03-30T15:25:00.000-07:00

Gymlastic Goes Green!

Gymlastic is one of our most popular floors. It consists of a recycled rubber bottom layer with a top layer of poured polyurethane. In some parts of the country, the solvent-based polyurethane was prohibited for environmental reasons. Well, that is no longer a problem! We now offer a water based polyurethane topcoat that has the same wear-ability as the solvent based, an array of new colors, and meets the environmental standards of all states including California. The Gymlastic floor is an ideal choice for a multi purpose facility that is looking for a safe sports surface that is easy to maintain and will stand up to the rigors of meetings, food spills, recreational activities and sports. And now, it's "Greener" than ever.

www.centaurfloors.com

1-800-536-9007

Centaur Floors has new Rubberflex Speckled S Colors

2011-03-30T14:40:00.000-07:00

Those of you west of the Rockies are aware that we have Rubberflex Speckled S inventoried on the west coast (Corona, CA). This was done to save our western customers on freight. Up until now, we have had limited color selection, 10% blue, 10% grey, and recently 10% red was added. Beginning March 1, 10% brown and 20% Peanut Crunch (brown/tan) are being included in the Corona inventory. This inventory will be 25 and 50 foot rolls. Our manufacturer's Rep has done an excellent job of working with us to expand our offering to our western customers. Thanks, Bill!

Rubberflex Speckled S

Centaur Floors

1-800-536-9007

Sport Eco Fusion Bonded Modular Tiles

2011-03-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

Centaur unveils their newest product innovation, The Sport Eco line of fusion bonded modular tiles. Manufactured in the U.S.A., Sport Eco products offer a textured flooring solution for health and fitness spaces exposed to high volumes of traffic. The surfacing features a fiber wear layer and recycled rubber backing, fused together using the patent-pending itstru Technology.

The newest addition to the Centaur line is setting new standards in recycled content containing 98% post-consumer recycled content. The Sport Eco product enables the Centaur brand to increase its portfolio of products to offer multiple solutions for the health club environment - from entryways and staff offices to weight rooms, locker rooms, and gymnasiums.

“What is itstru Technology?
A patent-pending, revolutionary innovation poised to transform the flooring industry, itstru Technology enables ECORE's proven recycled rubber product to be bonded with a diverse variety of textile wear layers. Unlike any process introduced in the flooring industry to date, the itstru technology combines two diverse surfacing systems to create one durable and environmentally sustainable product with a backing composed of a record-setting 97% post-consumer content.”

Centaur Floor Systems

John Donati

1-800-536-9007

www.centaurfloors.com

www.centaurmaintenancesupplies.com

Diversy Vision Matte is now Diversy Carefree Matte

2011-03-29T15:27:00.000-07:00

PRODUCT CHANGES - March 29, 2011

There have been some changes in the Diversy line of products we carry. We now offer a comparable product to Vision Matte. The new product is called Carefree Matte. Its the same price and is offered on our website.

2611-05 TASKI VISION MATTE
Diversy Vision Matte is no longer available. We have a comparable product made from the same manufacturer called Diversy Carefree Matte at the same price.
Floor Finish
Silky-matte shine floor finish/sealer. TASKI Vision Matte floor finish maintains a satin low gloss in areas where high shine is detrimental, e.g., nursing homes, hospitals, synthetic gym floors, etc. Vision Matte is highly recommedned on linoleum and rubber floors, but is also ideal for use on vinyl, PVC, natural and artificial stone floorings, and sealed wood floors. 1000 sq.ft. per gallon coverage. recommended to put 3 coats. This is sealer and has a mat finish - similar to a wax floor finish. Always clean your floor before applying a sealer such as Vision Matte. Use a lint free mop and a buffer can be used on a virgin rubber floor.
5 Gallon - Pail - $151.09 MSDS Sheets
Centaur Floor Systems LLC

John Donati

1-800-536-9007
http://www.centaurmaintenancesupplies.com/rubber.html

www.centaurfloors.com

Floor Coverings for your Non-Fitness Areas

2011-02-18T10:12:00.000-08:00

Starting this month and continuing through the spring we will feature floor covering alternatives for various areas of your fitness center. This month we will discuss your foyer; reception; control desk; juice bar; pro shop and walkway areas. The three alternatives are Sport Weave/SportEco; Plank and Tile.

SPORT WEAVE:

An inexpensive, multi-purpose rubber based floor covering most commonly offered as a tile. Combines the comfortable appearance of carpet with the versatility, ease of maintenance and durability of a rubber surface. Its polypropylene fibers can withstand moisture, stains, and mildew. A very durable product that can be utilized throughout your non-fitness floor areas. Sport Weave comes in two textures and many colors. You can't find a TOUGHER floor! Please check our web page for LEED accreditation information.

SPORT ECO:

Our newest product offering- Sport Eco line of fusion bonded modular tiles. These modular tiles feature a fiber wear layer and recycled rubber backing, fused together utilizing state of the art patented itstru Technology. Creating a floor system that features the superior durability and easy installation of recycled rubber, with the aesthetics and durability of a textile/fiber surfacing solution. Sport Eco trey and Dane products will initially be available in easily installed 23" x 23" interlocking tiles and 24" x 24" square-edge tiles. Please check our web page for LEED accreditation information.

TILE// PLANK:

Made from vinyl and available in 12" x 24"; 18" x 18"; 6" X 36" sizes. These products offer authentic, cutting edge standard designs. Environmentally sound: ISO 14001 manufacturing process and ISO 9001 certified manufacturing. Comes in many colors and designs with No wax, stain proof and non-slip options available. Please check our web page for LEED accreditation information.

Please see facility photos for ideas and go to our web page at www.centaurfloors.com for detailed product information and specifications. For further information please call us directly at (800) 536-9007.

Gregg Maloley
VP Sales
Cell: (781) 727-8250
Fax: (781) 453-0165
Email: greggm@centaurfloors.com
Web: www.centaurfloors.com

Centaur is New

2011-01-21T13:16:00.000-08:00

In Centaur Floors picture - Carla Lieblein, Peter Hernandez, Terri Cruz

Centaur is new. New location, new office, new environmental surroundings. We went from a bustling, beachside location to a peaceful, creek side, rural environment. Our new office is an indoor/outdoor combination that allows us to take advantage of the beautiful area where we are located. Our phone numbers have stayed the same, but the address has changed. The new address is listed in this newsletter. Still in serene Santa Barbara, just moved from the beach to the base of the mountains. Come visit us if you get out this way!

Centaur Floor Systems

963 N. San Marcos Rd

Santa Barbara, CA 93111

(805) 957-0182

Fax (805) 957-0125

Toll-Free (800) 536-9007

http://www.centaurfloors.com

SIX STEPS TO HELP YOU SELECT YOUR FITNESS FLOORING

2010-12-15T10:36:00.000-08:00

Selecting, purchasing and installing fitness flooring for your facility should be one of your most researched major decisions. Flooring is not only a costly expenditure; it is also a statement of your club to existing and future members.

• Make a list of every possible activity that occurs in the room in question. Sometimes a room has several physical activity offerings, such as group exercise, yoga, Pilates and multi-purpose. Once you list all the activities it will become easier to determine the appropriate flooring. For example, although recycled rubber flooring might be appropriate for activities within a strength area it does not provide the proper traction for pivoting and sliding that would be necessary for aerobics.

• Consider aesthetics. Does the proposed floor covering mesh with the general appearance of your facility? Floor coverings for fitness facilities have come a long way over the past 15-years. You have many options to choose from, select them wisely. Consult with your architect, designer and/or vendor before you make your decision.

• Consider alternatives. Consult with managers, owners of other fitness facilities about what floor coverings have worker well for them. Visit clubs in your area to see what they may be utilizing. Look at what has worn well and what has not and how the floors fit with the general look of the facility. Discard preconceptions you may have with various types of floor coverings. For example, you may initially want carpet in your cardio equipment room. Upon seeking alternatives you find that rolled rubber, rubber tiles; vinyl, or synthetic tiles may be a better solution.

• Get measurements or floor plans for the area in question. You need measurements when requesting proposals from vendors or manufacturers. Always make sure there is an overage factored into the footprint for waste and stock. You also may need wall base; threshold; transitions, etc. that needs to be factored into the product proposal and installation costs.

• Use the vendor or manufacturer as a consultant. That's really their job anyway. Ask for their suggestions on floor coverings for the area in question.

• Get references. With flooring more than anything else within your fitness facility. Get references on product, vendor, and/or manufacturer. Buy your flooring for a company that has industry experience and can offer you references.

The best way to be confident that you made the right choice for your facility is to gather as much information as possible. As you would when purchasing fitness equipment... become an educated buyer!

Gregg Maloley
VP Sales
Cell: (781) 727-8250
Fax: (781) 453-0165
Email: greggm@centaurfloors.com
Web: www.centaurfloors.com

BOFLEX SPORTS FLOOR Peak Performance in a Versatile Hardwood Floor System

2010-10-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

Looking for a wood sport floor system? Looking for a wood floor system that offers excellent shock absorption and resiliency? Looking for a wood floor system that is easy to maintain, lasts a long time, and is cost efficient? Look no further... BOFLEX!

The Boflex Wood Sport Floor system is the result of over 25 years of testing to perfect the ultimate in a pre-finished, high performance engineered hardwood sport floor system. Boflex has been engineered to accommodate the high demand for quality hardwood floor surfacing for aerobics studios, group ex rooms, basketball courts, dance studios, and a variety of other applications. Boflex is now the economical choice for a multi-use hardwood sport floor.

Utilizing a patented resilient foam channel understructure, Boflex is a unique floor system with the progressive resilience for safety, performance and comfort. The shock absorption channels allow even small children or lightweight athletes to gain immediate resilience. Tests carried out by numerous international sports institutes show that Boflex surpasses its rivals when it comes to shock absorption. The fact that Boflex exceeds all the requirements of D.I.N. standards is a testimony to the quality and engineering of this flooring system.

Features and Benefits

The majority of experts state that indoor sports flooring properties should be tested for shock absorption. The goal of the Boflex system is to work well for all user groups. Boflex is designed to be as well suited for children's activities as it is for withstanding the weight of a heavy grandstand. Due to its engineered cross-ply construction, Boflex is proven to be 70% more dimensionally stable when compared to solid hardwood floors, and the foam channel understructure creates a progressive resilience that allows athletes and users of all sizes to achieve cushioning.

The Boflex system can not be overloaded. The material evazoate 50 is a cross-linked, closed cell system (layers not laid parallel). This shock-absorption material can only be compressed to a maximum of 50%- this means that a Boflex floor can never be over-loaded. The construction can withstand an almost unlimited load.

Boflex unloaded:

The wood rests on each alternate Evazoate strip

Boflex normal loaded:

Whether all or alternate Evazoate strips are under restrain is dependent upon the type of Activity.

Boflex heavy loaded:

The way in which the Evazoate is constructed means that it can never be compressed more than 50%; the floor can withstand several tons of pressure without any damage.

Why an engineered wood system vs. solid hardwood:

It is critical to understand that both are constructed of hardwood. Solid hardwood floor, typically ¾" thick, is composed of one material all throughout the piece and usually has a top surface of 3/16" to the top of the nail. For instance, for a solid Maple hardwood, what you get is solid Maple from top to bottom with a protruding nail 3/16" into the top of the Maple. Engineered, on the other hand, is made up of multiple layers (plies). The first ply is the prime part of the material, a piece of real wood that is the species you are buying like Maple or Oak. The other layers are made up of different species different from the first layer--a lot like a plywood floor. The layers are typically constructed with a method called cross-ply lamination to enhance the strength of the floor. This construction technique results in a wood floor that is more stable than a solid wood floor. Boflex is 70% more dimensionally stable than a solid wood floor. Stable meaning the floor is less susceptible to shrinkage and expansion movement due to fluctuations in humidity or temperature.

For any cementitious material--anything made of cement, whether lightweight cement or a concrete slab--the best choice would be an engineered wood. Boflex, a glued, tongue and groove, floating floor system can be installed over existing subfloors such as vinyl, parquet, plywood, concrete and even ceramic tile. Solid hardwood floors must be nailed or stapled and the subfloor must be able to hold the nail or staple. Additional reasons to select an engineered system such as Boflex are for appearance, durability, and ease of installation.

Boflex Details:

Boflex features a low 1 1/8" profile, which includes a 3/16" prefinished hardwood top layer in Maple, Oak, or Ash. The fully integrated, dual foam channel system is recessed into the backside of the hardwood base construction, which eliminates the chance of the foam being damaged or crushed. With its six coats of factory applied finish, Boflex provides a hard wear layer and safe traction coating for years to come and requires little maintenance.

Warranty:

The Boflex sport floor system has been tested with 45,000 pound loads without the loss of resiliency to the foam channels or breakdown of the double tongue and groove connection point. comes with a 5-year warranty.

Regards,

Gregg Maloley
VP Sales
Cell: (781) 727-8250
Fax: (781) 453-0165
Email: greggm@centaurfloors.com
Web: www.centaurfloors.com

All Product Is Not Created Equal • By Gregg Maloley

2010-07-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

July 14 2010
As many of you realize my industry background includes years of service within the health club and fitness equipment sales industries. In the health club business we sell memberships by highlighting facility “features and benefits”. In the commercial fitness equipment business we sell product by promoting the “features and benefits”. Come to think of it in just about all sales- from cars to insurance to real estate- we sell and buy though “features and benefits”. Oddly enough when it comes to floor covering products; no one ever wants to hear of “features and benefits”. What’s even stranger; proper flooring is more vital to most facilities than any other product. Consider this… when building a new facility you seek flooring that offers you a long life span, aesthetics, and is functional. Once you install your flooring the last thing you want to do is replace it in a few years. The costs in demolition, replacement, and facility down time significantly outweigh that of the purchase of treadmills, elliptical, and strength equipment. In existing facilities to replace flooring is a major undertaking as it may require extensive equipment moving, extended facility downtime and a major inconvenience to your membership.

Whether you purchase your flooring from my company or a competitor. Remember, all product is not created equal! Before you buy you must analyze your exact need and match that need with a floor covering that offers you functionality, reliability, longevity, and affordability. Request the product “features and benefits”. Once you decide on the product negotiate your best price and make sure that the product is being installed by a qualified company that guarantees its workmanship. By the way when it comes to price, appreciate that all sales people are not created equal. Some soft sell and start high hoping to consummate the deal somewhere in the middle. Some, like me give you their best price upfront.

Let’s discuss analyzing your exact need. For example you want a floor covering that will be utilized only for dance and/or non-weight group exercise. Then I strongly suggest that you consider a wood product. Typically a floating floor with foam absorption built in. A product like this should cost in the $7.00-$10.00 per square foot price range. Installation is typically based upon volume of product and will range between a low of $1.50 per square foot to a high of $2.50 per square foot. Then you must factor freight. With the current high cost of fuel. Freight is running anywhere between $.40 per square foot to $.70 per square foot dependent upon product volume, origination, and destination. Total average price point for this type of product would be $9.00 per square foot to $12.00 per square foot. If someone tells you that they can sell you a floating wood floor system with resiliency foam built in delivered and installed for $5.00- $7.00 per square foot I will tell you that the product is of very poor quality and will not last. Remember you “pay for what you get”.

Let’s consider a weight room floor. There are many types of weight room floors. First you must analyze if this is a free weight room floor or a selectorized weight room floor or a combination of both. If it is strictly a free weight room and you want the highest quality product that is functional and aesthetically pleasing then I suggest rubber tile that comes in either all black or percentages of color. This tile typically is 24” x 24” x 1” and offers extreme durability and sound proofing qualities. This type of product can be adhered to your sub floor by either utilizing adhesive or the floor can be more portable by utilizing dowels. Pricing of this product should cost out between $5.95- $7.95 per square foot depending upon percentage of color. Installation will be dependent upon product volume and cost out between $.75- $1.50 per square foot and freight again is dependent upon volume and will cost out between $.40-$.85 per square foot. Remember you will also require adhesive or dowels at a cost of approximately $.40 per square foot. Total average cost ranging from $7.55 - $9.75 per square foot. If this type of product may not be within your budget there is either interlocking rubber or rolled rubber. However, even with rubber tiles or rolled rubber all product is not created equal. Since this type of rubber is recycled; it is imperative that you purchase a rubber that offers elastomer in their manufacturing process. The elastomer will offer the recycled product greater elasticity and resiliency and will not crack over time.

In closing remember price alone, while sacrificing quality will cost you more in the long run. Do your homework- analyze your exact needs, and then base your purchase on “features and benefits”; product references; fair and equitable price point; quality of installation company and their references. Remember if the price sounds too good to be true then it probably is!

Contact me (Gregg Maloley) by phone (781) 727-8250 or email at greggm@centaurfloors.com if I can be of any assistance. For sales representation outside of my territory please contact Centaur Floor Systems directly at (800) 536-9007.

What's New: Greatness - Is it Contagious?

2010-07-14T16:20:00.000-07:00

July 15, 2010

By Carla Lieblein

Here at Centaur Floor Systems LLC, we strive to be on the right side of all potential or repeat customers. We are at your service for all your sports flooring and aftercare maintenance product questions. We like feedback from our valuable customer base, regardless if it's a repeat customer or a brand new customer.

I remember growing up hearing a commercial with the CEO saying, "I liked the product so much I bought the company". The company was Remington, the product was Remington electric razors, and the man was Victor Kiam. The message: I believe in this product, and you will too! I have to admit, I have not bought Remington products or ever plan to buy them. But what I have bought is Victor Kiam's statement about his belief in a product. If anything, it's a philosophy that a belief and confidence in something great can be contagious.

It's something like our Sportweave Flooring that Owner of Centaur Floors Systems LLC, John Donati, believes in so much also. Our customers alike believe in us and we believe in them too. So when we heard our product cleaner for Sportweave was another wonderful product we were thrilled. We are sharing with you the wonderful feedback and belief in our products that one of our customers has stated here.

So how do we clean the Sportweave? It's TASKI TR 103 feedback from Gordon Bennett from Corona Community Towers:

"I love the TR 103! I have used it for about 7 years on the carpets. It's like an air freshener in the entire place. It smells GREAT. I love how it cleans. Your customers will love it. There is practically no foam it's so easy to use. We do use it in an extraction cleaner for the Mgrs. apt. (us) and with a Spin Bonnet for the bldg. I just love it and I think your customers will absolutely love it too. It's used in our senior citizen bldg. (35 units) in Corona, CA. The tenants love the aroma and we have, to the present, not had any complaints or reactions to the chemicals used in this the product... the tenants LOVE it." - 7/12/2010

Centaur Floor Systems Goes Green!

2010-06-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

June 23, 2010

By Carla Lieblein

In the coming weeks, we will launch a new campaign promoting a GREENER Centaur Floor Systems. What makes our rubber greener than our other flooring options? Rubber is a renewable resource. "Rubber trees can be tapped every two days and they tend to live around 25 years" (Mary 2009). Our cutting edge eco-friendly recycled rubber products include: FasTrack, Elite, Elite ST, p'Eco, PuzzleTile, and Speckled 'S'. Our GREEN floors provide an easy to use, easy to install, and easy to maintain sports floor. Our products will enhance LEED point opportunities. At Centaur Floor Systems we recommend recycled whenever possible. We have other products like G-Court, Bolon, and XtremeCourt, which are eco-friendly because low energy processes produce them. Our Wood flooring, Boflex and DinDeck are eco-friendly because the manufacturers demand two trees planted for every one removed.

Here are a few points as to why we call our flooring GREEN:

Our recycled rubber products Elite, Speckled S, Elite ST, PuzzleTile, p'Eco, and FasTrack have a lower environmental impact than other flooring options. Recycled Rubber consumes less energy during production compared to products made from virgin or synthetic sources. Our GREEN products contribute to LEED point accumulation. The collection of used rubber creates job opportunities in developing countries around the world. Elite, Speckled S, Elite st, PuzzleTile, p'Eco, and FasTrack provide a way to make use of resources that are difficult to dispose of in an environmentally friendly manner.

When you are deciding on becoming a GREEN conscious company,
please consider our flooring options.

"Great minds discuss ideas; Average minds discuss events; Small minds discuss people." - Eleanor Roosevelt

Article from: http://www.centaurfloors.com/news/june10/centaur-floors-green.htm

Sources:
GLI editors., Recycled Rubber Flooring. Web source cited on June 17, 2010 from:
http://greenlivingideas.com/topics
/green-building/flooring/recycled-rubber-flooring

Mary, NL (2009) Go Green with Rubber Flooring Throughout the Home. Web source cited on June 17, 2010 from: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1747204
/go_green_with_rubber_flooring_throughout.html?cat=6

Take it to Heart - DIFFERENTIATE !

2010-06-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

June 23, 2010

Feature Article

Since most of my customers realize I sell floor coverings throughout the country to a varying customer base; and possess a strong background in the health club and fitness equipment venues. I am consistently asked, "how do I compete against these low priced health clubs? The economy is still weak and I have competitors charging $99 a year and $10 a month. They are killing me".

We're all in the same boat.... We can't do anything about the economy and if we dwell on the negative we will certainly be out of business in no time. My suggestion---take it to heart- DIFFERENTIATE . If you offer the same "widget" as your low priced competitor you lose. How do you DIFFERENTIATE? Start with your business model. The low priced guy typically does not offer customer service; group x; nursery, programming; amenities, etc. If you do offer such staff, programming and amenities you cannot charge $99 a year or $10 a month. How about your fitness equipment? Why would you possibly offer the same name brand equipment as your low priced competitor? First they are most assuredly purchasing at better price points than you and second offering the same product makes you more comparable to that low priced competitor. When looking to add new equipment consider alternative, quality functional product that will assist you in supplementing your programming and amenities. How about your physical plant-when it comes to floor coverings most low priced competitors feature low color percentage rolled recycled rubber throughout their entire facility. Functional, inexpensive and not appealing to the customer. You can offer options that are customer appealing yet still cost efficient. For example LVT Plank or Tile in walkways and locker rooms. Gives the look of hardwood and tile; yet they are constructed of vinyl and are extremely durable at a fraction of the cost. Sport Weave polypropylene carpet tiles in lieu of recycled rubber within your cardio and selectorized areas. Sport Weave offers the look and feel of carpet with the durability of rubber at a very economical cost.

I can not over emphasize to you that if you DIFFERENTIATE from your low cost competitor by offering responsive and informative customer service; programming; amenities; alternative name brand functional fitness equipment and floor covering upgrades you will endure the price battle and win in the long run.

I feature a sampling of pictures from Fit World in Cranston, RI. Cranston has been hit very hard by the economic downturn and Fit World has its share of low priced competitors. General Manager Cynthia Pena spent a lot of time designing her club to DIFFERENTIATE from her competitors. She had a philosophy that she would offer strong customer service oriented staff, amenities, programs and work only with vendors that supported her with customer service, strong product mix and fair and equitable pricing. Cynthia has a focus and desire to win and she gets it!

Contact me or any Centaur sales reps. to discuss your specific needs.

Regards,

Gregg Maloley
VP Sales
Cell: (781) 727-8250
Fax: (781) 453-0165
Email: greggm@centaurfloors.com
Web: www.centaurfloors.com

What's New: Lower Monthly Maintenance fees?

2010-05-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

May 24, 2010

PlayGrind is the Newest Edition to Centaur's Fitness Flooring Line: a Safe, Recyclable, Alternative to Playground Sand Pits.

By Carla Lieblein

SANTA BARBARA, CA - MAY 24, 2010. The playground is a fun-filled place. However, with the dramatic increase in playground related injuries and the spread of germs over the past two decades, it is also a place that requires a safe ground that can absorb shock, and not carry or spread germs. Sand pits located in children's playgrounds carry germs and diseases transmitted by animals or people in the parks. According to one source most sand pits have disappeared over fears that they pose a health and safety risk - with councils claiming poorly maintained sandpits they sometimes contain broken glass, needles or are used by cat as a 'litter tray'" (Wallop & Oppenheimer 2010). In truth, all theses factors contribute to a higher cost in sand pit maintenance.

"The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) statistics estimate that nearly 200,000 playground-related injuries occur each year requiring emergency room visits. There is a new trend to avoid sand pits in outdoor play ground areas due to random animals using it" (Lamb 2000). "We investigated measures to prevent Toxocara egg contamination of sandpits. Replacement of contaminated sand was not effective because 1-9 new fecal deposits per sandpit were found daily, with eggs reappearing in the sand 6-9 weeks after the replacement" (Uga & Kataoka 1995).

There is hope other authority figures responsible for playgrounds across the country will start to follow the lead councils, which have invested in good quality playgrounds by replacing sand pits with products like PlayGrind.

Sources:

Harry Wallop and Jeni Oppenheimer , 2010 "Sandpits disappearing from playgrounds as councils blame health and safety"

Lamb, Gary , 2000 "Playground Safety" Kenai Peninsula Borough School District. Interviewed by phone on May 14, 2010

Shoji Uga and Nobumasa Kataoka , 1995 "Measures to Control Toxocara Egg Contamination in Sandpits of Public Parks"Department of Medical Zoology, Kobe University School of Medicine, and University School of Allied Medical Sciences , Kobe, Japan. Am. J. Trop. Med. Hyg., 52(1), 1995, pp. 21-24 Copyright © 1995 by The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Leader in Fitness Flooring Solutions

2010-04-23T15:43:00.000-07:00

Feature Article

Centaur Floor Systems

Fitness Industry Leading Flooring Solutions Company

At Centaur we take great pride in offering our customer base a SOLUTION to their needs and problems. Occasionally you will even find us recommending products that we don't represent. Why do we do this? Because we live by the adage that next to Godliness comes great customer service. You see, Centaur is not the largest company in the industry; nor are we solely distinguishable by our product line. What we are is a company with vast industry experience that truly wants to assist you in offering a SOLUTION! We will make mistakes, (though you will never hear me admit that again); we will sell products that may fail; but we will ALWAYS offer you, our customer a SOLUTION that will make you completely satisfied.

Centaur Floor Systems has been selling recreational, fitness, and athletic specialty flooring for over 25 years. Our ownership and management team possess over 100 years of combined industry experience. As a leader in the fitness and recreation industry, we supply flooring products that meet the demanding needs of fitness professionals, amateur and professional athletes, as well as the recreational community.

We seek out quality flooring options with the desire to provide you, our customer, with activity-specific products that are both functional and aesthetic. We will always offer you options of Good- Better-Best in both price point and quality.

Our Customer Promise

To provide you with the best products, best service, best warranty, at a fair and equitable price point.
To work with you throughout the selling process; during the install, and for years afterward.
To always answer our phone and respond to emails; no matter what the question or concern.
To inform the customer of the best application suitable for their needs, fitness goals, and comforts.
Our most important Goal--Customer Satisfaction!

Distinguishable Product Line

Group X area: Boflex wood sport floor; Gymlastic seamless poured floor; G-Court synthetic roll good. Xtreme Court indoor, outdoor, and wood grained top coat portable interlocking tiles.

Cardio. room: SportWeave tiles; Bolon vinyl tile or roll good; Rubberflex S recycled rubber and Plank LVT.

Strength area: Elite tiles; Rubberflex S recycled rubber; Sport Weave and Ecoflor tiles.

Spinning area: Gymlastic seamless floor; G-Court; SportWeave; Plank LVT and Rubberflex S.

Locker rooms/ Pool areas: Bolon vinyl tile or roll good and Sport Weave.

Walkways/Common areas: Sport Weave, Plank LVT and Tile LVT.

On your next project, let us be your one-stop flooring shop. Remember at Centaur, we don't just sell flooring, we provide FLOORING SOLUTIONS!

Please visit our intuitive web page atwww.centaurfloors.com or call us toll free at (800) 536-9007.

Article wrritten by Gregg Maloley