Regupol Athletic Tracks

FAQ

Why does BSW produce altogether nine different types of athletic track?

Each Regupol® synthetic athletic track is rated for a certain focal use. In addition, pricing structure, installation time, renovation capability and regional customs are also considered in the development of our athletic tracks. The range of synthetic tracks and sports flooring products from BSW covers all types described in DIN 18035, Part 6, in some cases with several versions for each type. Our customer consultants will gladly help you to find out which Regupol® synthetic track is the best for your particular requirements.

Which subbase is better for a synthetic track: asphalt or concrete?

In most cases asphalt is used as a subbase for a Regupol® synthetic athletic track. But concrete is also possible. The water permeable synthetic track Regupol PD IS needs a water permeable asphalt layer. Concrete subbases are possible with all other Regupol® synthetic tracks. This depends on local conditions and often depends on the costs in other parts of the world. In Germany, asphalt is used almost exclusively as a subbase.

How precise does the subbase of a synthetic track has to be?

Exact specifications have been issued in DIN 18035 and by the IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federations) regarding the procedure involved in producing the subbase for a Regupol® synthetic athletic track. BSW can provide technical specifications and guidelines that can be used by the contractor. BSW shall further stay in close touch with the contractor during construction.

What requirements are made of the drainage for a synthetic track?

Various minimum requirements have to be taken into account. Ideally the planning documents should be based on DIN 18035. BSW can provide specifications.

Do we need IAAF certification for our synthetic athletic track, and if so, which?

The need for IAAF certification depends on the planned use of the athletic track. IAAF certification stipulates the quality criteria and properties for an athletic track and indicates how the entire facility has to be designed in order to obtain certification for certain levels of competition. This plays a crucial role in whether the IAAF will acknowledge any records possibly broken on the track. Preparatory talks with BSW will also clarify whether IAAF certification is necessary, and if so, which.

Which facilities have to be provided to obtain IAAF certification?

The IAAF stipulates among others which facilities have to be provided in which dimensions and which arrangements for which competition levels. The entire facility will then be classified in a category stipulated by the IAAF. This is why it is necessary to clarify before planning the sports facility whether certification is going to be necessary, as this is then important for the design of the stadium interior, possibly also including the entire infrastructure of the project.

Does BSW proceed with certification?

Certification is carried out by a surveyor accredited to the IAAF and a test institute certified by the IAAF. This is why the synthetic track and other athletic areas have to be produced according to the specific quality features. This is only possible with all the necessary experience. BSW has been installing IAAF-certified synthetic tracks and athletic areas for decades.

Can the prefabricated Regupol® elastic layers of the synthetic tracks Regupol AG and PD be "pulled around" the bends without curving up?

Yes, the standard radius for tracks is 36.5 m. The Regupol® rolls are being laid around the radius without a problem, producing very slight tension. Furthermore, this tension is also neutralized by the polyurethane adhesive which has been specially developed for this application. The rolls lie firmly and durably secure on the ground. In radii of less than 25 m, the rolls are all being installed in one direction, across the track. This is insignificant however as the PU coating applied on site produces a homogeneous and seamless system.

How does BSW ensure that no gaps develop between the joints of the prefabricated elastic tracks of Regupol AG and PD?

A layer of liquid polyurethane is poured, respectively sprayed on site, following a sealcoat of polyurethane to cover and seal the Regupol® rolls which are installed butt-joined. The polyurethane penetrates all the joints and seals them. As the polyurethane coating cures, it forms a firm, durable connection of the individual Regupol® mats, resulting in a completely seamless synthetic track.

Why do EPDM granules come apart from the sandwich systems (Regupol AG and Regupol Compact)?

The wearing surfaces of these systems are designed to not show spike-use for a long time. This is why the granules broadcast into the polyurethane layer are partly fully, others partly and others only on their very edges embedded in the polyurethane wear coat. Over the entire service life of the synthetic track, individual EPDM granules will gradually come away but still leave a granular surface which is irregular enough to not show spike-wear for a long time. This has nothing to do with the production of the track but is a consequence of the system structure itself and does not constitute any deterioration in quality.

What is the service life of a Regupol® synthetic track under normal use?

A Regupol® synthetic track is very durable. Once it has been installed, it will not need replacing for decades. As with all kinds of flooring, depending on the amount of traffic, at some point the surface will start to show signs of wear. After about 10 – 12 years, it may therefore be necessary to repair at least part of the wearing surface. Most of the flooring structure – the elastic layer and the subbase – remains in place. Partial refurbishment of a Regupol® synthetic track therefore costs far less than construction of a new track. The elastic layers of Regupol® synthetic tracks retain their elastic properties for decades. Regular cleaning makes a great contribution to preserving the functionality and appearance of a Regupol® synthetic athletic track.

When can the first repairs be expected?

Areas subject to intensive use, so called "high stress areas", e.g. the start and take-off-areas may need partial renewal/repairs after about 7 - 9 years, depending on the traffic. This cycle applies to all makes of synthetic tracks, even if some manufacturers may indicate longer periods. The coatings are applied in liquid form so that there will be no quality issues after the repairs have been carried out correctly.

What does it cost to renew the wearing surface?

That depends on the size of the area affected and on the type of wearing surface. It costs far less to recoat a synthetic track than to build a new one. You can expect that the complete refurbishment costs about 50-60% of the price for a new track. Refurbishment of partial areas naturally costs far less.

Does BSW also offer surveying- and line-striping services?

BSW can offer the complete package of surveying services, the PU paint and the line-striping itself, including the relevant certificates, if required.

How long do the lines last under normal use?

About 10 – 12 years. The paint used for the lines on a Regupol® synthetic track consists of weatherproof polyurethane paint.

Are Regupol® synthetic tracks fast or slow athletic tracks?

Regupol synthetic tracks are fast tracks as they are designed for competition standards. If tracks are to be used mainly for training, BSW can modify the elastic layers to make them softer and slower but also kinder to the joints and thus better for training purposes.