Maintenance of an artificial turf court

Artificial turf is just as popular as natural grass. More often used as flooring for playing fields such as tennis courts, it is exposed to wear and tear. On the plus side, it requires no regular gardening work, and no mowing either. However, to keep it in good condition, it's essential to follow a few tips. Here's everything you need to know about maintaining a synthetic turf court.

Dry cleaning

Artificial turf is often exposed to dust and various types of waste. To deal with this problem, dry cleaning is the first thing to do. The use of a rake or a soft broom with hard bristles is the best way to rid the court of all kinds of dirt. It is advisable to choose a plastic model to avoid damaging the turf. If you have the means, a blower is also very effective for this task in no time at all.

Water jet for thorough cleaning

Running water over artificial grass can be considered inappropriate. Yet there's nothing better for dusting the entire surface. Apart from cleaning, this procedure will restore the grass to its original color. In the event of a stubborn stain, soapy water can be used, followed by a thorough rinse. This can be done regularly to preserve the shine of the faux grass. Overly aggressive products should also be avoided, to prevent degrading the quality of these artificial grasses.

Brushing to restore life

Contrary to popular belief, brushing an artificial turf court is necessary for proper maintenance. Brush your artificial grass once or twice a year at most. This ensures straight, even strands. The polypropylene brush is ideal for this purpose.

Choosing the right products

As turf is synthetic, the use of chemicals is not recommended, especially those available in supermarkets. Pesticides and weedkillers are also detrimental to the appearance and quality of synthetic turf courts. Ancestral methods and natural products are the best alternatives for controlling pests. And all without damaging the turf.

Weeding is the order of the day

Just because turf is artificial doesn't mean weed control is out of the question. Unfortunately, weeds can find their way into the geotextile to mingle with the artificial turf. So it's imperative to pull them out right down to the roots before laying the turf mat. However, it is possible to use a weedkiller spray. Preventive treatment is recommended once or twice a year. If weeding has not been carried out beforehand, a biodegradable herbicide or one diluted in a little water can be used at a later date. This solution can only be applied a maximum of 2 times a year.

Maintenance methods during the snow and ice season

For fear of damaging the fibers, we may be tempted to do nothing in winter. It's worth pointing out, however, that cleaning and maintenance ensure that the court remains in good condition during a special event. Clearing would then be the ultimate solution if the court is to be available in snowy weather.

If the snow is still sticky, a shovel fitted with a rubber blade is useful for removing it in layers. Care must be taken not to penetrate the primary substrate. The blade should just skim the surface. Finally, a blower is a great help, to clear away any remaining snow. On the other hand, if the snow is already powdery, you can resort directly to a brush or blower.

For ice-covered ground, the layer must first be broken up gently. Once the ice has been broken up, the surface is gradually cleared. If the layer is too thick, special products can be used to melt it. Bear in mind, however, that the use of chemicals creates residues that make the surface slippery or sticky. Rinse thoroughly.

 

 

You now have all the keys you need for easy tennis court maintenance. What's more, VW SPORTS will provide you with the products and materials you need to carry out this operation. We'll also give you the right advice to guide you towards the best choices and effective solutions.