Fall sports are ending, and winter is coming. What steps can you take to guarantee that your field is ready for the spring game? The following winter artificial turf maintenance tips will leave you feeling prepared for the changing seasons.
Start with a Clean Slate
Remove all debris from your field before the snow starts to accumulate. Brush off all unwanted fallen leaves, sticks, litter, etc.
Reset Infill Levels
With games ending, this is a great opportunity to measure and refill your turf’s infill keeping in mind the most trafficked areas on the field. These areas may vary, some of which include pitching, catching, batting and lead-off areas for baseball and softball; corner kick and goal areas for soccer; the center circle and between the hashes for football, etc. Maintaining proper infill levels can help prolong the natural wear and tear of synthetic turf fibers.
Double Check the Manufacturer’s Warranty
We all know winter can come early in the Midwest but before you start clearing the snow, it is important to brush up on your manufacturer’s warranty. Be sure to have a good understanding of the policies and procedures prior to making any maintenance decisions.
Snow Removal Options
After you have reviewed your manufacturer’s warranty, it is time to select the snow removal method that works best for your field. Below are just a few of the options. Other factors that can impact your removal method include the type of snow and field layout.
Snowplow
When dealing with wet, heavy snow a snowplow may be the best method for removal. If a snowplow must be used to clear the field, there are a few best practices to follow. For instance, many manufacturers recommend attaching a PVC pipe to the bottom of the blade. This protective barrier helps keep the blade from digging into the infill and ruining the turf backing. Note that when using a plow, it is also necessary to consult your maintenance manual about your field’s load limit as too heavy vehicles can impact the subgrade.
Additionally, be mindful of the machine’s tires. Turf tires are optimal for this method of removal as they are least likely to impact the field. During operation, ensure that no sharp turns are taken, and no track equipment is used.
Improper selection and use of these machines can result in costly repairs. However, when executed properly, this method can be fast and efficient when trying to meet a deadline.
Leaf Blower
A leaf blower can be a great option for removing lighter, powdery snow. If you select this option, it is important to use a low setting so as not to remove or pile up the infill in unwanted areas.
Natural Snow Melt
If there is no scheduled use for the field the best option is to let the snow melt naturally. This will ensure that the infill and base material will remain intact.
Be Prepared
Weather is unpredictable but having a maintenance plan in place helps keep your field ready for the next spring game and delays damage to your field. For additional best practices and maintenance information, be sure to contact Nemaha and/or your turf manufacturer.
If you would like to transition from a natural grass field to an artificial turf field (or vice versa) and have questions about the process, contact us today to learn more.