If you are looking for a quality, durable, safe and low-maintenance sports surface, polymeric sports surfacing ticks all the boxes. It is a top choice for any school, sports club or community centre because it is suitable for a whole range of different sports and other physical activities.
What is Polymeric Sports Surfacing?
Polymeric sports surfacing is a synthetic all-weather surface used for sport and leisure activities. It’s made of small rubber granules that are bound together using a polyurethane binder and designed for all sorts of sports surfaces such as running tracks, multi-use games areas (MUGA’s), sports courts and playgrounds.
Benefits of Polymeric Sports Surfacing
- Durability and Longevity
From a cost-benefit perspective, perhaps the greatest benefit of polymeric sports surfacing is its long-term durability solution. It has the power of regeneration, can withstand harsh weather conditions and intensive use during sporting activities and is economically viable.
- Safety and Shock Absorption
The shock absorption of the polymeric surface reduces the risk of injuries associated with sports engagement. The surface is properly designed to slightly cushion impact, which in turn helps in reducing the strain on the athletes’ joints and muscles.
- All-Weather Performance
Polymeric sports surfaces are ideally designed even for harsh weather conditions. These fields are permeable so water can pass through them making the surface dried out after the rain. This makes sure that sports activities aren’t interrupted and the courts are usable throughout the year.
- Versatility
Their use is multi-functional and can be used for athletics, basketball, netball and tennis courts simply by re-painting the athletics track lines and the basketball hoops and lines of the other sports. A polymeric surface area can also become a multi-use games area (MUGA) that can accommodate different sports in one space, making them ideal for schools and community centres.
- Low Maintenance
The most important benefit of a polymeric sports surface is probably the fact that it’s really easy to maintain. A simple weekly cleaning to remove any dirt and debris, and some resurfacing every five to seven years, is usually enough to keep a polymeric sports surface looking brand new. This is ideal for people who run a busy sports venue and do not have enough time to waste on maintaining their playing area.
Installation Process
The installation of polymeric sports surfacing involves a couple of key steps to ensure a high-quality finish and optimal performance.
- Site Preparation
The site should be prepared. Any debris should be cleared, and the area levelled and properly drained so the surface can be strong, stable and last for a long time. - Base Layer
After the base layer has properly drained, builders lay a lower layer of crushed stone or asphalt over it to secure a stable surface before fully covering it with the polymeric surface. Then they compact this lower layer with a vibrating plate to achieve smoothness and consolidation. - Application of Polymeric Surface
The polymeric surface then goes in layers. It is composed of rubber granules (and often a polyurethane binder) mixed and applied over the base layer, which is left to cure (set) and harden. Depending on the desired thickness of the ultimate surface and its performance characteristics, other layers may follow, one after another. - Line Marking
Line markings define the playing areas for different sports once the polymeric surface has been fully cured. These can be painted on using paint particularly designed to stick to rubber.
Maintenance Tips
You want to make sure that your surfaces are well maintained so that they stay in good condition for as long as possible and function to the best of their ability. The following tips show you how to look after your surface.
- Regular Cleaning
You should regularly sweep the surface to remove litter, twigs, falling leaves, etc. This is to prevent the accumulation of organic material that traps moisture and leads to moss and algae. - Remove Stains Promptly
Make sure any spills are cleaned up immediately to avoid staining. It’s best to use mild detergents and not harsh chemicals, which can damage the surface. - Inspect for Damage
Check the surface of the object periodically for cracks or holes and repair them as soon as they appear to prevent further decay. - Professional Maintenance
- You might also want to consider monthly professional maintenance. Professionals are more likely to do preventative maintenance as well as provide repairs then and there when needed.
Why Choose Polymeric Sports Surfacing?
The combination of durability, safety and versatility of polymeric sports surfacing makes it a perfect choice for a variety of sports facilities. It’s great for heavy use, so training and sports matches can be played on a high-quality surface all year round, regardless of the weather. Factors such as low maintenance requirements and long-life span make it a cost-effective choice for schools, sports clubs and community centres.
All in all, polymeric sports surfacing is a smart investment for those who want to add multi-functional use and benefits to their sports facilities. Safe, long-lasting, and suitable for various sports, there is a reason why it’s widely used.
If you want to know more or want to speak to a professional about polymeric sports surfacing, get in touch with us today.