Gym Wall Padding Installation Methods

A gym wall pad can help to make a gym space safer for athletes, students, and other gym users. This wall padding is made to be highly durable, but a gym pad is only effective if it’s installed correctly. With many installation methods to choose from, knowing what to expect from each installation type may help you to choose the wall pads that you want to buy for your gym or facility.

Gym Wall Padding Installation Methods

Different wall padding options feature different installation methods. Some wall padding for gym use is available with multiple installation types, so you can choose the installation method that works best for your gym. Whether you’ll be handling the installation yourself or will be having your maintenance team handle the task, make sure that you’re familiar with the type of installation that you’ll be choosing.

Direct Screw Installation with Nailing Margin

Some mats, like our Safety Wall Pad, can be installed with screws or nails. These mats feature a one-inch lip nailing margin at the top and bottom. You can use this margin to attach the mats to the wall with appropriate hardware as mentioned previously. This method of installation is the most common and budget-friendly option.

This results in a secure installation that’s easy to perform. This type of installation is recommended when attaching wall pads to concrete walls. Nailing margins are used for indoor wall pads, but not outdoor wall pads.

Z Clip Installation

Z-Clips can be attached to the back of the gym wall pads by screwing them into the plywood backing of each panel. Then, you can screw the other side of the clip into the wall. You can attach gym wall pads directly to a concrete block wall or to wooden studs. These wall pads are often used on drywall installations.

This design offers several advantages. It conceals the mounting hardware behind the wall pads. Z-clip wall pads typically include the screws to attach the Z-clips into the wall pads. The screws to mount the Z-clip to the wall are not included as the screws needed with depend upon the wall. If you are installing into solid wood, a 1-1/4 inch wood screw will work. For drywall and concrete blocks, we recommend the Hillman Wall Dog 1-inch.

The Z-clip installation method is available for both indoor and outdoor wall pad options.

Z Clip with Nailing Margin Installation

A more unique installation method is a Z-Clip and nailing margin combination. Usually, the nailing margin with a 1 inch lip is on the bottom of the pad and the Z-clip is used to secure the top of the pad. Sometimes, this is reversed depending on where the wall pads will be installed. This type of installation method is not as common but can be used when installing on drywall. The Z-clip channels make it easier to get a fastening point on the studs.

Bolt and Plate Installation

Outdoor padding products, like our Outdoor Field Wall Padding for Chain Link Fences, feature a bolt and plate (or bolt and fender washer) installation. Each panel can be installed on a chain-link fence with a bolt and plate attachment bracket. This installation type makes it easy to remove the padding as needed.

Installation with Grommets

Outdoor wall pads can also be installed with grommets. These pads are soft-backed without a wood-back support. A row of grommets are at the top and bottom of the mats. To connect these mats to a chain link fence, use nylon zip ties featuring a 50 pound break. Mats can also be attached to masonry walls using concrete anchors which are not included. Pre-drill a hole through the masonry through each grommet hole then drill in the anchors.

Hook and Loop Installation

Installing mats like the Safety Pole Pads or Safety Pilaster Wraps is even easier. These pads feature two two-inch hook and loop fasteners to install the padding around the pole. To install them, all you have to do is wrap the pad around the beam so the fastener pieces fit together. The whole process takes just minutes.

Soft-backed wall pads can also be custom-made to include a hook and loop installation method when required.

Choosing the Right Gym Mats

When installing gym mats, it’s always important to adhere to ASTM standards. These standards outline details about the ideal height where the mat should be installed above the finished floor for maximum protection. Be sure to thoroughly review these standards when planning your gym, ordering your gym mats, and planning out your installation.

When buying gym wall mats, it’s important to consider the types of activities performed in the space and the type of protection that you want to add.


All of the wall gym mats that we carry at Greatmats are designed with quality and durability in mind. You’ll find thick, durable vinyl covers and quality foams that balance strength with shock absorption. Features like multiple installation method options and double-stitched seams exemplify the quality that you can expect from our products.

If you’ll be using the mats outside, then a waterproof or weather-resistant mat is essential. Look for a vinyl that is UV resistant to ensure the mat is durable enough to withstand outdoor use.

Don’t forget that most of our gym wall mats are also available with custom graphics. You can have your school’s logo, sports team’s logo, or other design printed on the vinyl for a fabulous branding addition.

If you have additional questions about how to attach mats to wall areas or how to hang wall mats, please call one of our friendly customer service representatives