Snow + Ice Removal From Synthetic Turf Fields

When winter weather arrives in Texas it makes its presence known.  While we are all eager to get back to playing, there are a few crucial things to know about handling snow or ice on your synthetic turf surface. 

best course of action

Do nothing and let mother nature handle it for you.  Your field is designed to vertically drain water away.  Let the sun and slightly warmer temperatures help by simply melting the snow and/or ice for you.  This is especially true after significant ice events where extra caution should be taken to not damage the fibers on your field.  This is the best route to ensure long-term quality of your turf playing surface. 

the basics

If your field must be used before the snow or ice can melt naturally you should consult your specific manufacturer recommendations for snow/ice removal.  Below are the most common Do’s and Don’ts to clear your field for action: 

Process:

• Clear snow and push to the sidelines.

• Break-up ice with appropriate equipment and push to sidelines.

• Remove snow + ice accumulation from sidelines with appropriate equipment.

• Groom field to re-level turf infill as best possible (this may need to be done once the field has dried out and the infill no longer holds moisture).

Do:

• Let mother nature lend a hand. 

• Use appropriate equipment such as:
  • Small lawn roller to break up the ice (ONLY in most urgent, extreme cases).
  • Use a blade with PVC or rubber lip to remove snow and avoid damaging the fibers. 
  • Blowers and laymore sweepers may be used to clear snow or ice once broken-up. Brushes should be set to just above the infill level of the surface to avoid sweeping material up with the snow/ice.
  • Equipment outfitted with turf tires.

Don’t:

• Do not prematurely remove snow/ice.  This can cause additional freezing to the field if the damp surface is exposed to cold winds.  Leave snow/ice in place until as close to game time as possible.

• Do not use tarps.  They risk becoming frozen to the surface and damaging the turf upon removal.

• Do not apply chemicals to de-ice your field.  These can cause damage to your fibers. This includes salt, mineral salt, calcium chloride and other corrosive materials. 

• Do not apply direct heat to the fibers.  Blowers should only be used to clear snow and not for melting ice accumulation on the surface. When using handheld blowers, they should be aimed across the surface, not directly down at it.

Luckily for us Texans, as quickly as our weather may turn bad it can also improve.  With a little patience, mother nature can be your best ally in clearing snow/ice accumulation on your field.  Once the weather passes, and if your field still needs a little care, reach out to us.  Our turf maintenance program can get your field back to game ready.