You may be thinking, “Now, why on earth would I need to water artificial grass?” There are a couple of reasons for this, and it might be worthwhile to know. Watering plays a multifaceted role in not only cleaning the surface but also in ensuring it remains a safe, high-performance playing field. Let’s debunk common myths and provide practical advice to help you get the most out of your investment.
- Cooling the Surface
One primary reason to water sports artificial grass is to cool down the surface. Synthetic fibres can absorb heat, especially during sunny days, making the surface very hot for athletes. Watering helps reduce the surface temperature, creating a more comfortable and safer playing environment. This is particularly crucial during intense games or training sessions in warm climates, where performance and safety are paramount.
- Maintaining Playing Characteristics
Sports artificial grass is designed to mimic the playing characteristics of natural grass. Watering the surface can help maintain these characteristics, particularly regarding traction and ball behaviour. A slightly moist surface can provide a better grip for athletes, reducing the risk of slips and injuries. Additionally, the water can influence how the ball moves on the surface, closely replicating the experience of playing on natural grass.
- Dust and Debris Control
A significant aspect of maintaining sports artificial grass is controlling dust and debris. Unlike natural grass, artificial turf doesn’t have the self-cleaning properties of natural processes like wind movement or rain. The density of synthetic fibres means that dust, pollen, and other airborne particles can settle on the surface and stay there. This accumulation can affect the quality of play by making the surface slippery or uneven but can also impact athletes’ health, especially those with allergies or respiratory issues. Regular watering helps to settle these particles, effectively “washing” the turf and keeping the air and surface cleaner. Watering your sports artificial grass can significantly reduce the presence of these irritants, ensuring a cleaner and safer environment for everyone using the facility. This simple yet effective step in sports surface maintenance ensures your artificial grass remains a pristine and inviting field for all sorts of athletic activities.
- Enhancing Durability and Longevity
Watering sports artificial grass can also contribute to its durability and longevity. While synthetic turf is tough, regular use and exposure to elements can cause wear and tear. Watering can help keep the fibres supple and prevent them from becoming brittle and breaking down over time. This simple maintenance step can extend the life of your sports field, ensuring it remains a high-quality playing surface for years to come.
- Maintaining Aesthetic Appeal and Performance of Sports Artificial Grass
While it’s true that synthetic turf doesn’t need water to thrive as living grass does, periodic rinsing can significantly enhance its appearance, giving it a fresh, vibrant look. Watering your artificial turf every few weeks can make a noticeable difference. It washes away dust and fine particles that can dull the surface’s appearance over time. But the benefits of watering go beyond just cosmetic enhancement. Depending on the type of infill used – whether it’s sand, rubber, or a combination – adding water can improve how well the blades of grass stand upright. This is crucial not just for the turf’s appearance but also for its functionality.
- Eliminating Odour in Sports Artificial Grass
Odour management is a crucial aspect of maintaining sports artificial grass, especially in high-usage areas. Synthetic turf can trap odours from sweat, beverages, and even pet waste if it’s an area accessible to animals. These smells can become deeply embedded in the turf fibres and infill, creating an unpleasant experience for athletes and spectators alike.
Watering your sports artificial grass plays a significant role in combating these odours. A routine rinse can help wash away the immediate sources of smell. However, for more persistent odours, a deeper cleaning may be necessary. This can involve using a mixture of water and an environmentally friendly cleaner designed for synthetic turf. These cleaners are formulated to break down odours at a molecular level without damaging the turf fibres.
Watering sports artificial grass may seem counterintuitive at first, but it’s a vital part of maintaining a top-tier sports facility. Embracing this practice will ensure your sports field remains a state-of-the-art facility, offering athletes the best possible conditions for training and competition. Remember, the goal is to provide an optimal playing environment, and watering your sports artificial grass is a key step in achieving that.
Contact us for any questions on maintaining or cleaning your artificial grass.