{"id":15331,"date":"2021-04-06T19:13:00","date_gmt":"2021-04-06T19:13:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trackandturf.com\/?p=15331"},"modified":"2023-09-22T15:35:13","modified_gmt":"2023-09-22T19:35:13","slug":"porous-vs-nonporous-tracks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trackandturf.com\/blog\/porous-vs-nonporous-tracks\/","title":{"rendered":"Porous vs. Non-Porous Athletic Tracks"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Schools want their student-athletes to excel. An integral way they can help them do that is by providing a quality running track<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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<\/a> so schools can attain them more affordably and efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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:<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n 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\u2019t change their texture within a 120-degree variation.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Are Porous Tracks?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Are Non-Porous Tracks?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Are The Benefits of Using a Non-Porous Track over a Porous Track?<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Pavement Protection<\/em><\/h3>\n
Temperature<\/em><\/h3>\n
Encapsulation<\/em><\/h3>\n
Installation and Labor<\/em><\/h3>\n
Maintenance<\/em><\/h3>\n
Learn More About Running Track Surfaces from American Athletic Track and Turf<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n