What is the purpose of a structured underside with studs and drainage channels on rubber tiles?
The structured underside is moulded into the rubber tile during pressing and forms part of its construction. Depending on the range, it may include drainage channels, drainage grooves, studs, domes or broad bearing pads. The profile may primarily allow water to move, provide resilient cushioning or define how the tile bears on the sub-base. Some ranges have a flat underside and bear on the sub-base across their full area.
When laid, the drainage channels in adjoining rubber tiles form a continuous network. On an impermeable sub-base, this network allows water beneath the surface to flow downslope. On a permeable sub-base, water percolates vertically through the tile and sub-base, leaving the channels with no drainage role.
The void between a tile and the sub-base promotes underside ventilation and helps moisture dry out. Stable mats have a deeper profile, allowing liquids beneath the mat to flow downslope.
Studs and domes provide resilient cushioning under load and help the tile retain its shape. Ring-shaped drainage feet create additional void space, while broad bearing pads distribute loads evenly over the sub-base. Where a tile is bonded, the profile provides space for the PU adhesive and increases the bonded contact area. As the tile is not supported across its full area, the sub-base must be firm and level.