Artificial sports turf has been used on athletic fields since the 1960s, primarily for its durability and low-maintenance characteristics. Unlike natural grass, artificial turf doesn't require routine tasks like mowing, fertilizing, or regular watering. However, a common question remains: Does artificial sports turf need water?
Cooling the Turf, Not Nourishing It
While artificial grass doesn’t require water to stay healthy like natural grass does, it still benefits from occasional watering, especially during warmer weather. The main reason for watering artificial turf is temperature control. On hot days, the synthetic material of the turf can become very warm to the touch, which can make the playing surface uncomfortable or even unsafe for athletes. Watering the turf helps to cool it down, making it more pleasant for players to use.
The Role of Water in Turf Management
Field managers, especially those in charge of sports facilities at schools or stadiums, typically activate the sprinkler system shortly before a game or practice. This quick spray of water significantly lowers the temperature of the field, providing a safer and more comfortable playing surface. As one field manager noted, "It helps bring down the temperature of the field," referring to the role of irrigation in cooling artificial turf during warm months.
Practical Usage of Water on Artificial Turf
So, while artificial sports turf doesn’t need water in the same way that natural grass does, occasional watering remains a key practice for ensuring player safety and comfort during hotter weather. If you're considering switching to artificial turf for your sports field and someone asks, "Does artificial sports turf need water?"—the answer is yes, but only occasionally, and primarily for cooling purposes.