The hard walking surface underneath the belt of a treadmill is called the deck and like the belt, it wears out over time. There are a few different styles of treadmill deck but mostly they are wood covered with black low-friction top surface.

As the treadmill is used, the top surface of the deck rubs against the walking belt with the pressure of the users weight. In time, that friction wears out the belt and can even rub the surface of the deck off. Once the wood is exposed the friction between the belt and deck gets much much higher and is really in need of replacement.

If it is not replaced the electronic components of the treadmill are at risk of burning up from the added voltage running through the circuit boards.

Another way we check to see if the treadmill may need replacement running surface (Belt and Deck) is to check the Amperage that the unit draws while in use. If the Amp draw is low and steady, the surfaces are good. If we measure high Amperage and it bounces up and down, its probably time for new parts.

Little bit of good news- most treadmill decks come with two useable surfaces so you can flip the deck over and reinstall it with the new walking belt. We also will install a new drive belt which connects the motor to the front roller at this time; its not much added expense since its a very small belt and avoids possibility of an additional repair down the line.

Here is an example of a treadmill deck with wood exposed. With a well used treadmill, this service will probably have to be performed around the middle of its overall life expectancy.