The winter season is in full swing. Despite noticeable changes in the weather, periods of snowy winters still occur in Poland, which brings back the topic of availability and maintenance of artificial turf fields. Using artificial turf fields is also possible in winter, but certain rules must be followed to keep the surface efficient and well-maintained for years.
Artificial turf – Properties
Artificial turf is increasingly replacing natural surfaces in sports facilities. One of the reasons for this change is its greater durability and resistance to changing weather conditions.
During laboratory testing, polyethylene fibers used in sports turf are tested for durability across temperatures ranging from –20 to as much as +50 degrees Celsius.
The high thermal resistance of Dywilan woven turf ensures that fiber properties remain unchanged regardless of weather conditions, and our artificial turf systems can be installed on uncovered facilities.
What surface parameters to choose for year-round use
Planning to use an artificial turf field all year round? There are several parameters that can make usage and maintenance easier during heavy autumn rain or snowy winters.
The main challenge in autumn and winter is high humidity and its accumulation in lower layers of the surface. Negative temperatures cause water in the infill to freeze, which leads to hardening of the quartz sand layer. This hardness is noticeable to users and may increase the risk of injury during falls.
To improve usability in winter, the following factors should be considered:
- high water permeability of both the turf and the entire system. The higher the permeability, the faster water drains into the system and does not freeze in the infill. Woven turf is an excellent solution, as it offers several times higher permeability than other technologies. This allows faster drainage, preventing freezing in rubber granulate and ensuring elasticity and safety. Additionally, it prevents water accumulation during summer and autumn;
- high tuft bind strength. Mechanical or manual snow removal can pull fibers from the backing. The higher the tuft bind, the easier it is to remove snow without damaging the turf. Woven turf offers extremely high tuft bind strength, making it highly resistant to damage and among the most durable solutions on the market.
A guide to proper snow removal
Snow is one of the biggest challenges for field maintenance teams. Improper removal can permanently damage the surface and reduce its lifespan from years to just a few seasons.
1. Do not allow excessive snow accumulation
Regular snow removal is essential. The more snow accumulates, the harder it becomes to remove and the more likely heavy equipment will be required.
Changing temperatures and heavy snowfall can also lead to the formation of ice layers close to the surface. During snow removal, a thin layer of snow—up to 40 mm—should be left as a protective layer.
2. Mechanical removal can damage turf fibers
Mechanical snow removal may lift and eventually pull out turf fibers, often leading to permanent damage. It can also remove infill material, reducing elasticity and durability.
The recommended solution is using a snow blower (e.g. rotary type). It does not damage the surface and leaves a safe layer of snow. However, this may be challenging on full-size fields.
Alternatively, small tractors with ploughs can be used. In this case:
- the plough must have a rubber edge
- appropriate tires must be used
When using mechanical removal, leave a thin snow layer (up to 4 cm) as protection. The remaining snow should be removed manually using shovels, carefully avoiding damage to the surface.
If a layer of frozen ice forms directly on the fibers, it should be left to melt naturally or removed manually with care.
Snow removal must always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines.
3. Direction and timing matter
The best time for snow removal is during the warmest part of the day—usually morning or late afternoon.
Snow should be cleared along the seams, not across them.
4. Should salt be used?
Salt accelerates melting, but is it recommended?
No. Salt may discolor synthetic fibers and clog drainage systems, reducing water flow.
5. Frequency of use
Regardless of the season, the field should be used according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and schedule.
Post-winter maintenance
User safety is the priority. After winter, when snow and frost are gone, a detailed inspection should be carried out to assess the condition of the surface and identify any damage.
All debris embedded in the infill should be removed, and the surface should be cleaned thoroughly.
Important preparation steps for the summer season include:
- loosening compacted infill
- restoring its original structure
- topping up infill if needed
- final brushing of the surface
