Tips To Make Turf Last Longer

Many types of sports fields make use of turf for their grass since it offers a more controllable green lawn that costs less to maintain. However, abusing your turf makes it necessary to replace the material sooner than anticipated, sometimes costing more than if you went with regular grass.

Artificial turf, also known as synthetic grass, offers a significantly longer lifespan compared to natural grass while requiring alternative maintenance. With advances in technology, today’s artificial turf can withstand heavy usage for up to 15-20 years, depending on the quality and maintenance practices. Unlike natural grass, which demands regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing, artificial turf eliminates the need for such time-consuming tasks.

With these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your turf and enjoy a more robust, cleaner playing field for the season.

Weed The Turf

Most types of turf act as a barrier against weeds and other plant growth, but artificial lawns still have a perimeter. Grass and weeds can still grow along the borders, making it a necessity to keep them weeded and trimmed back. If left unchecked, these plants can ruin your turf by growing into its edges and destroying the fabric holding the turf together. An easy way to control your turf includes using weed killer to keep new growth from popping up.

Don’t Use Metal Cleats

Some sports shoes have metal cleats on the bottom, which is handy while playing but detrimental to your turf. Certain types of cleats can do worse than shoving a sharp knife into the mesh, causing rips or tears that could damage the entire fabric of the turf. High-traffic areas see worse problems with this damage than other places.

Keep Turf Clear Of Debris

Just as metal cleats can damage turf, so can leaves, sticks, and other natural debris. If these materials happen to snag the mesh beneath your turf, they can cause rips and tears that put the entire turf in jeopardy. Waste, such as spilled liquids or animal droppings, can damage the turf or the mesh beneath it, weakening the material so it tears more easily during cleaning or play.

Check Out Your Warranty

Most turf comes with a warranty describing what the manufacturer can replace and under what circumstances. Knowing your turf’s warranty helps you avoid any actions that might undermine it while explaining what to do in case you need to ask for your warranty’s fulfillment. Before you make any major changes to your installed turf, read over your warranty to see what changes will or won’t void it.

Wash Away Excess Chemicals

Some chemicals have caustic properties that can eat away at the fabric beneath the turf or even destroy the turf itself. After cleaning your turf or spraying it down for weeds or insects, wait an appropriate amount of time, then spray it down again. Washing away these chemicals before they destroy your turf can save you money in turf replacement or repairs while also saving you from having to utilize your warranty too early.

Professional Sports Field Turf Maintenance in Millbrook, AL

No matter your turf needs, professionally installed turf lasts longer than grass and provides a more uniform color. If you are looking to construct a new sports field that needs a layer of turf, the professionals at River Region Sports Fields can help. Call (205) 617-4884 and learn more about turfing your sports field today.