WE ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS!
Rubber surfacing offers
numerous benefits for various applications in Texas, especially given the state’s unique climate and environmental conditions. Below are answers to frequently asked questions about rubber surfacing in Texas.
Rubber surfaces—particularly those made from high-quality Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber or Recycled Tire Rubber (SBR)—exhibit excellent resistance to heat, ozone, and weathering. They can withstand temperatures up to 302°F and maintain elasticity down to -40°F, making them suitable for Texas's hot summers and occasional cold spells.
Permeable rubber surfaces are designed to allow water to infiltrate through the surface, reducing runoff and promoting groundwater recharge. This makes them effective in managing stormwater during heavy rains, a common occurrence in Texas. By facilitating infiltration, they help mitigate flooding risks and control pollutants found in surface runoff.
Yes, rubber surfaces are highly suitable for high-traffic areas such as playgrounds, walkways, and hotel entrances. Poured-in-place rubber surfacing provides a seamless, durable, and slip-resistant surface that can withstand significant foot traffic. Its resilience and low maintenance requirements make it ideal for these applications.
Permeable rubber surfaces are ideal for projects aiming to manage stormwater effectively and reduce runoff, and to guarantee a non-slip pathway. They are suitable for patio and deck surfaces, stairs, steps, ramps, driveways, walkways, and playgrounds—as well as churches, senior living facilities, schools and public storefront entrances. Their ability to allow water infiltration while reducing the rate of water dispersal, makes them a sustainable choice for various applications.
Compared to traditional concrete or asphalt, permeable rubber surfaces offer superior stormwater management by allowing water to pass through, reducing runoff, and promoting groundwater recharge. They also provide better slip resistance and can be more comfortable underfoot due to their flexibility.
As well, Rubber Surfaces International utilizes existing concrete surfaces during refurbishment projects which eliminates the carbon footprint of removing the original surfaces and sending them to the dump, as well as eliminating about half the cost. Additionally, when using a rubber surface over top of asphalt, it eliminates the use of the next most common method of refurbishment, coal tar sealant—which is toxic and now banned in some states.
Fun fact: Studies have shown that rubber surfaces have about 4% of the carbon footprint that asphalt has.
Permeable rubber surfaces can help meet Texas stormwater management regulations by reducing runoff volumes, reducing the rate of water dispersal, and improving water quality through infiltration. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) emphasizes the importance of managing stormwater to prevent pollution and flooding, and permeable surfaces align with these goals.
High-quality rubber surfaces, especially those made with SBR or UV-resistant materials like EPDM, are engineered to withstand intense UV exposure and high temperatures typical of Texas summers. They maintain their structural integrity and any color degradation over a long period of time can easily be brought back with a simple recoat of binder.
Permeable rubber surfaces contribute to sustainability through the diversion of landfill waste through the use of recycled materials, like tires, which mitigates issues of fires in landfills and helps eliminate prime mosquito breeding grounds in landfills. Used tires in landfills collect rainwater, which serves to nurture mosquito growth and increase mosquito-borne diseases.
Did you know? The average driveway uses up about 50 tires worth of rubber.
These rubber surfaces also help manage stormwater runoff, reduce the burden on drainage systems, and promote groundwater recharge. They can also be made from recycled materials, further enhancing their environmental benefits.
The lifespan of a rubber surface depends on factors like material quality, installation, and maintenance. High-quality poured-in-place rubber surfaces can last twenty years and beyond before needing resurfacing, even under Texas's diverse weather conditions. Regular maintenance can extend their longevity.
Fun fact: There are many examples of rubber surfacing lasting over 20 years!
Yes, rubber surfaces are safe and beneficial for outdoor sports courts and recreation areas. They provide shock absorption, reducing injury risk, and offer slip resistance, enhancing safety during play. Their durability and low maintenance make them suitable for various recreational applications. A great example of this are the many running tracks seen all across the nation. These are made primarily of rubber surfaces!
In summary, rubber surfacing is a versatile and effective solution for various applications in Texas, offering benefits in durability, safety, and environmental sustainability.
