Getting the Perfect Fit: Measuring and Cutting Rubber Flooring Rolls
Rubber flooring rolls are one of the most versatile and cost-effective ways to cover large floor areas. However, cutting rubber correctly is essential to avoid waste, achieve a professional finish, and ensure safe, even coverage. This guide covers everything you need to know about measuring and cutting rubber flooring rolls in the UK.
Tools You'll Need
Before you start, gather the following tools: a sharp Stanley knife or heavy-duty utility knife (replace the blade frequently for clean cuts), a long metal straight edge or aluminium ruler (at least 1m long), a measuring tape, chalk line or chalk pencil, safety gloves (rubber resists cuts but a slip with a knife can injure hands), and a flat cutting surface such as a sheet of plywood.
Step 1 – Measure Your Room Accurately
Measure the length and width of the room at multiple points — rooms are often not perfectly square, particularly in older UK properties. Use the largest measurement in each direction to ensure full coverage. If the room has alcoves, bay windows, or irregular features, break it into rectangular sections and measure each separately.
Step 2 – Calculate the Roll Length Required
Rubber matting rolls are sold by the linear metre at a fixed width (commonly 1m, 1.2m, 1.5m, or 2m). Select a roll width that matches or exceeds your room width to minimise joins. For example, a room 1.8m wide is best covered with a 2m wide roll — the 200mm overhang is trimmed after laying. Calculate the length required and add 50–100mm extra for final trimming.
Step 3 – Mark Your Cut Line
Lay the rubber flat on your cutting surface. Use a chalk line or chalk pencil and a straight edge to mark the cut line clearly across the full width. For long straight cuts, snap a chalk line across the roll. Double-check measurements before cutting — rubber matting cannot be uncut.
Step 4 – Cut the Rubber
Place your metal straight edge firmly along the marked cut line. Starting at one end, press the Stanley knife firmly against the straight edge and score along the full length in a single, smooth stroke. For rubber up to 6mm thick, score 2–3 times and the rubber will snap cleanly. For thicker rubber (8mm+), continue scoring until cut fully through. Never try to saw back and forth — this creates a ragged edge. A fresh, sharp blade makes this process significantly easier.
Step 5 – Trim Around Obstacles
For doorframes, pipes, or irregular wall profiles, use a cardboard template. Cut the template to fit precisely, then trace around it onto the rubber before cutting with a knife or rubber scissors. For internal corners, cut a small V-notch to allow the rubber to sit flat without bunching.
Step 6 – Final Fitting and Joining
Once cut to size, lay the rubber in position and check the fit. Trim any final overhangs with a sharp knife and straight edge pressed firmly against the wall or skirting. Where two pieces of rubber meet, ensure the join is tight with no gap. Secure joins with double-sided heavy-duty tape underneath or a rubber seam adhesive.
Ordering Rubber Matting Rolls Cut to Size
At Rubber Flooring UK, we can supply rubber matting rolls cut to your specified length. This saves time and reduces waste. Browse our rubber matting rolls cut to length and complete 10m rubber sheeting rolls with free UK delivery.