Creating a safe, high-performance space for sport is a top priority for schools and local councils. Whether you’re planning a new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), upgrading an old surface, or seeking a long-term investment in your local community, polymeric sports surfacing offers a versatile and durable solution.
At Nova Sport, we supply and install polymeric surfacing across the UK, helping schools, parish councils, and sports venues transform their spaces for a wide range of activities. In this guide, we’ll explore what polymeric surfacing is, the difference between Type 3 and Type 4, and why it’s one of the most popular choices for outdoor sports courts.
What Is Polymeric Sports Surfacing?
Polymeric surfacing is a rubber-based sports surface made from polyurethane and rubber granules, usually laid over a macadam base. It’s designed for high impact absorption, slip resistance, and multi-sport use, ideal for playgrounds, tennis courts, netball courts, and athletics tracks.
Thanks to its smooth, seamless finish and excellent performance in wet weather, it’s particularly well-suited to UK schools, leisure centres, and council-funded sports projects.
Type 3 vs Type 4 Polymeric Surfacing: What’s the Difference?
Choosing the right polymeric surface is key to ensuring your sports area performs well for your users. At Nova Sport, we offer two high-quality options — Type 3 and Type 4 polymeric surfaces, each suited to different usage needs and sports requirements.
Here’s a breakdown of the differences:
Key Takeaways for Schools and Councils:
Type 3 polymeric surfaces are ideal for high-slip-resistance sports such as netball and tennis. This surface is laid as a single porous layer and coloured with a polyurethane coating, offering excellent drainage and a quick installation timeline. It’s a robust and reliable choice for school playgrounds or courts with mixed usage.
Type 4 polymeric surfaces are best suited to multi-sport environments, including football, basketball, and hockey. This two-layer system uses a base of recycled SBR rubber and a spray-applied EPDM wearing course, creating a textured, durable, and porous finish. The result is a professional-grade sports surface that meets Sport England and SAPCA requirements.
The installation of Type 4 does include a curing period for both the base and the spray coat, which typically occurs overnight but may vary depending on weather. During this time, site security is essential to prevent access and maintain surface integrity.
Both surfaces are installed on a permeable foundation and offer long-term durability, with low maintenance needs and excellent year-round performance in British weather conditions.
Ready to Upgrade your Sports Area?
Whether you’re planning a new MUGA, resurfacing a school court, or designing a community play space, Nova Sport can help. Our expert team will guide you through every step from choosing between Type 3 and Type 4 polymeric surfaces to final installation.
Get in touch today for a free consultation and site visit to discuss your sports surfacing project, or give our team a call on 01332 292202.