How hot can rubber tiles become in the sun?
No single surface temperature can be stated for rubber flooring in the sun. The main factors are colour, the duration and intensity of sunlight, air temperature, wind and shade. Published field measurements of black rubber surfaces in full summer sun have recorded temperatures of 60 to 80 °C. These figures do not apply to every area or set of weather conditions. In shade, the surface cools and gradually approaches the air temperature.
Colour has a particularly strong effect on heat build-up. Dark surfaces absorb a large proportion of solar radiation, while lighter and speckled colours reflect more of it and usually warm up less under the same exposure. For patio tiles in areas used barefoot, rubber tiles around pool edges and safety tiles in play areas, colour choice and shading should therefore be considered early in the planning process.
At the start of exposure to sunlight, it is mainly the layer near the surface that warms up. With continued exposure, the heat gradually penetrates further into the tile. How hot the surface feels also depends on the duration of contact. Very hot patio tiles and safety tiles should be allowed to cool before anyone walks on them barefoot, particularly where children or dogs play. A brief touch with the hand indicates whether the surface has cooled sufficiently.
Shade limits further heat absorption. As soon as a shade sail, awning or tree casts shade over the area, the surface begins to cool. How quickly this happens depends on the wind, air temperature and how warm the tiles had become beforehand. After prolonged exposure to sunlight, the tiles may continue to release heat after sunset. Free colour samples can be laid side by side at the intended location and compared under the same conditions.