The Ellsworth Jr./Sr.

High School gym underwent a renovation for a new floor over the summer. It was a necessary project according to Athletic Director Ron Davis Jr.

“We were no longer able to sand the finish off of the floor due to the nailheads appearing at the surface level,” he said. “The floor had become very slick due to the coats that could not be removed.”

The floor had also taken on a yellow appearance from the lack of sanding, as well as black streaks from termite treatment in past years.

The original floor was installed in 1956. Most wood floors are replaced after 40 years, but due to the district’s investment in maintenance, the floor was able to withstand 67 years of regular use.

“The gym floor is used every school hour for PE classes during the school year and throughout the summer for volleyball and basketball activities,” Davis said.

It took five weeks to replace the floor from start to finish. The process included tearing out the old floor, laying the new wood, painting lines and art, a clear coat finish and a metal transition trim.

The new floorboards are 2 ¼ inches wide, compared to the old 1 ½ inch boards. The original floor was also third grade maple, a darker product with more natural variation, whereas the new floor is first grade maple.

First grade maple has the strictest standards of appearance as well as the most quality in removing defects and streaking.

The floor was originally going to be replaced in the summer of 2022, but was delayed due to the availability of the maple. With the renovation completed, a high-quality gym floor was built that will lend to years of games, practices, classes and more.