How to Install Marley Vinyl Dance Floors: A Step-by-Step Guide by Connor® Dance
In the world of performance flooring, every step matters—literally. Whether it’s a rehearsal, a performance, or an intense class, dancers rely on precision, resilience, and comfort underfoot. At Connor® Dance, we bring that performance to life with our Marley Vinyl surface—meticulously engineered and expertly installed to support every move.
Our latest installation at Joel Hall Studio showcases exactly how a professional-grade Marley Vinyl system is brought to life—from subfloor to seam sealing. In this guide, we walk through the four key installation phases, integrating industry-leading standards for heat welding and floor prep to ensure performance, safety, and style.
1. Building the Foundation: Pro Forma III Subfloor Installation
Every great floor starts with a rock-solid base. The Pro Forma III subfloor system is precision-cut before shipping to minimize job site waste and speed up installation. Installers space panels with 2-inch blocks, staggering the layout to eliminate joint alignment and reduce transfer points.
A layer of plywood is added on top, cut and secured every 6 inches with nominal spacing at the ends. This layered build offers ideal shock absorption and dimensional stability; two must-haves in any dance space.
2. Sanded Sheathing & Adhesive Application
Using a 1/16-inch notched trowel, installers apply adhesive in even rows, leaving ½" to 1" clearance near the edges for natural adhesive spread. Sheathing is installed at a 45° angle across the subfloor for optimal stability and tension distribution.
Once laid, each panel is mechanically fastened every 6 inches to lock the sheathing in place and ensure a secure, movement-resistant surface beneath the Connor® Dance Marley Vinyl.
3. Urethane Scratch Coat Application: Seal, Smooth & Set
Before installing your Connor® Dance Marley Vinyl, a urethane scratch coat is mixed and applied to the prepared surface. Following ASTM F1516 guidelines, this step ensures a smooth, uniform surface for vinyl adhesion.
After pouring the liquid across the studio’s far end, it’s troweled evenly toward the entrance. Once cured (24 hours), the surface is buffed and cleared of all debris, setting the stage for a flawless vinyl application.
4. Installing & Heat Welding Your Connor Dance Marley Vinyl
Here’s where precision meets performance. Connor® Dance Marley Vinyl rolls are cut to fit and left to acclimate for a full 24 hours; critical to avoid shrinkage or warping. Afterward, sections are rolled back and adhesive is applied edge to edge.
End seams are aligned tightly, no gaps allowed. Once seams are aligned, seam tape is applied, and a weighted roller eliminates bubbles and air pockets. For high-traffic studios or pro stages, heat welding provides the ultimate seam strength.
Best Practices for Heat Welding:
- Groove Depth: Cut 2/3 through vinyl thickness; for sport floors, stop before the foam layer.
- Tools: Use Leister or Turbo Groover and Turbo Precision Nozzle #22-3 for accuracy.
- Temperature Control: Always test welders on scrap material before beginning; avoid extension cords that could cause voltage drops.
- Weld Trimming: Use Mozart tools for clean passes. Trimming occurs in two stages—first with a spacer, then without—to ensure perfect fusion.
Done correctly, a visible “bead” should appear along the weld line—a sign of a strong, fused seam that will endure daily use without compromise.
Ready to Elevate Your Studio? Let Connor® Dance Take the Lead.
From Broadway stages to local dance schools, Connor® Dance Marley Vinyl and Connor® Stage surfaces are trusted by professionals for their durability, safety, and seamless performance. Whether you're designing a new space or upgrading your current studio, we're here to help.
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