Frequently Asked Questions

The Gmax test performed under ASTM 1936-10 and F355-10 tells us what we can’t see regarding how hard the turf is. With the concerns of concussions today and more attorneys’ understanding what Gmax testing is it is imperative as an insurance policy that you understand how hard your field is. The field changes daily, weekly, monthly and yearly and should be done annually. Also, most warranties provided with the synthetic turf field require a Gmax test be done to ensure that the field hardness falls beneath the limits of 200g’s.

Many times the crumb rubber infill becomes hydrophobic and will not allow water to pass through it until the hydrophobicity is broken. This happens when the field is groomed properly on regular intervals, is regularly cleaned and proper infill depths are maintained. When a field is neglected, the sunlight bakes the fibers and surface infill, changing the molecular structure of the particles. When dust, dirt, pollen, skin cells, etc. build up water cannot drain through.

Removing standing water is simple. Pull a grooming broom through the ponding area and use a metal leaf rake to break the hydrophobic pressure. In extreme cases, the area can be sprayed with a solution of liquid Tide laundry detergent at a rate of 1 cup per 2 gallons of water.

It’s rare that sand ever needs to be added. Typically within the first few years of a new field, the sand migrates to the bottom of the turf fibers and remains there throughout the life of the turf. There are occasions in high use areas (lacrosse goal creases, center strike area, soccer penalty kick mark, batters boxes, etc.) where more sand may need to be added to lessen the abrasiveness and movement of the infill by the athletes. Be careful not to add too much sand and create a hard spot that will show up on the Gmax test.

No, the sunlight is the best disinfectant we have. However, indoor turf does need to be disinfected. You can use a solution of liquid Tide laundry detergent at a rate of 1 cup in 2 gallons of water. Mist the turf with the solution and allow it to dry. Treat vomit and blood the same way you would on a carpet or hard floor. Remove what you can and rinse it through with cool clean water.

Fibers lie over due to lack of infill and maintenance.

When turfs fibers begin to break down they split, break and deteriorate into small hair-like pieces. Much like an older person whose hair begins to thin, this happens when the turf has reached the end of its life (unless there is a warranty issue with fiber failure).

This is one of the top questions we receive from customers. The life of your turf depends on the quality of the fiber, the amount of fiber in the turf, the maintenance history and how much sunlight and use your turf gets. Maintaining the turf with regards to infill depth, cleaning, grooming, repairs, etc., will help extend the life of your turf. In some cases, this may be double the turf’s life expectancy. Once turf begins to degrade and break down, it accelerates quickly and in time will become unsafe.