Column: Synthetic Turf

Artificial Turf: Maintenance is Essential

By Arthur Eddy, ASLA, LEED AP

Artificial turf, also known as synthetic turf, has been used widely in arenas and stadium for sports. It was first installed at Moses Brown High School in Providence, Rhode Island in 1964 and became famous in 1966 with the first major sport arena at the Houston Astrodome. In most recent times, the lack of land and the increase in athletic sports such as lacrosse has strained the maintenance, safety and performance of engineered grass fields. High schools and colleges have invested in the installation of synthetic turf fields. Other reasons for its widespread use in athletic fields include the hours of use that the surface can withstand along with performance and safety.

A misconception of these synthetic turf fields is that they are maintenance free. Testing has shown that shifts in infill levels can have a dramatic effect on performance of a field. Additionally, to ensure the durability and usage of artificial turf in athletic fields are at optimum, regular maintenance is required. Failure to adequately maintain artificial turf surfaces results in deterioration and serious safety concerns which opens a facility up to potential liability claims.

Here are some easy maintenance tips to ensure durable and long-lasting usage for synthetic turf fields:

Easy maintenance tips for synthetic turf athletic fields:

1. Routine/Regular Care and Cleaning: On a regular basis, removing debris and particulates is important. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the turf surface, making it lose its integrity and potentially causing serious drainage problems. Cleaning the synthetic turf surface at least once a week is advisable especially if the field is regularly used for sports. To clean or clear the turf of fallen leaves and dirt, a garden vacuum, lawn sweeper or leaf blower can be used. Care should be taken to not create to displace infill.

2. Removal of Contaminants: Common contaminants in a synthetic turf field include mold/moss/algae which can be removed by treating the field (you can contact a specialist for help), sunflower seeds, peanut shells can be removed by hand/backpack blower and other metals objects can simply be picked by hand or using a magnet attached to a grooming tool. Contaminants like chewing gum can be removed using ice or aerosol to freeze the gum which can be chipped off from the synthetic fibers.

3. Regular Brushing: One way to keep your artificial turf field looking natural and appealing is to brush it regularly. Natural grass stands upright and that’s how artificial turfs are designed to be. Over a long period of time, even the toughest synthetic turfs will bend. Brushing your artificial turf will maintain its natural look. While brushing the turf, avoid using brushes with metal bristles as they can damage the grass. A five inches long brush with synthetic bristles is recommended for the job.

4. Care for the synthetic turf in special circumstances: In cases of snow/ ice, a snowplow can be used to remove the snow from the field; the snowplow should be carefully used to avoid surface damage. Static electricity can be reduced with the help of liquid fabric softeners. Although very rare, your field can get affected by lightning, avoid the used of metal spikes to reduces its chances.

5. Use of Herbicides: It is possible for weeds to grow on the artificial surface. There should be a proactive and timely herbicide treatment to avoid weeds from sprouting out and causing damage to the artificial turf fields.

6. Safety Testing: Just like an engineered grass field, testing your system will give you a good understanding of how your system is working and the maintenance that is required. Having a survey of your field including checking infill depths, HIC, GMax, rotational resistance and vertical deformation will give you a good indication of where more intensive maintenance is required. It will also allow you to protect your facility from any potential liability.

Conclusion

Proper and adequate maintenance of artificial turf is necessary for durability, performance, and safety. If you apply the given maintenance tips, your artificial athletic turf fields will look amazing, last long and be safe for sporting events.

Arthur Eddy is CEO of RePlay Maintenance in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. Connect with Art at Aeddy@replaymaintenance.com or (877) 641-1819.