New competition-size wrestling mats can cost several thousands of dollars, which is not a viable investment for many small wrestling programs and home enthusiasts. One option available is to renew an older wrestling mat into a condition that meets the American Society of Testing and Materials' wrestling mat standards. If the mats are not going to be used for competition, they can be slightly below standard. However, you must strive to have them at the highest level of quality you can to ensure safety.
Step 1
Roll out the mats if they have been in storage. Allow the mats to rest overnight to work out any wrinkles or superficial depressions that exist from being stored.
Step 2
Locate any problem areas in the mat. Inspect each mat for cuts and tears that expose the foam core of the mat. Any foam that is exposed can be a breeding ground for fungi, bacteria and viruses that then spread to wrestlers using the mat. Check the edges of the mat for tears in the vinyl covering. Look for depressions in the mat if it has been stored for a long period of time. Excessive compression on a particular area can weaken the padding protection of the mat, which is a danger if a wrestler falls on that area during a match.
Step 3
Sweep the entire wrestling mat clean using a soft-bristled push broom or dust mop. Prepare a cleaning solution in a mop bucket that is one part bleach to every 100 parts water. Dunk a clean mop in the solution and wring it out thoroughly so it does not leave standing water when applied to the mat. Mop the mats clean, being careful not to walk on areas that have already been mopped.
Step 4
Dip a clean paint brush into a can of specially designed mat glue and apply a thin layer into any cuts or torn up pieces of vinyl that need to be reattached. Compress glued edges together to ensure a tight seal. Wipe away any excess glue on the surface of the mat with a clean rag. Allow the glue to dry for the suggested amount of time on the container.
Step 5
Apply an appropriate amount of wrestling mat caulking compound to any gouges or mild depressions that can be smoothed out. Use a putty knife to smooth the caulk flush with the wrestling mat's surface. Allow the caulk to dry for the recommended amount of time on the container.
Step 6
Apply a thin layer of methyl propyl ketone to glued or caulked areas using a clean brush. Only cover enough area with the solvent to encompass the repaired parts of the mat. The solvent allows new paint to form a better bond with the existing vinyl covering of the mat. Allow the solvent to evaporate fully.
Step 7
Dip a clean brush into vinyl wrestling mat paint that closely matches the existing mat color. Apply the paint in a thin and even coat over the areas where the solvent was put on the mat. Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours before physical activity is carried out on the mat.
Tips and Warnings
- Only use chemicals and paints in a well-ventilated area. Clean your wrestling mats regularly and store in a dry area at roughly 70 degrees F to maximize their life.
Things You'll Need
- Dust mop
- Mop and bucket
- Water
- Bleach
- Paint brushes
- Mat glue
- Mat caulking compound
- Methy propyl ketone
- Vinyl wrestling mat paint
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