Ventilation, Moisture, Temperature
Your hardwood maple floor system is designed to withstand normal variations in humidity and temperature. A fully functional HVAC system providing proper ventilation (air movement) will prevent changes in the floor system's shape and appearance. The HVAC system must be adjusted to maintain room temperatures between 55-75° F. If during high humidity outdoor periods the space gains humidity in excess of 55% immediate air movement and exhaust of moisture laden air must be accomplished. During warm humid seasons regular inspections of the space and floor should be conducted. Please consult the facility's HVAC provider so that these recommendations and requirements are fully understood.
Better air circulation can be achieved if interior doors remain open and the air circulation system is operating. If humidity levels in the facility drop below 35% Prostar Surfaces recommends that humidity be introduced into the space to avoid excessive shrinkage.
Excessive expansion or shrinkage in your floor caused by environmental conditions which exceed normal ranges are not the responsibility of Prostar Surfaces and may void the warranty of the floor.
Tape on a Maple Floor
Putting any type of tape on a maple floor can cause major problems to the floor's finished surface. Most tape that you would use has an adhesive resin that can stain or etch the finish.
Tape is often used by educators who are coaching or teaching. But the potential damage from tape on the floor goes beyond the finish. When there is tape on the floor it can cause a slipping or tripping hazard for your community and players.
Scissor Lifts
Many maple gym floors are designed to absorb the impact of athletes jumping on them. That material isn't designed to handle excessive weight.
Even when heavy equipment like a scissor lift meets the weight specifications (see the linked document below), lifts should not be left overnight on a maple floor.
Cupping and Crowning
Cupping and crowning happen when a lot of moisture gets into the joints and penetrates the wood.
Cupping is when the moisture causes the boards to crush each other. Crowning is what happens when the edges of a piece of wood curl up and become higher than the center.
It's important to know that some slight cupping or crowning may happen simply through the expansion and contraction of wood by its very nature.