Resource Guide

Rubber surfacing vs. Traditional paving: which is better for your project?

Resident Contributor

Traditionally, most homeowners use concrete pavers in landscaping and exterior design. Concrete paving is typically used for patios, pool decks, and stairs, but over time, it can be susceptible to various types of damage, such as discoloration, swelling, and multiple cracks. Rubber coating is a modern solution to specific problems caused by the aging of traditional materials and the influence of various weather conditions, which also affect the condition of your coating.

This article provides a detailed comparison of rubber solutions and traditional materials to help you determine which best suits your specific and current needs.

Understanding rubber surfacing

The rubber surface is soft and non-slip, it is considered a safe surface and is undoubtedly a safer alternative to traditional outdoor surfaces. Also, the rubber coating is available in various attractive colors that can be matched to your existing decor to get exactly the look you want.

What is rubber surfacing?

Modern rubber coating involves applying a layer of rubber material to the base surface. Waste rubber is usually recycled from used tires that are treated and then mixed with a binder to create a flexible, durable surface. This type of surface is known for its smooth, shock-absorbing properties and is widely used in a variety of applications.

Benefits of rubber surfacing

Let's consider the key advantages of innovative rubber coating: 

  • One of the most important advantages of rubber surfaces is impact absorption. This material provides a soft surface that can significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of a fall, making it an excellent choice for playgrounds and recreation areas;

  • The durable rubber surface is extremely durable and is not afraid of difficult weather conditions, including UV rays, rain, and snow. This material does not crack or become brittle like traditional covering materials, which ensures a long service life. For those interested in sustainable and innovative paving solutions, you can read more about rubber sidewalks and their benefits on our blog;

  • Unlike asphalt and concrete, a rubber track requires minimal maintenance. The rubber material is less sensitive to stains and is easy to clean with a high-pressure washer. Rubber flooring made from recycled tires promotes environmental sustainability by reusing materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Rubber surfacing applications

Modern rubber flooring is widely used in playgrounds for safety reasons, providing a soft surface that children can land on safely. Many sports facilities use rubber treadmills for their cushioning properties, which help reduce fatigue and increase performance. Rubber coverings can be used in parking lots due to their durability and easy maintenance. They are also suitable for walkways, providing a comfortable walking surface with anti-slip properties.

Traditional paving materials

Traditional covering materials include: 

  • Asphalt; 

  • Concrete; 

  • Paving stones.

Types of traditional paving materials

Due to its relatively low cost and easy installation, asphalt is often used on roads, house yards, and parking lots. This is a fairly popular and inexpensive coating solution. However, this solution is not the most durable and is affected by various weather factors, cracks may appear in the asphalt under the influence of high and low air temperatures, snow, and rain. Concrete is a composite material made of cement, water, and additives. It is known for its strength and durability and is used in many areas including roads, sidewalks, backyards, and a variety of commercial uses. Pavers are individual blocks made of materials such as brick, stone, or concrete that are designed to be laid in a pattern. This solution is often used to decorate places near houses, sidewalks, and patios.

Benefits of traditional paving as asphalt or concrete

Economic efficiency is one of the key advantages of traditional coating options. Traditional paving materials such as asphalt and concrete are generally more affordable than rubber solutions, both in terms of initial installation and material costs. Durability and load capacity are also advantages, concrete and asphalt are known for their ability to withstand heavy loads and significant wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and roads. Traditional materials offer a wide range of applications and can be adapted to a variety of design requirements. To achieve specific aesthetic goals, concrete pavers, in particular, can be laid in various patterns and colors.

Common applications

Asphalt and concrete are the primary choices for road and highway construction because of their durability and ability to withstand heavy traffic. Driveways. Both asphalt and concrete are popular choices for residential and commercial applications because they offer a durable surface that can withstand the weight of a vehicle and the effects of a variety of weather conditions. Concrete is commonly used for sidewalks and roads because of its strength and ability to create smooth, level surfaces. Pavers and decorative concrete are often used to create attractive outdoor spaces such as patios and garden paths.

Comparing key factors

Traditionally, most homeowners use concrete pavers for landscape and facade design. However, traditional materials can be susceptible to damage such as discoloration, swelling, and cracking over time. Rubber flooring is a modern solution to specific problems caused by aging and weather conditions, so it is important to carry out a detailed comparison of key factors before making the final choice of flooring materials.

Safety

Children running around the yard or pool can slip and fall. In the yard, on the terrace, or the road, falling on a hard surface can cause injuries. The rubber surface is soft, cushioning, and non-slip, it is considered a safe surface and is undoubtedly a safer alternative to traditional outdoor surfaces.

Cost

Rubber surfaces offer a fresh, new look without demanding a large amount of money from your household budget. Rubber flooring is easy to install and doesn't require the hard work of laying new concrete, so you can save money by purchasing a material that is more environmentally friendly and family-friendly.

Durability and longevity

The rubber surface is incredibly strong. From cold winters to hot summers, this surface can withstand a variety of weather conditions without cracking or eroding. On the other hand, traditional materials are susceptible to damage due to extreme temperatures and humidity, often requiring frequent repairs.

Aesthetic options

Rubber coating adds not only functional but also aesthetic value to your space. Rubber flooring is available in a variety of colors and patterns, providing a high level of customization for any style or setting that traditional materials cannot always provide.

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