By Emilee Wilson, Schmidt Associates
Post-tension concrete is becoming a popular option within K-12 athletic facilities. For years, it has been used out west, but only recently made its way to Indiana. In the state, it has been used on tennis courts to prevent severe cracking and to ensure a longer lifecycle.
Recently, Indianapolis-based architectural firm Schmidt Associates worked with Wes-Del schools in Gaston, IN to create the first post-tension concrete running track in the state. Traditionally, running tracks are asphalt. This type of reinforced concrete is very common on the West Coast, but until recently, it had not been offered in Indiana.
There are many benefits to having a post-tension concrete track as opposed to an asphalt running track. For example, this type of track saves money on future repairs. A post-tension concrete track is likely to last 25 years without noticeable damage and requiring less maintenance. With asphalt tracks, you must repair the cracks before resurfacing, but with post-tension concrete, you can save a step. Post-tension concrete tracks require only minor repairs every decade, thereby saving time and money. When you consider how budget-conscious many K-12 school systems are, this is an effective strategy because over time, it is a cost savings with less maintenance. In fact, a post-tension concrete track could potentially endure over two generations of students running and walking on it before it would need to be replaced. Post-tension concrete tracks also hold up against severe weather conditions. The concrete slab is kept in a constant state of compression, so it can remain stable during extreme weather fluctuations.
For athletes, the post-tension concrete tracks provide physical benefits. With a polyurethane force reduction layer, the PCC cushioning system offers premier performance with superior shock-absorbing qualities. Helping to reduce body fatigue, the systems aid in quick recovery and lessen pressure on joints without sacrificing performance. Other advantages to post-tension concrete tracks are the absence of pooling water and cracks. No runner wants to be charging through puddles or risking injury that can often occur with irregularities found in asphalt surfaces, so post-tension concrete tracks are not only a value in time and money but also in safety.
The engineers at Schmidt Associates are excited to be the first to offer this groundbreaking option for K-12 schools. It’s a great way to future proof athletic infrastructure for Indiana’s runners and game-changing athletes.
