Types, Technical Specifications & Comparison with Alternatives Polyurethane Surface (Tartan) courts are advanced athletic track systems made from multi-layer polyurethane and EPDM/SBR rubber compounds. These surfaces deliver consistent rebound, controlled shock absorption, and exceptional durability — making them ideal for schools, sports clubs, and professional arenas. When installed according to World Athletics standards and with Sport Floor’s professional installation, they provide world-class performance, long-term resilience, and certified safety for athletes.
Polyurethane Surface (Tartan) courts are the preferred choice for sports institutions, schools, and clubs thanks to their exceptional balance of performance, safety, and long-term durability. As a leading manufacturer and exporter to over 47 countries, Sport Floor provides premium Tartan systems and athletic tracks engineered to meet a wide range of educational, training, and professional needs — all built in full compliance with the latest international quality standards.
Installation Layers of a Polyurethane Surface (Tartan) Court — Standard System by Sport Floor
Certified Polyurethane Surface
Polyurethane Surface
A flat and precisely leveled concrete or asphalt layer with a tolerance of ≤ ±3 mm per 2 meters, ensuring stability and evenness for the surface system.
Applied to enhance adhesion between the subbase and the polyurethane (PU) layers, ensuring long-term bonding and resistance to delamination.
Can be a PU mortar coat or a light asphalt mixture used to smooth out the base and achieve a uniform surface texture before applying the rubber system.
A mixture of SBR granules and PU resin providing the essential shock-absorbing thickness that defines comfort and safety for athletes.
A premium EPDM granule coating bound with polyurethane resin to create a non-slip, UV-resistant, and elastically responsive texture, ensuring consistent rebound and tested performance.
Applied with UV-resistant colored coating, precisely fixed and sealed to ensure long-lasting visibility and compliance with official sports standards.
Recyclable & Eco-Friendly
Made entirely from recycled materials to support sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Easy Maintenance
Engineered for simple cleaning and upkeep to maintain its appearance and high performance over time.
Sound Insulation
Effectively absorbs noise, creating a quiet and comfortable environment—ideal for gyms and indoor courts.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Produced using the latest manufacturing technologies for exceptional performance and minimal maintenance.
Safe Application
Provides a secure surface that minimizes slipping and reduces the risk of injuries.
Anti-Slip Surface
Designed with high friction resistance to ensure safe play even in wet or humid conditions.
Durability
Outstanding strength and wear resistance, capable of withstanding intensive use in any environment.
Specialized Solutions
We provide customized flooring systems tailored to your project’s unique needs and specifications.
Water Resistance
Developed to prevent water absorption and moisture buildup, keeping the surface permanently dry.
High Load Capacity
Engineered to bear heavy weights and pressure without deformation or damage.
Easy Installation
Offers exceptional stability with quick assembly, disassembly, and maintenance whenever needed.
International Standards
Manufactured according to the highest global quality and safety standards to guarantee unmatched performance.
Polyurethane Surface Technical Specifications
Certified Polyurethane Surface
Sport Floor Polyurethane Surface (Tartan) Specifications
- • Total Thickness: Typically ranges from 10 mm (for light recreational use) up to 13–15 mm for school tracks, and 25–28 mm for competitive systems following World Athletics standards.
• Shock Absorption (%): Measurable value verified through independent laboratory testing.
• Force Reduction / Rebound: Fully compliant with international sports performance requirements.
• Slip Resistance: Certified through Pendulum / PTV testing for athlete safety.
• UV and Weather Resistance: Enhanced color stability and UV protection to minimize fading under sunlight.
• Drainage Design: Includes a 1–2% slope or side drainage channels for fast water runoff.
• Thermal Stability: Resistant to performance variation across standard operating temperature ranges.
- • Pour-in-Place PU System: A seamless, joint-free surface ideal for children’s playgrounds and adjustable running tracks; delivers professional consistency and superior comfort.
• Prefabricated PU / Rubber Tiles: Quick to install, easy to maintain, and suitable for multi-purpose sports fields requiring efficient surface replacement.
• Rubber Over-Asphalt System (Sand/Granule Infill): A cost-effective option offering moderate performance for training and recreational use.
💡 Recommendation: For official competitions and high-performance facilities, choose Sport Floor’s precision-installed Pour-in-Place system with a premium EPDM top surface, certified to meet World Athletics standards.
| Criterion | Rubber Tiles | Traditional Asphalt | Tartan Courts (PU+EPDM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Performance | Good | Modest | High / Consistent |
| Shock Absorption | Very Good / Excellent | Poor | Excellent |
| Slip Resistance | Good | Affected | Excellent |
| Initial Cost | Medium–High | Low | High |
| Maintenance | Easy to replace | Depends on base | Moderate (cleaning and inspection) |
| Service Life | 7–15 years | Short | 8–20 years (depending on use) |
🏆 Summary: Polyurethane Surface (Tartan) systems deliver the highest level of athletic performance, safety, and durability, making them the preferred choice for professional sports facilities and international-standard tracks.
Steps to Build a Polyurethane Surface (Tartan) Court by Sport Floor
Certified Polyurethane Surface
The process begins with a comprehensive on-site inspection conducted by Sport Floor’s technical team. The site is surveyed to identify any physical constraints or specific engineering requirements before construction begins.
⏱️ Estimated Duration: 1–2 weeks
A concrete or asphalt foundation is installed based on the project’s nature, incorporating a complete drainage system and precision leveling to achieve optimal performance and surface stability.
⏱️ Estimated Duration: 2–6 weeks
A primer coat and initial leveling layer are applied to ensure perfect adhesion between the base and the Polyurethane Surface system, creating a smooth and uniform surface ready for the next stages.
⏱️ Estimated Duration: 3–7 days
4. Installation of Polyurethane Surface System (Base + Top)
All game lines are marked precisely, followed by comprehensive testing of slip resistance, ball rebound, and shock absorption to ensure compliance with international sports standards.
⏱️ Estimated Duration: 2–4 days
A final inspection and on-site performance test are conducted to verify ball bounce, surface friction, and drainage efficiency.
✅ Result: A fully completed Polyurethane Surface court built to world-class specifications, ready for professional and recreational use.
Quality and Safety Tests that Prove Sport Floor’s Excellence
Tartan Athletic Tracks
At Sport Floor, we are committed to applying the highest international standards of quality and safety across all Polyurethane Surface (Tartan) systems we produce.
Our commitment goes beyond local requirements — our products are certified and approved internationally in 47 countries, ensuring safe, reliable, and long-lasting performance for every project
⦁ World Athletics Certification for official competitive running tracks.
⦁ EN/ISO Test Reports, including:
⦁ EN 14808: Shock absorption test.
⦁ EN 1177: Critical fall height test for playground safety.
⦁ Slip Resistance Tests (Pendulum / PTV) to ensure maximum grip and safety during play.
⦁ VOC Emission Reports for enclosed systems to guarantee a healthy, pollutant-free environment.
⦁ Regular Cleaning: Remove dust, leaves, and debris using a blower or soft broom.
⦁ Annual Washing: Clean with low-pressure water and a mild detergent to remove stains.
⦁ Crack Inspection: Repair any base cracks immediately to prevent water infiltration.
⦁ Surface Refill: Some systems may require redistribution of EPDM granules periodically.
⦁ Line Marking Inspection: Repaint track lines as needed to maintain visibility and compliance.
🔧 Following Sport Floor’s annual maintenance plan extends the lifespan of your Polyurethane Surface and guarantees consistent athletic performance.
The total cost of a Tartan court depends on the selected system type, base preparation requirements, and project size.
With Sport Floor, you are guaranteed the best balance between quality and cost, supported by internationally certified systems engineered for long-term performance.
In the medium and long term, a Tartan surface is a smart investment because it:
⦁ Significantly reduces maintenance and repair costs.
⦁ Enhances the appeal and market value of your sports facility.
⦁ Attracts more memberships, sponsors, and events thanks to its professional aesthetics and performance.
🏆 Bottom line: A Tartan court by Sport Floor is more than a surface — it’s an investment in sustainable success.
Superior Quality
We guarantee products that meet the highest international quality standards, ensuring long-lasting performance and customer satisfaction.
Design Flexibility
A wide range of thicknesses, colors, and surface designs to perfectly match your project’s requirements.
Eco-Friendly Materials
All our products are made from recycled materials to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
Outstanding Technical Support
Our expert team is always ready to provide guidance, consultation, and full support to ensure your project’s success.
Location: International School – Argentina
A complete 400-meter Polyurethane Surface (Tartan) track designed for daily school activities and athletic events.
Upgraded with accurate line markings and long-term UV stability for consistent performance year-round.
Location: Sports Complex – United States
Renovation of an old surface into a Pour-in-Place Polyurethane Surface system fully compliant with local competition standards.
Enhanced durability, improved shock absorption, and superior rebound response for professional-level use.
Location: Multi-Purpose Fitness Club – Shanghai
Installation of three outdoor Polyurethane Surface courts officially approved by international sports federations.
Engineered for multi-sport use, combining resilience, anti-slip texture, and weatherproof stability for all-year performance.
FIFA Quality & FIFA Quality Pro Certificates
For synthetic turf systems that meet the latest international performance standards.
International Sports Federations Approvals
Certified for tennis, basketball, and athletics, ensuring acrylic and tartan surfaces comply with global tournament requirements.
Global ISO Certifications
For quality management, environmental responsibility, and occupational safety.
European Standards (EN)
Complying with strict safety and eco-friendly material regulations.
The average lifespan ranges between 3 to 8 years, depending on material quality, system thickness, and maintenance frequency.
Yes — as long as the base is level and free from major cracks. Some projects may require surface preparation or re-leveling before installation.
Absolutely. However, it’s essential to use UV-stabilized materials and coatings to reduce color fading and maintain mechanical performance under intense sunlight.
Yes — when installed according to World Athletics requirements and verified through official compliance tests.
A 1–2% slope or side drainage channels is recommended to ensure fast water runoff and prevent moisture accumulation beneath the surface.
Yes, Sport Floor offers certified warranties covering materials, installation, and after-sales service as per the project contract.
Internationally Certified Polyurethane Surfaces and Sports Fields
Choosing the right Polyurethane Surface (Tartan) system ensures your club, school, or sports facility achieves consistent performance, enhanced safety, and a measurable return on investment.
At Sport Floor, we manufacture internationally certified Polyurethane Surface systems, backed by performance reports, slip resistance tests, and EN / World Athletics certifications, and we proudly export to over 47 countries worldwide.
📦 To receive a field sample, a detailed quotation including shipping and timeline,
simply share your project location and area size —
Our team will provide you with a professional technical consultation and an initial execution plan tailored to your site.
A materials and systems engineer specializing in tartan sports fields with 18+ years of experience, who has supervised the design and implementation of tartan sports field projects in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, and is an expert in performance and safety specifications.
M. Zhang Ming Manager of the Tartan Flooring Department at Sport Floor