Porous vs. Non-Porous Athletic Tracks

Written by Bill Narozanick / Published in News, Running Tracks

High school running track

Schools want their student-athletes to excel. An integral way they can help them do that is by providing a quality running track. Choosing the right type of running track surface can be the difference between a long-lasting and high-performing field and a frequently deteriorating one. As part of the decision process, American Athletic Track and Turf highlights the ways porous and non-porous running tracks contrast to help you make the best decision for your school.

What Are Porous Tracks?

Porous running tracks are constructed of rubber granules held together by a water-based latex, polyresin, or polyurethane binder or glue. Since the binder is open-graded, air, water, and even contaminants flow in and through the surface. Typically considered entry-level surfaces, porous tracks cost less but are expected not to last as long, meaning you will likely have to resurface them more often.

What Are Non-Porous Tracks?

Like porous tracks, non-porous running tracks are made of rubber granules attached by glue or a binder. However, these surfaces are sealed so moisture and air cannot get inside. Since they are designed to be advanced-level tracks with higher longevity, these surfaces cost more initially. However, American Athletic offers these tracks through our cooperative purchasing program so schools can attain them more affordably and efficiently.

What Are The Benefits of Using a Non-Porous Track over a Porous Track?

Based on our experience, non-porous tracks tend to be the more secure choice. The open-graded nature of porous tracks presents a variety of problems that are avoided with sealed surfaces. Consider how the following factors impact porous surfaces more than they do non-porous tracks:

Pavement Protection

Porous tracks do not protect the asphalt sub-surface, allowing moisture to move through them instead. The pavement declines over time as a result, particularly during freeze/thaw cycles, leaving an unstable foundation for the track. On the other hand, non-porous tracks feature an umbrella-like effect that allows them to protect the pavement surface beneath from weathering and erosion, which provides a stronger track surface.

Temperature

Colder temperatures harden track surfaces while warmer temperatures soften them, creating distinct impressions on the feet. Porous systems are inclined to fluctuate more due to temperature, while some non-porous systems don’t change their texture within a 120-degree variation.

Encapsulation

Due to how they are installed, water-based porous surfaces are unable to encapsulate all rubber granules with glue or binder, leading to minor clumping of rubber and a compromised system. Non-porous polyurethane systems are pre-mixed and blended so that all granules are entirely encapsulated during installation.

Installation and Labor

Water-based porous track surfaces feature a minimum of 10 to 11 steps and require the same number of days to complete. They also cannot be installed with impending precipitation or higher humidity. Non-porous tracks are substantially less sensitive and easier to install correctly as a result.

Maintenance

Waiting is not an option when it comes to maintaining porous tracks. If the athletic department faces budget cuts and cannot afford to resurface a porous track when it is due, irreparable damage can happen. However, non-porous surface maintenance is less urgent due to its sealed nature. While adhering to maintenance cycles is still necessary, non-porous tracks will not lose their durability or performance if resurfacing is reasonably extended.

Learn More About Running Track Surfaces from American Athletic Track and Turf

Getting the right track surface is vital for student-athletes to thrive at your school. If you have any questions or concerns about porous and non-porous tracks, you can trust American Athletic to provide answers. We are a multi-generational family business that has been serving New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, southern Massachusetts, eastern Pennsylvania, and beyond since 1983. Contact us today to find out more about our athletic track design options.

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