Artificial Turf Maintenance and Performance for Sports Fields
Neglected synthetic turf may become unsafe for players.
Artificial turf is durable, low-maintenance, neat, and uniform. However, it still needs maintenance and care to host various activities.
Here's how to keep a synthetic surface in optimum condition:
What maintenance does for the turf
Neglected synthetic turf may become unsafe for players. Worn-out artificial grass blades could be a slipping hazard and cause an injury or fall. Also, moving around on a neglected artificial grass field is much harder.
Without upkeep, debris and bacteria can build up on the field, negatively impacting drainage and hygiene. Consequently, not maintaining the turf properly puts the health of the athletes at risk. Worse still, it also makes the field's lifespan shorter, which could lead to costly repairs or replacements.
How to maintain the field
Some routine tasks under synthetic grass maintenance include brushing, removing debris, and redistributing infill. Brushing keeps the fibers upright, stops them from matting, and keeps the playing surface consistent. For the best results, do it once or twice a week, depending on how often the field is in use.
Removing debris prevents the drain system from getting blocked so that rain and other moisture can leave the field instead of accumulating. Remove leaves, trash, dust, and other materials to keep the field clean and clog-free.
Infill absorbs shock and keeps the field stable. Check and redistribute the infill if it scatters so the players have enough cushioning to play safely.
What to do when the turf starts wearing out
Goalmouths and central areas are particularly vulnerable to wear because they get the most use. For that reason, they need special attention. But other parts are still worth checking for wear occasionally. If there are minor tears and seams, they're fairly easy to repair but should be promptly addressed. Otherwise, they may grow and cause further damage.
No matter how good the maintenance, the turf will eventually wear out. Depending on the usage, the field turf may need replacing every eight to ten years.
Maintenance and performance
To keep the field in top performance:
Conduct the GMAX test to measure the turf's shock absorption.
Use irrigation or cooling systems to reduce heat on the synthetic grass to make it more comfortable and less dangerous for players.
Keep an eye on the infill because it affects traction and stability and reduces the risk of injuries.
Safe sports with artificial grass
Artificial turf is low maintenance compared to natural grass but needs regular upkeep. Get in touch with an expert turf installer to get more tips on maintenance and schedule professional checkups.
TurfWash is an artificial turf cleaning company in Phoenix Metro offering safe, odorless cleaning for artificial turf and hardscape surfaces. Our family business has over 23 years of experience in the artificial turf industry. We take pride in our in-depth knowledge of artificial turf and our passion for providing excellent service. Give us a call at 602-560-8582.
