When it comes to choosing to floor for an outdoor space, there are multiple options available. Concrete and sport court flooring are two of the most popular for many due to their durability and affordability.
However, it can be challenging to know which one is the right choice when considering factors such as safety, cost, installation process, and maintenance requirements.
This article will provide a comparison of concrete vs. sport court flooring so that you can make an informed decision.
Differences Between Concrete and Sport Court Flooring
The biggest difference between concrete and sport court flooring is the type of material used. Concrete consists of a mixture of cement, water, sand, and gravel poured into molds or frames and then allowed to dry and harden.
This creates a strong and durable surface that is weather-resistant and low maintenance. Sport court flooring, on the other hand, is a type of synthetic material made from recycled rubber and plastic particles, which are molded together to form interlocking tiles or panels.
This creates an even more durable surface that offers superior cushioning for athletes but can also be used in various non-sport applications.
Differences in the Installation Process
When it comes to the installation process, concrete requires pouring and leveling before it can be used. It must also be sealed to protect against moisture damage, cracking, or chipping over time.
In contrast, sport court flooring can usually be installed quickly by snapping together the pieces since they’re already interlocked.
Furthermore, sport court flooring does not need to be sealed since it is made from waterproof materials.
Difference in Cost
In terms of cost, concrete tends to be more expensive initially due to the cost of labor and materials.
Sport court flooring, however, can also be pricey depending on what type you choose and where you purchase it from.
Sport court flooring usually requires less maintenance over time which can help to offset some of the upfront costs associated with installation.
Differences in Maintenance Requirements
When it comes to maintenance requirements, both concrete and sport court flooring have different needs. Concrete must be regularly sealed every few years to prevent cracking or chipping while also protecting against moisture damage.
It’s also important to watch for any cracks or holes that may develop with time. Sport court flooring, on the other hand, is relatively low maintenance and can usually be cleaned with a broom and hose as needed.
Additionally, if any piece becomes damaged, they are typically easy to replace without the need to redo the entire floor.
Benefits of Sports Court Flooring
Sports court flooring offers a multitude of advantages owing to its specialized design and patented technology. Its multi-layered surface is non-slip and color-coated, enabling true ball bounce, consistent play speed, and safety in case of a fall.
Moreover, its adjustable shock absorption shields limbs and joints from stresses caused by jumping and running, providing an optimal playing experience.
These are customizable and can be maintained easily due to their interlocking nature. The features make this type of flooring ideal for all levels of athletes.
So What’s Best?
Playing on hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt courts can cause long-term damage to your joints and increase the risk of injury.
These injuries include patellar tendonitis, jumper’s knee, ankle sprains, turf toes, and knee sprains which could prevent you from participating in your sport.
Constant playing on a hard surface can lead to the overuse and wear of your joints, muscles, and tendons, resulting in chronic pain and inflammation.
Therefore, playing on hard surfaces should be done cautiously to avoid these medical issues.
For these reasons, it’s best to opt for sport court flooring when creating an outdoor playing area. Sports court flooring is unarguably a great choice for athletes and those looking to create an outdoor playing area. It provides superior cushioning, is customizable, and requires less maintenance than concrete.
So, sport court flooring is the perfect choice for athletes of all levels as it provides an optimal play experience without risking your health.
