For school athletic directors and officials, having the best products, materials, and supplies for your athletes is a top priority. When choosing the material for your running track there are an endless number of options to choose from but not all materials are made the same.
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If you want a top-quality running track that will provide your athletes with the best, then you need to consider using a rubber running track. In terms of maintenance, safety, and performance, rubber running tracks offer a number of advantages over other types of running surfaces.
Let’s take a look at why most modern running tracks are made from polyurethane or tartan rubber, and how these materials can benefit your school or college.
Use our running track cost calculator to get a customized cost estimate for your track project.
Wondering about the difference between polyurethane, rubber, and tartan running tracks?
Short answer: nothing.
In the running track industry, all three terms are used interchangeably to describe the same thing – a synthetic running surface made from a polymer material. Depending on your area or when you joined the industry you might use one of these terms more than the others.
For example, the name Tartan actually derives from the brand 3M. The company was one of the first to develop and manufacture a polyurethane running surface back in the s. The name has stuck ever since and is now used as a generic term for all synthetic running tracks
So, when you’re looking for a new running track for your school or college, you can rest assured that all three materials are of the highest quality and will provide your athletes with the best possible experience.
Now that you know a little bit about why rubber tracks are superior, let’s take a look at how to choose the right system for your school or college.
There are a few things you need to consider when selecting a rubber running track:
First, you need to understand who will be using your rubber track. The age and experience level of your athletes will play a big role in determining the type of running track system you need.
For example, if you’re looking for a track for elementary school students, you’ll need a different system than if you’re looking for a track for collegiate athletes. The thickness of the material and the level of cushioning will be different for each group.
Next, you need to know what types of events you will be hosting on your track. If you’re only hosting local meets, you won’t need to worry about having a track that meets international standards.
However, if you’re planning on hosting bigger events, like state championships or even national competitions, you’ll need to make sure your track meets all the requirements.
Lastly, you need to consider your budget. Rubber running tracks are a significant investment, so you need to make sure you have the funds available to cover the cost. Working with an expert in the field can help you maximize your funds.
But be sure not to skimp on your material choice. Lower-priced options could mean a shorter lifespan, which means you’ll be prematurely replacing your track.
Consider tapping an external resource early in the process to help you understand the cost of a rubber running track and what options are available to you.
Let’s take a look at what goes into the construction of a new polyurethane running track solution.
To properly install your running track, you need to level and grade your space. This process will require machinery, expertise, and labor.
Once your space is prepared, a base layer of concrete is poured. The thickness of this layer will vary depending on the climate in your area.
The track itself is then installed atop the base layer providing a sturdy foundation that will last for years.
Permeable tracks are porous in nature and allow water and moisture to flow through them. These types of tracks are often installed in areas with high rainfall or excessive humidity.
There are several options for permeable tracks:
In the latter option, your base layer can erode quickly because water isn’t allowed to escape. This decision is best left to a trusted professional that is knowledgeable and familiar with your location and climate.
Impermeable tracks are non-porous and use a slight grade and gravity to help water move off and away from the track. These types of tracks are most often installed in areas with low rainfall or minimal humidity.
If you’re ready to install a rubber running track, you have a few different options. Here are the three most popular types of tracks:
These systems usually have a two-layer base with a layer of EPDM polyurethane for the surface. A paved-in-place system is spike resistant and durable but doesn’t offer the most cushion for runners.
These systems are best for intermediate-level, high-school, and collegiate-level competitions. The construction of a sandwich track system is similar to a paved-in-place, however, the basemat is crowned with layers of EPDM to create a stronger bond.
Sandwich track systems are durable and offer athletes an incredible running experience. However, this option can be expensive, so make sure you have the budget to accommodate this top-of-the-line system.
In a full-pour, the base layer is comprised of polyurethane and recycled rubber. The top layer often comes with EPDM granules to offer more support for runners.
Are you interested in learning more about Prefabricated Running Track Manufacturer? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
The surface of full-pour systems is usually impermeable, meaning you’ll need a grading system to wick water away. In areas with heavy rains, this can be a drawback.
The last option is to have a pre-made rubber track installed in your facility. This will ensure you get a quality product that meets your specifications, but it can also be the most expensive option.
A pre-fabricated solution is best for high levels of competition where the track will get a lot of use. If you’re on a tight budget, this might not be the best option for you.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a running track material is performance. After all, the whole point of having a running track is to allow athletes to train and compete on a surface that will help them run their best.
Rubber running tracks are very low maintenance. The materials are extremely durable, making them a perfect solution for outdoor venues and facilities. When pricing your new running track it’s vital to consider all costs. Maintaining your track can be costly, especially if you have to replace the surface every few years.
With a rubber track, you won’t have to worry about this. The material is designed to last for many years with very little upkeep required. This means that once your track is installed, you can focus on training your athletes and leave the maintenance to us
If you’ve ever gone for a run or jog on a concrete surface, then you know how hard it can be on your joints. The constant impact of your feet hitting the ground can lead to serious injuries over time.
One of the biggest advantages of using a rubber running track is the added safety it provides. The material is much softer than other solutions, meaning that there is far less impact on your joints. This can help to reduce the risk of injuries, making it a perfect choice for schools and colleges.
In addition, rubber tracks also drain exceptionally well, meaning that they provide a safe surface for athletes to train on, even after heavy rainfall.
Installing a rubber running track is a big decision — but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. Work with a reputable company that specializes in running track installation, and make sure you get a cost estimate at an early stage in the process. This will help you better understand the scope of the project and set realistic expectations for the final result.
When you’re ready to take the next step, take a look at our simple cost calculator to get a better idea of your final price. We’ll put you in touch with local experts that know how to get the job done right.
Installing a new running track at your facility is an exciting moment — you are adding an important amenity that your athletes can use on a daily basis. However, it's important to invest in a well-designed running track made of high-quality materials. Not only will this ensure that your running track surface looks great and lasts for a long period of time, but it will also protect the athletes who utilize it regularly.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of designing an incredible running track that will be loved and enjoyed for years to come.
Key Takeaways
Before you can begin designing and choosing the right surface materials, you will need to choose the best location for the new running track.
A few considerations that you need to make when selecting the final site are:
The size that you prefer for your running track will also influence the site that you choose. For instance, a four-lane, 400-meter track has a footprint of about 26,000 square feet, while a larger track with eight lanes may take up twice as much space. Knowing the dimensions of your track and the amount of space you will need will help you select a site that will accommodate your project.
The layout of your running track will be heavily influenced by your intentions for the track. These are some of the standard dimensions of running tracks:
If you choose to veer from the standard dimensions, you will find that the width of your lanes and the curvature of your running track significantly impact its overall footprint. Be sure to work closely with the track designer in order to be sure that the size and scope of the track fits within the confines of the site you have selected.
The running track surface materials that you select will not only impact the appearance of the track, but also its ability to accommodate athletes of all levels.
Some of the most commonly used running track surface materials are:
You will want to invest in a surface material that will optimize the performance of your track while extending its lifespan. Purchasing high-quality, rubber running track surface materials is one of the best design choices you can make for your track.
Incorporating an effective drainage and irrigation system into your running track not only ensures that it is able to be used whenever necessary, but also helps to protect it from weather-related damage in the future.
There are several drainage options for running tracks, but most designers find that the slot drain system is best. Slot drains are slim, trench-style drains that will effectively remove water from the running surface without presenting an additional trip hazard to the runners who are using the track. Slot drains can easily be installed along with your surfacing materials, allowing you to create a seamless and cohesive design for your running track.
With a drainage system in place, you will prevent water from pooling on the track, ultimately allowing people to use the track whenever they want and need.
Beyond the running track itself, your design should incorporate additional amenities that will improve the usefulness of the facility. Some common amenities that are installed along with the track include:
The types of amenities and features that you choose will depend on the purpose for your running track and the facility that you are working with. By investing in the right amenities for your track, you will ensure that both athletes and spectators are able to enjoy the new track to the fullest.
While running tracks made with rubber surface materials are known for their durability, you will still need to properly maintain your new track in order to maximize its lifespan. Removing debris on a regular basis and rinsing the track several times per year will help to prevent short-term wear and tear on your running track. In addition, regular deep cleanings will protect your track, improve its overall appearance and extend its lifespan.
The materials that you use for your running track surface matter. At Sparton Enterprises, we offer high-quality, durable rubber surfacing material that will allow you to design a vibrant, safer and durable running track.
Contact us today to receive your free estimate and to learn more about how our running track surface materials will improve your project.
For more information, please visit Eco Friendly Running Tracks.