Scope & Site Preparation
Raymond Sport was commissioned to outfit the multipurpose gymnasium at Taleem Uptown School in Mirdif with a premium polyurethane (PU) over multi-layer engineered wood sports floor and integrated spectator seating. We began by inspecting and leveling the existing concrete slab, addressing any minor cracks and ensuring a flat tolerance within ±2 mm over 2 m. Moisture testing confirmed moisture vapor emission rates were within acceptable limits for PU flooring.

PU Over Multi-Wood Sports Flooring

• Sub-Floor Installation: A high-strength leveling screed was applied to correct any residual unevenness. We then installed a vapor-barrier membrane to protect the wood from humidity.

• Multi-Layer Engineered Wood Panels: Raymond Sport laid a 25 mm maple-faced engineered wood system featuring cross-laminated birch cores for dimensional stability. The tongue-and-groove panels were floated over a resilient underlay to provide uniform shock absorption and acoustic dampening.

• PU Coating & Finishing: Three coats of moisture-cured, clear polyurethane were applied: two seal coats followed by a high-gloss wear coat. This UV-stable PU finish offers excellent abrasion resistance, consistent ball bounce, and easy maintenance. All lines for basketball, volleyball, and badminton were accurately laser-stenciled before the final wear coat, ensuring crisp, regulation-compliant markings.

Seating & Ancillary Equipment

• Retractable Bleacher System: Along one longitudinal wall, we installed a motorized, three-tier telescopic bleacher bench system with powder-coated steel framing and perforated polypropylene seating planks. The design allows full retraction under one wall to maximize floor space when needed.

• Wall-Mounted Folding Benches: On the opposite side, custom maple-veneered folding benches were affixed with heavy-duty hinges, enabling quick conversion between seating and open-court configurations for assemblies and events.

• Storage & Safety Features: Integrated under-bleacher storage lockers were provided for balls and equipment. Anti-pinch safety guards and slow-retract dampers ensure the bleachers close smoothly without risk to fingers or clothing.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Standards & Testing: The completed floor meets EN 14904 “Indoor Sports Surfaces” Class A4 requirements and FIBA Level 1 criteria for basketball flooring. Impact tests yielded a force reduction of 58 % and ball rebound rates of 95 %, both within optimal ranges for school athletics.

• Final Inspection & Handover: A Raymond Sport site engineer conducted a comprehensive 45-point inspection—verifying PU cure thickness, seam integrity, and seating stability. We provided the school’s facilities team with a maintenance manual covering PU floor cleaning protocols, periodic resealing recommendations, and bleacher lubrication schedules.