Your installer just quoted three different “rubber” track systems with a $100,000 price gap. What are you really buying? Modern running tracks aren’t just recycled tires. They’re engineered layers of rubber, binder, and coating, each affecting performance and durability. Understanding the difference between materials helps you choose wisely, plan maintenance effectively, and avoid overpaying for features your facility doesn’t need.

Key Takeaway

A rubber running track is comprised of rubber granules and polyurethane binders layered over a stable asphalt base. When selected correctly for your climate and usage, a quality track delivers years of reliable performance with proper maintenance.

Why Understanding Track Materials Matters

The term “rubber track” can be misleading. A $110,000 structural spray system and a $250,000 full resurfacing both qualify, but the materials beneath make all the difference. Modern tracks use engineered blends of rubber and binders to balance performance, comfort, and durability. Some systems suit community use; others are built for collegiate competition.

“You have to figure out what do they need, what do they want, and what is the pain associated with whatever the problem is.” — Lance Laurent, President, Pro Track & Tennis

Knowing what your track is made of helps you choose the right system for your climate, plan maintenance effectively, and invest where it truly counts.

Why Listen to Us

Pro Track & Tennis has resurfaced and rebuilt more than 1,000 tracks across 25 states for schools, universities, and municipalities. We don’t just sell surface types. We help facility managers choose systems that make sense for their climate, budget, and goals.

“We use our own crews. Once you start subbing stuff out, you lose control.” — Lance Laurent, Pro Track & Tennis

A durable track starts with proper preparation, in-house installation, and the right material mix for your region. When those align, the surface performs better and lasts longer.

What Are Tracks Made Of? The Real Composition

A running track isn’t one material. It’s a system. Understanding what’s in each layer helps you evaluate quotes, plan maintenance, and avoid paying for features you don’t need.

Modern running tracks consist of several layers that work together to provide safety, traction, and durability. A typical system includes:

• Asphalt base for structural stability
• Rubber granules mixed with binder for cushion and texture
• Polyurethane or latex binder that holds the system together
• Color coating and seal coats for UV protection
• Line markings and exchange zones for regulation compliance

As Lance explains it: “You mix granulated rubber with polyurethane binder, mix it in a big mixer, take it out to a paving machine, you set the depth at half inch and it paves it. Similar to the way asphalt’s laid.”

Each layer affects how the surface feels underfoot, how it drains, and how it performs over time.

The Main Track Surface Systems

Based on Pro Track & Tennis’s experience across 25 states, here are the primary options:

1. Structural Spray Systems

What it is: Think of it as repainting your house, but with rubber added to the coating. As Lance describes: “It’s like repainting your house. You’re repainting it, but you’re adding rubber to the paint coating.”

Best for: Budget-conscious schools that need 5-7 more years from their existing track

Investment: Approximately $110,000 for a standard 400-meter track (includes restriping all lines and running events)

2. Full Resurfacing (Scrape and Replace)

What it is: Complete removal of the old rubber surface and installation of new polyurethane system

Best for: Tracks where the rubber mat is worn out, spider cracking, or losing granules

Investment: $180,000 to $250,000 depending on square yardage (average 8-lane track is 5,000 square yards)

3. Premium Systems

What it is: High-end rubber systems for Division I universities and professional venues

Best for: Programs that need maximum performance and durability

Investment: $300,000 to $700,000+ for Division I university systems

Understanding the Real Costs

“Sometimes you have to understand what the pain is of the customer. Sometimes when you walk up to the school, the pain is they want the regional track meet back. They lost it because school X down the road put in a new track.” — Lance Laurent, Pro Track & Tennis

Here’s what affects your investment:

Lance shared a recent example: “We just finished a college track up in Sioux City, Iowa. It was an eight lane track with two big D zones, high jump areas, and it was 7,600 square yards. That was a $370,000 track. That same system on a little six lane track probably would have been $180,000 to $200,000.”

How Climate Affects Your Choice

Your region’s weather directly impacts which system makes sense:

Northern States (Freeze-Thaw Cycles)

• Challenge: Temperature swings cause cracking and base movement
• Solution: Flexible systems that can handle movement
• Critical: Must install when temperatures are above 60°F

Southern States (High UV Exposure)

• Challenge: Intense sun breaks down materials faster
• Solution: UV-stable coatings and quality binders
• Advantage: Longer installation season

Humid Regions

• Challenge: Moisture accelerates degradation
• Solution: Proper drainage is absolutely critical
• Priority: Fix water issues before any resurfacing

“We can’t install coatings below 60°F or on damp surfaces. For northern states, that means work windows are much shorter.” — Lance Laurent, Pro Track & Tennis

Critical Maintenance for Track Longevity

Regular upkeep extends your track’s life and protects your investment:

Essential Maintenance Tasks

• Inspect annually for cracks or drainage issues
• Keep drains clear and vegetation trimmed back
• Sweep regularly to remove debris
• Repaint lane markings every 2-3 years
• Address small problems before they become big ones

Budget Planning

• Annual maintenance: $1,000-$2,000
• Minor crack repair: $20,000-$40,000
• Structural spray: ~$110,000
• Full resurfacing: $180,000-$250,000

Choosing the Right System for Your Facility

The right choice depends on three key factors:

1. Your current track condition – Can it be maintained or does it need replacement?
2. Your budget – What can you afford now vs. what you’ll spend long-term?
3. Your goals – Do you need to win back the regional meet or just maintain safety?

Key Questions to Ask Contractors

✅ Do you use in-house crews or subcontractors?

✅ What’s included in your warranty?

✅ Can you provide references from similar facilities?

✅ How do you handle crack repair?

✅ What’s your experience in our climate?

Red Flags to Avoid

Watch out for:

• Vague quotes without specific system details
• Contractors who subcontract the actual work
• No discussion of drainage or base condition
• Promises that seem too good to be true
• No local references or ASBA membership

The Bottom Line

Not all rubber running tracks are created equal. The difference between a $110,000 structural spray and a $250,000 full resurfacing isn’t just price. It’s about matching your facility’s needs, budget, and goals with the right solution.

Smart facility managers don’t guess. They get an expert assessment, understand their options, and make informed decisions based on their specific situation.

Get Your Track Assessment

Not sure whether your facility needs a structural spray, full resurfacing, or complete rebuild? We’ll assess your current surface, review your budget and goals, and recommend the right solution with honest cost projections.

As Lance puts it: “Our niche is repairing existing courts and tracks, and we’re really good at it.”

Pro Track & Tennis: 25+ states. 1,000+ projects. ASBA member with in-house crews.

Schedule your free assessment or call 402-761-1788.