Sand Based Astro Turf Maintenance

Even though sand-based artificial turf has many advantages over grass, and does not need regular mowing, feeding and watering, it will need at least annual maintenance, depending on use. This will include brushing and drag brushing to redistribute the sand across the surface of the pitch to prevent compaction in areas of heaving use, and sand top ups with a product designed for this purpose, to address the natural migration of the sand through time. Without these two aspects, you are more likely to have an accident or injury, and drainage will be reduced. If you haven’t had regular and appropriate maintenance and your pitch is starting to be covered in weeds or algae, or if there are tears in the carpet of the pitch or lines have become detached from their backing, these all create hazards for pitch users (and your pocket).

The best sand for artificial grass infill will be designed to prevent the growth of weeds and other contaminants. Even so, you will need to ensure on a regular basis, according to usage, that you conduct maintenance of your sand-infill to redistribute the sand and ensure maximum usability. This should include brushing and drag brushing, moss and algae treatments and sand top-ups if needed.

Over time, sand infill will migrate across the surface of the artificial grass pitch. Incorrect infill levels lead to excessive fibre wear, premature ageing of the surface, inconsistent performance, and greatly increases the likelihood of compaction. On some surfaces, it may be necessary to remove excess infill or re-spread it across the whole of the surface. Infill can also be cleaned and returned to the surface.

A regular maintenance plan need not be unattainable to an amateur enthusiast and can extend the life of your sand-based AstroTurf pitch by 50 per cent, or five years, according to use and circumstances. If you rely on the sports pitch for a living, it will ensure that your pitch is in top condition, all year round.

Drag brushing, sand top-ups and deep cleaning all depend on specialist equipment, materials and expertise that are beyond the experience of most private and commercial sports pitches. Astrocare can supply a quote for stand-alone services such as a sand or rubber crumb top up, or for a regular maintenance package. Astrocare, tennis court maintenance packages start at just £500 per court or surface, per year. Drag brushing, sand top-ups, deep cleaning and line and carpet repairs all depend on specialist equipment, materials and expertise that is beyond the experience of most private and commercial sports pitches. Astrocare maintenance packages start at just £500 per court or surface, per year.