Resurfacing vs. Rebuilding: What’s Right for Your Running Track?
As temperatures drop and athletic seasons wind down, winter becomes a critical time for track and field facilities. While colder months may limit use, they also present the greatest risk for hidden damage. Proactive winter preparation protects your investment, extends surface life, and ensures your facility is ready when spring training begins. Below are essential maintenance considerations every athletic department should address before winter arrives.
1. Start with a Thorough Surface Inspection
Before freezing temperatures set in, conduct a detailed inspection of your track and surrounding areas. Look for:
Surface cracks or separations
Low spots or uneven areas
Standing water after rainfall
Deterioration along seams, curbs, or transitions
Small issues left unaddressed can worsen significantly through freeze-thaw cycles, leading to costly repairs in the spring.
Pro tip: Document problem areas with photos to track changes over time and support future budgeting discussions.
2. Prioritize Drainage Performance
Water is the single biggest threat to track and field infrastructure during winter. If moisture cannot drain properly, it expands when frozen and compromises both the surface and the substructure beneath.
Ensure that:
Drainage inlets and outlets are clear of debris
Adjacent turf or landscaped areas are not directing water onto the track
Perimeter grading still slopes away from the surface
If your facility experiences recurring puddling or ice buildup, winter is the time to plan corrective drainage improvements.
3. Address Cracks and Minor Repairs Before Freezing
Cracks may seem minor during warmer months, but winter conditions can rapidly accelerate deterioration. Water seeps in, freezes, expands, and causes cracks to widen or spread.
Before winter:
Seal visible cracks and joints
Repair isolated surface failures
Stabilize edge damage where tracks meet turf or pavement
Preventative repairs now are far more cost-effective than structural fixes later.
4. Prepare for Snow and Ice Management
Not all snow removal methods are safe for track surfaces. Improper equipment or materials can cause irreversible damage.
Best practices include:
Avoiding metal blades or aggressive scraping
Using rubber-edged equipment if removal is necessary
Limiting or eliminating the use of chemical de-icers unless manufacturer-approved
When possible, allow snow to melt naturally rather than risking surface damage.
5. Protect the Substructure Beneath the Surface
While the visible surface gets the most attention, the substructure below is what ultimately determines performance and longevity. Winter moisture infiltration can weaken this foundation if it’s already compromised.
Warning signs of substructure issues include:
Repeated surface cracking in the same locations
Soft or unstable areas underfoot
Poor drainage that persists year after year
Winter is an ideal time to evaluate whether underlying repairs or upgrades should be scheduled for the upcoming construction season.
6. Use Winter as a Planning Window
Even if construction isn’t feasible during colder months, winter is the best time to plan ahead. This allows athletic departments to:
Assess long-term facility needs
Develop budgets and secure approvals
Schedule work early for spring or summer availability
Early planning often leads to better timelines, fewer disruptions, and more competitive pricing.
Final Thoughts
Proper winter preparation is about more than protecting a surface, it’s about safeguarding athlete safety, maximizing facility lifespan, and reducing unexpected costs. A proactive approach ensures your track and field facility emerges from winter ready for another successful season.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your track or want guidance on winter maintenance or long-term planning, contact us for a consultation - we’re here to help.
