3G pitches have become a popular choice for football, rugby and hockey facilities as they are durable and provide an all-weather surface. However, they do require a certain amount of maintenance to keep them in optimum condition. This article explores some key steps in maintaining a 3G surface.
The first step in maintaining a 3G pitch is to understand how the surface will be used. This will determine how much 3G pitch maintenance is needed, for example, a pitch that receives very little use would need less maintenance than one which is used regularly and is subject to high levels of wear. It is also important to know how the surface will perform so that the site ground-team can carry out routine tests on the surface to monitor performance and identify potential problems.
Regular maintenance is essential for all sports surfaces and this is particularly the case for 3G pitches. It is vital to remove any debris and contamination from the turf before it can fester. This can be done by using a broom, leaf blower or even a rotavator. This will remove any loose materials from the access points, perimeter run-offs and the actual pitch. It will also prevent the build up of a layer of material that inhibits drainage on the pitch.
Infill maintenance is another essential part of keeping a 3G surface in good condition. The rubber infill found on synthetic grass sports surfaces (apart from water-based hockey pitches which have no infill) is there to support the artificial fibres and ensure traction. This is especially important during high use periods or in windy conditions. Regular brushing of the pitch will help to prevent infill migration and to decompact and redistribute the rubber infill throughout the carpet pile.
In addition to the regular brushing of the pitch, a deep cleaning treatment should be carried out annually or as a minimum every 2nd year on all 3G surfaces. This involves an aggressive brushing process that gets into the carpet pile deeper, removing any dirt and broken-down rubber infill particles from the surface. This will improve the surface, reduce matting and help to redistribute the infill in order to keep it at its optimum level.
Lastly, any drainage issues on a 3G surface should be addressed as soon as possible. If a pitch is not drained quickly, it can be susceptible to flooding and other issues that could damage the surface. To combat this, a simple application of PDV salts (powdered dry vacuum) can be applied to the surface before a game is played.
Maintaining a 3G pitch may seem like a lot of work but it is important to get it right in order to maximise the benefits and longevity of the surface. A well-maintained artificial surface is safer for players, more comfortable and enables better performance levels. This can lead to a higher standard of play and ultimately to greater revenue for clubs, schools and other organisations who use the facility.