Why Resurface Your Running Track During Your Artificial Turf Field Construction?

Why, when, and how to resurface your running track

Unlike most field sports, running is a sport of minimalism. That said, there are several critical components to successful track teams, and arguably the most essential one is a well-maintained track surface. 

The track is ground zero for running athletes’ practices and competitions. You should maintain yours with the same care and attention as the artificial turf sports fields in your athletic facilities.

Why you should resurface your track

1. Athlete and runner safety

Cracks, improper drainage, and poorly bonded surface areas threaten your runners’ safety and may become a liability if neglected. The track’s rubber surface tends to become less flexible over time which can result in a harder track, which is not optimal for safety or performance. Running track performance can be tested similar to an artificial turf field by testing the shock absorption, vertical deformation, slip resistance and more. Correct track maintenance results in higher performance results and fewer injuries to your athletes. The proper track surface maintenance reduces the likelihood of trips and falls and supports your athletes’ joints.

2. Performance 

In addition to the safety concerns, inadequately maintained tracks hinder athletic performance. Your track surface should help your athletes’ speed, rhythm, and recovery.

3. Extension of the overall life of your track 

With the proper maintenance, cleaning, and resurfacing, your track should have a lifespan of twenty to thirty years. Resurface your track about halfway through its expected life cycle to prevent significant issues that could lead to premature total replacement.

When should you resurface your track? When your field is under construction

Consider resurfacing your track at the same time your synthetic turf athletic fields undergo construction and replacement. It’s best to sync these projects for a few crucial reasons.

First, coordinating upgrades to different parts of your sports facility means less disruption. When you simultaneously resurface your running track and replace your turf fields, you reduce the risk of collateral damage to your entire sports complex. It is better not to replace and spray a new track next to a brand new field that could have some residual damage. 

The average time between track resurfacing and field replacement is 8-15 years, so chances are, if your artificial turf field is nearing replacement, your track surface is nearing resurfacing, as well. It is better to keep your track updated with resurfacing to avoid major repairs and replacements later. Depending on your track surface, the average lifespan of a running track is 20-30 years when properly maintained, cleaned, and resurfaced. Around this time, you will need to consider a full track replacement. 

Time your projects right to maximize facility usage. Suppose your facility is going to be closed for construction to one of its features. You may as well make all of the necessary improvements and conduct all of your construction at this time to prevent a second closure. To resurface the track, the whole facility will need to be closed, so you won’t be able to use your field during this time, anyways.

Artificial turf field and track surface maintenance: how to do it right

Make the process simple and convenient by working with a general contractor specializing in running track resurfacing and artificial turf field replacement. Motz joined forces with running track cleaning and repair specialists and offers premium services and reliable management of all aspects of track and field installation and maintenance projects. When you have one trusted partner to manage the entire renovation of your athletic facilities, you’ll remove the headache of juggling multiple contractors on-site with scheduling, logistics, and deliveries.

Resurfacing versus repairing your running track

Resurfacing a track is more time-consuming and less economical than repairing it. Our experts can do a track evaluation to determine the best course of action. Typically, we recommend resurfacing over repair work as long as the damage and wear to the asphalt surface below do not require extensive (and expensive) work. Tracks can typically be resurfaced at least once in their lifetime.

Ready, set, go!

Learn more about our track cleaning services to extend the life of your new running track or request a free track cleaning quote.

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