WINTERIZATION
Blowing out an irrigation system should only be attempted by a knowledgeable person since , if done incorrectly , this process can be dangerous . Unfortunately , in some areas where cold temperatures and bitter winds desiccate the turf , it may be necessary to recharge the system , irrigate and re-winterize it in order to maintain field quality . It ’ s not just grass that needs care , either . “ Fall is a good time to have infield laser grading performed as sports that use infields are often using the fields in February ,” said Munie . “ It is often too wet to get such services done in the winter .”
SYNTHETIC FIELD CARE Having a field that stays green all year long doesn ’ t mean it ’ s maintenance-free , said John Schedler of Baraka Sport .
“ Owners need to coordinate with the manufacturers or vendors to discuss snow and ice treatment to make sure they do not void their warranties ,” he said .
No matter how badly athletes ( and coaches ) want to practice , do not use ice-melting compounds without checking with the manufacturer or installer .
“ One thing that is often overlooked is frozen infill and even certain pad systems ,” Schedler added . “ While it looks safe , the field may still have hidden issues . Moisture can freeze within the infill and the pad . Synthetic turf should warm up with exposure to the sun , even in freezing conditions , but should always be thoroughly checked before saying it ’ s safe for use .” SFM
Photo by HNP , LLC
Mary Helen Sprecher wrote this on behalf of the American Sports Builders Association ( ASBA ). Full information on design , construction , maintenance , amenities and accessories for sports fields ( natural , synthetic and hybrid ) can be found in the American Sports Builders Association ’ s publication , Sports Fields : A Construction & Maintenance Manual . This publication can be purchased in either hard copy or in PDF format . Information is available at www . sportsbuilders . org .
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