In the field of sports venues, hybrid running tracks are highly favored for their excellent performance. However, as time goes by and the frequency of use increases, the problem of surface damage on hybrid running tracks may quietly emerge. This not only affects the aesthetics of the running track but also causes damage to the safety and sports experience of athletes. Don’t worry. Today, we will deeply discuss how to effectively solve this difficult problem of surface damage on hybrid running tracks.
I. Understanding the causes of surface damage on hybrid running tracks
Surface damage on hybrid running tracks does not occur for no reason. There are multiple factors behind it. First, long-term exposure to sunlight and rain can lead to the aging of running track materials. The irradiation of ultraviolet rays can change the molecular structure of the materials on the running track surface, making them fragile and breakable. And the erosion of rainwater, especially when there is long-term ponding, may penetrate into the interior of the running track, causing expansion and deformation of the materials and then leading to surface damage such as cracks and peeling.
Secondly, excessive use is also a key factor. Under the impact of high-frequency running, jumping and other sports, the pressure on the running track surface exceeds its bearing range. Especially in the case of large-scale sports events or school sports meets with dense personnel and high-intensity use, the wear on certain parts of the running track will intensify. For example, in the starting area and on curves, local potholes and wear are prone to occur.
Furthermore, construction quality issues may also pose hidden dangers. If during the construction process, the foundation treatment is improper, such as uneven ground or insufficient compaction of the base layer, or if there are mistakes in the mixing ratio of hybrid materials and the laying process, the running track may have surface unevenness and delamination and other damage situations in the initial stage of use.
II. Common types and hazards of surface damage on hybrid running tracks
The main types of surface damage on hybrid running tracks are as follows:
1. Cracks:
This is the most common form of damage. Cracks may be as thin as hair or as wide as several centimeters. At first, minor cracks may only affect the appearance of the running track, but as time goes by and under the action of environmental factors, the cracks will gradually expand. Water and debris can easily enter, further destroying the running track structure and may even cause athletes to trip and get injured.
2. Peeling:
It is manifested as the peeling off of materials on the running track surface in sheets. This is usually due to weak bonding of materials or serious aging. The peeling area will make the running track surface rough and uneven, affecting the running speed and balance of athletes. At the same time, it also increases the risk of sports injuries.
3. Potholes:
Mostly caused by excessive local pressure or material loss. Potholes will cause uneven force on the feet of athletes during running, easily causing sprains and twists and other serious injuries. For athletes who need precise movements, such as sprinters at the start, the existence of potholes is an enormous safety hazard.
4. Fading:
Although it does not directly affect the use function of the running track like other damage forms, fading will make the running track lose its original beauty and recognition. For some competition venues with specific color requirements, fading may affect the normal progress of the competition. At the same time, it also gives people a sense of being old and in disrepair.
III. Five great tricks to solve surface damage on hybrid running tracks
1. Regular inspection and maintenance are the key
Establish a perfect running track inspection system and regularly arrange professionals to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the running track. The inspection content includes the flatness of the running track surface, the presence of cracks, peeling and potholes, as well as changes in color. For small problems found, such as tiny cracks, timely repair can be carried out to prevent them from expanding further. During the inspection process, detailed records should be made, including the location, type and degree of damage, so as to formulate targeted repair plans.
2. Cleaning work cannot be ignored
Keeping the running track clean is crucial for prolonging its service life. Regularly clean up debris, dust and ponding on the running track surface. Debris may cause friction with the running track during the movement of athletes, accelerating the wear of the running track; excessive dust accumulation will affect the performance of the running track materials; ponding is the «accomplice» of running track aging and damage. As mentioned earlier, it will erode the running track materials. Use appropriate cleaning tools, such as soft brushes and vacuum cleaners, and avoid using sharp or rough tools to damage the running track surface.
3. Techniques for local repair
When small areas of damage are found on the running track surface, such as local peeling or small potholes, local repair methods can be adopted. First, clean up the area around the damaged area and remove loose materials and debris. Then, according to the type of running track material, prepare the corresponding repair material. For hybrid running tracks, the repair material should match the original running track material in composition and performance as much as possible. Fill the repair material evenly into the damaged area and compact and smooth it with special tools to make it flush with the surrounding running track surface. Pay attention to maintenance after repair to ensure that the repair material is fully cured.
4. Comprehensive renovation – the final big move
If the running track surface is seriously damaged, with large areas of cracks, peeling and potholes, and local repair can no longer solve the problem, comprehensive renovation needs to be considered. Comprehensive renovation is a complex project and requires a professional construction team. First, the original running track should be demolished and the base layer should be cleaned up thoroughly. Then, foundation treatment should be carried out again, including adjusting the ground flatness and compacting the base layer. When laying new hybrid running track materials, strict compliance with construction standards should be ensured, ensuring accurate material ratio and standardized laying process to ensure the excellent quality of the renovated running track.
5. Preventive measures should be followed up
In addition to repairing the existing damage, taking preventive measures can effectively reduce the occurrence of surface damage on running tracks. Set up protective facilities around the running track to avoid heavy objects such as vehicles from rolling over the running track. Limit the use scope and frequency of the running track, and strictly control non-sports uses. At the same time, a protective coating can be applied on the running track surface to enhance the anti-aging and anti-wear ability of the running track and prolong its service life.
Although the problem of surface damage on hybrid running tracks is thorny, as long as we understand its causes and types and take scientific and reasonable solutions and preventive measures, we can make the running track shine again and provide athletes with a safe and comfortable sports environment. Let’s act together to maintain the good condition of the running track and help the vigorous development of sports!