Daily Mile Track Installation Process Explained – Step by Step

Installing a Daily Mile Track is one of the quickest ways for schools to transform outdoor activity – but many want to know what the process actually involves. From the first site visit to the final safety checks, here’s a clear, step-by-step look at how As Good As Grass designs and installs durable, all-weather running tracks built to last.

🧭 Jump to:

📍 Step 1: Site Survey & Design

Every installation begins with a detailed site survey. Our team visits your school to measure available space, assess access routes, and check the existing ground condition. We’ll discuss layout preferences – from perimeter loops to custom figure-of-eight designs – and highlight any drainage or levelling requirements.

Once the plan is confirmed, you’ll receive a clear quotation and layout drawing showing the proposed route and dimensions before any work begins.

⚙️ Step 2: Ground Preparation

We start by preparing the site to create a stable, even foundation. This includes:

• Removing existing turf, vegetation or loose material
• Levelling the ground to the correct gradient
• Compacting the sub-base to prevent future movement

This groundwork ensures the track drains properly and remains smooth underfoot – even after years of daily use.

🌧 Step 3: Base & Drainage Layer

Next comes the base construction. Depending on your site, we’ll use a dynamic base (MOT Type 1 and grit sand) or a permeable asphalt base for heavy-use areas. A geotextile membrane is fitted to separate soil layers and improve drainage.

Edging is installed around the perimeter to secure the turf and create a clean finish. For softer or low-lying areas, we can include an engineered drainage system to keep the surface puddle-free year-round.

🌿 Step 4: Artificial Turf Installation

Once the base is ready, pre-manufactured turf lanes are rolled out, aligned, and joined using durable adhesive tape. Every section is cut and fitted on-site to ensure smooth seams and consistent pile direction.

For schools prioritising safety and comfort, a shock pad underlay (25 mm or 45 mm) can be installed beneath the turf. This adds extra cushioning and helps meet Critical Fall Height (CFH) standards for younger pupils.

🧩 Step 5: Markings & Finishing

After the main surface is laid, we add custom features to bring your track to life:

• Start/finish lines and lane markings
• Coloured arrows or lap numbers
• School logos or mascot inlays

We finish with a full clean and quality check – ensuring all joins are secure, turf is trimmed, and the site is tidy before sign-off.

✅ Step 6: Handover & Safety Testing

The final stage includes inspection, testing, and handover. Our installations are tested to BS EN 1177:2018 standards to confirm CFH compliance and drainage performance. You’ll also receive:

• A copy of your product and installation warranty
• Maintenance guidance for brushing and cleaning
• Optional aftercare plan for seasonal servicing

From first visit to finished track, most installations take just 3–5 working days – meaning pupils can get moving again in under a week.

❓ FAQs

Still have questions about the Daily Mile Track installation process? Here are the most common ones we hear from schools:

Can the area be used during installation?

For safety reasons, the work area is fenced off during installation. We aim to keep disruption minimal – most playgrounds or fields can remain open elsewhere on site.

How long before pupils can use the track?

Once installation is complete, the turf can typically be used within 24 hours. We’ll confirm timings on handover depending on adhesive curing and weather.

What if the weather’s bad during installation?

All-weather turf systems can be installed year-round, but heavy rain may delay groundwork or adhesive curing. Our teams schedule around this to stay on track.

Do you remove waste and old turf?

Yes – waste removal is included in every As Good As Grass installation. We dispose of all materials responsibly and leave the site clean and ready for use.