If you’re planning a football field for a U.S high school or university, you may be undecided between natural grass and artificial turf.
Artificial turf has several key benefits that make it an attractive option for schools.
It can be more durable, require less maintenance, and even provide additional safety features that may be beneficial for student athletes.
With all of these advantages in mind, artificial turf may be the best choice for your school’s football field.
In this article, we’ll discuss why synthetic turf might be the right decision for your football field, its implications on the safety of players, and how to ensure proper installation and maintenance of synthetic turf.
By weighing the pros and cons of both natural grass and artificial turf, you can arrive at an informed decision that is right for your school.
How Much Does Artificial Turf Cost for a Football Field?
The cost of installing a sport specific artificial turf field can vary greatly depending on a number of factors.
The material type, size, and location will all affect the price. To give you a better idea of the typical cost for a turf field, we will use an average quality synthetic turf for an 80,000 square foot football field in the United States as a baseline.
The total cost for such an installation is likely to be quite expensive, however the long-term benefits are sure to outweigh the upfront cost.
A properly maintained turf field can look great and provide excellent playing conditions for anywhere from 10 to 15 years or more.
Therefore, investing in a good quality turf field is well worth the investment.
Base Preparation / Drainage Costs
On average, if you invest in a drainage system for an 80,000 square foot football field, you can expect to pay roughly $4.00 per square foot, which adds up to a total cost of $320,000.
However, this may be well worth it – a drainage system installed correctly can help preserve your field for as long as 30 years, making it an excellent long-term investment.
Proper environmental conditions on the field will ensure a safe playing environment for any games taking place, and can help enhance the quality of play afforded by the field, improving the overall experience.
What’s more, regular maintenance and upkeep of the drainage system could help maintain the quality and longevity of the field, ensuring its initial investment is getting the most out of your money.
Synthetic Turf Material and Installation Cost
Investing in quality turf carpet can be an expensive venture, but the right choice can pay off in the long run. On average, a standard turf carpet, complete with materials and installation costs, will generally come to around $5.00 per square foot of space for a decent quality product.
This means that a football field costing 80,000 square feet would add up to a total expenditure of around $400,000.
Lower cost alternatives exist in the form of synthetic turf carpets, which offer material and installation costs as low as $3.75 per square foot – amounting to a total of $300,000.
However, it is important to keep in mind that opting for the cheaper version may come at the expense of durability, which could affect its suitability for use in sports contexts.
Naturally, purchasing natural grass tends to be more economical upfront with a materials cost of only $2.85 per square foot, or $228,000 in total for a football field.
However, the initial savings you make are offset by higher ongoing maintenance costs – so it is essential to do your homework before committing to either option in order to ensure that the decision is cost effective and appropriate for the desired use.
Turf Equipment and Maintenance Costs
Synthetic turf football fields have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their low equipment and maintenance costs.
An artificial bed of microfibers averages just $5,000 in maintenance costs annually, making it a far more cost-effective option when compared to actual grass.
Real grass fields can come with a much higher annual maintenance cost, ranging anywhere from $13,000 to $23,000, depending on several factors.
Not only does synthetic turf require less upkeep, but it also offers a consistently safe and even playing surface, free of mud and divots, providing a better overall experience for competitors and spectators alike.
With such a wide range of benefits, it is no surprise that many teams and leagues are switching to synthetic turf.
Turf Football Field Cost in Total
Investing in a synthetic turf field for a 80,000 square foot football field is a substantial investment.
On average, the initial cost of establishing a drainage basin, procuring needed materials, and installing the turf field itself is estimated to be around $720,000.
However, in order to maintain a quality playing surface and maximize the lifespan of the installed turf, an annual maintenance cost of approximately $5,000 will need to be factored into the budget.
This means that over a ten year period, the overall expense for installing and maintaining a synthetic turf field will come to a total cost of $770,000.
Though initially expensive, the investment in synthetic turf is a worthwhile one that offers a safe and durable surface ideal for sports.
How Long will a Synthetic Football Field Turf Last?
When it comes to artificial football turf, the lifespan of your field ultimately depends on proper upkeep and usage frequency.
If a field is kept in good condition and maintained regularly, it can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years.
However, many high-school and college football fields are replaced after only 10 to 12 years since they experience a high volume of use by athletes.
It’s important to properly maintain the turf in order to ensure the longevity and overall safety of your field.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Turf Football Field?
Installing a turf field of 80,000 square feet – the size of your typical high school football field – can be a complex and involved process.
It involves determining the area, assessing the quality of the material, and verifying the stability of the existing ground the turf field is to be laid upon.
Once these factors are considered, the installation itself can begin. This includes laying down the drainage basin, placing the material, and preparing it for use.
The entire process may take up to 60 days or two months to complete in its entirety.
Ultimately, the time it takes to install a turf field depends on the resources available and the labor applied to the task.
What Happens When it Needs Replacement?
After a decade of usage, the turf is likely to experience a reduction in its splendour, softness and structure.
To prevent flooding, ensure that the drainage system is regularly maintained and intact; otherwise, you may face serious issues with standing water, even if only minor ground damage has been caused.
By following these simple steps, you can safeguard your turf’s longevity and preserve its vibrant colouring.
Time for Football Turf Field Replacement
The indications that a turf field needs replacing are unmistakable, and the task of doing so can be accomplished in a relatively short period of time – usually between 60-90 days.
However, to ensure that the replacement turf is installed correctly and securely, it is necessary to account for the preparation of the area involved: leveling and grading the site, as well as removing any debris.
Furthermore, the installation process itself – clearing the area and then laying the turf, along with additional layers of protection and maintenance – must be completed thoroughly and with great care to guarantee that the new turf can withstand wear and tear, and will last for many seasons to come.
Recycling Old Turf
Disposing of used turf fields is typically done through two primary methods: shipping for recycling or incineration.
While these options seem fairly straightforward, it’s important to consider the safety risk associated with incineration.
Incineration poses a higher risk to human health and the environment than shipping for recycling, as hazardous materials such as lead and volatile organic compounds are released into the atmosphere.
Shipping turf fields for recycling allows them to be reused more sustainably, reducing environmental impacts that come with manufacturing new turf fields.
The benefits of recycling turf fields over incinerating them make it a more obvious choice.
Inspecting Drainage Base
After carefully inspecting the existing drainage base and assessing any damage, you may need to build a replacement drainage basin in order to install the new turf field.
However, if the current drainage base is in good condition, you can go ahead and replace your old turf field with a new one.
The process is not overly complicated if the drainage base is well-maintained and undamaged.
Depending on the condition of the drainage base, the timeframe for replacing the turf field may vary, but either way, having a secure drainage base is critical for successful installation.
Considerations for Field Turf Warranty
Investing in a turf field for your school can be a substantial investment, so it’s vital that you carefully review all the warranty specifications and conditions provided by the manufacturer.
It’s important to ensure that you are fully aware of what is covered and what is not, as this can prevent any unpleasant surprises down the line.
It’s essential to make sure that you understand any time frame limitations as well as any coverage limits as these can drastically affect how long the warranty will last and how much protection it provides.
Ultimately, by taking the time to properly assess your warranty details, you can make an informed decision about the best option for your school.
Warranty Terms and Duration
When selecting a manufacturer for turf fields, it is critical that your institution’s needs are taken into consideration in order to ensure the most suitable warranty terms.
Generally, turf fields can last up to eight years with the right warranty, though this length of coverage will vary by manufacturer.
Knowing your institution’s individual requirements in advance can help you to select the best warranty terms that are tailored to your institution’s specific need.
Not only will this provide peace of mind, but it will also ensure you get the most out of your turf field investment.
Claims
Most manufacturers offer a warranty agreement that outlines their non-liability for defects caused by ‘normal wear and tear’ associated with synthetic grass products.
However, they typically guarantee that no defects will occur during installation, as long as the installation process is strictly followed and the proper rules and instructions are put into practice.
This ensures that everyone involved in the installation process works to the best of their ability to ensure the turf field will be defect-free upon completion.
A good quality turf field provides numerous benefits, including reduced maintenance costs and improved aesthetics, making it well worth the effort to ensure its successful installation.
Warranty Guidelines
To ensure that your turf field will remain undamaged and in optimal condition for its entire lifespan, finding a manufacturer with reliable and long-lasting warranties is key.
Make sure to research the specific maintenance practices and guidelines provided by the manufacturer to keep your product working like the day you bought it.
Familiarizing yourself with the common sources of damage that can affect turf fields can help you in properly maintaining your purchase and avoiding costly repairs.
By following these steps, you can be confident that your turf field will stay in excellent condition for the duration of its lifespan.
Why Should You Choose Artificial Turf Over Natural Grass for Football Fields?
There are a number of keen advantages of choosing artificial turf over natural grass including:
Maintenance Costs
Artificial turf has numerous advantages when it comes to maintenance costs.
Not only does artificial turf require only a fraction of the cost of natural grass – up-to $5,000 per annum compared to up-to $23,000 for natural grass – but it is also significantly easier to maintain.
Artificial turf does not require watering, mowing, fertilizing or reseeding, making it much simpler and more efficient in terms of keeping up with annual maintenance costs.
In fact, due to its low-maintenance qualities, many organizations and homeowners are beginning to switch to artificial turf in order to save on yearly expenses associated with lawn upkeep.
The benefits of artificial turf over natural grass when it comes to managing costs and minimizing labor makes it a highly attractive option.
Useable in All Types of Weather
Artificial turf can be a great solution for many sports fields and outdoor surfaces as it does not require frequent maintenance and enables the use of a playing area in all weather conditions.
With no need to worry about flooding or dampened grass, you can enjoy a superior playing surface all year round, creating an ideal environment for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Rain or shine, artificial turf is designed to be both durable and resilient to the toughest weather conditions.
Its low maintenance needs come with additional benefits such as improved game attendance and reduced repair costs.
Field Endurance and Durability
Artificial turf is an extremely robust, long-lasting material that can withstand years of use and abuse.
It’s much more durable than natural grass, so it requires far less maintenance and upkeep to keep it in pristine condition.
Not only is artificial turf more reliable, but it also stays greener and healthier over time, meaning that users can enjoy an aesthetically pleasing surface all year round without having to worry about its quality or appearance deteriorating.
It’s no wonder so many people are choosing to install artificial turf on their lawns – it offers a resilient surface that won’t damage easily and will always look great no matter how much you use it.
Consistent Texture
Artificial turf is designed to offer the look and feel of real grass with its consistent texture.
It provides a beautiful, even surface that appears like an endless ocean of grass.
Unlike natural grass, artificial turf is much easier to maintain, saving time and money when it comes to lawn care.
The turf is also composed of strong, durable synthetic fiber that resists fading, staining, and wear, making it an ideal option for areas with high levels of foot traffic.
With no need for regular mowing and watering, the turf remains lush and vibrant, without the risk of brown spots of dry grass intermixed with green grass.
Water Conservation
Synthetic material such as artificial turf provides a more sustainable alternative to natural grass, given that it does not require water for growth in the same way as grass does.
It doesn’t need nearly as much water as natural grass to maintain its condition, as long as any spills or messes are regularly cleaned.
With artificial turf, maintenance is simple and water usage is far less than natural grass, making it an ideal choice for public spaces looking to conserve water.
No Pesticide or Fertilizer Usage
Synthetic grass presents a unique set of advantages over natural grass that make it ideal for landscaping and turf fields.
With synthetic turf, you won’t have to worry about pests or insects infesting the area, weeds taking over, or spending extra money on fertilizer.
In contrast, with a natural grass field, there is a greater need for both pesticides and fertilizers in order to maintain its health and appearance.
Not only does this require additional cost, but also more effort and time spent caring for it.
By choosing to use synthetic grass for your field or landscaping project, you can eliminate both the cost and effort associated with using pesticides and fertilizers.
How to Choose a Vendor for Purchasing a Football Turf Field?
When shopping for a synthetic grass football field, there are a few key factors you should take into account.
Selecting the right manufacturer can be the difference between having a successful long-term field or dealing with a costly and time-consuming headache.
Make sure to consider the following four points when choosing a turf field provider:
first, search for reliable user reviews from current and past customers;
second, ask about their product warranty;
third, verify the company’s certification and experience;
and fourth, inquire about service after purchase.
These four considerations will help make sure you’re getting the best quality product for your money that will exceed your expectations now and in the future.
Durability
When selecting a turf field for your sports-field, you want one that is of the highest quality and durability.
Doing so ensures that it will not only last a long time but also withstand any damage that may occur in the long run.
For this reason, it is important to research different manufacturers and carefully review the durability of their products to make sure it meets your needs.
It is wise to take into account customer reviews and recommendations to get an unbiased opinion of the quality of the product.
Doing this will help guarantee that you get a turf field that is both long-lasting and reliable.
Installation Methodology
When choosing a manufacturer for the installation of your turf field, it is important to find one that is experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to Football field installations.
Taking the time to research how they install the turf and their past experiences, will ensure you have the most aesthetically pleasing and precise installation, leaving you with high-quality results that will last for years.
A specialized manufacturer with experience in installing turf in high schools and colleges can offer the best installation experience possible, giving you the peace of mind that the quality and precision of your turf field will be top-notch.
Investing in such a manufacturer is an investment that will prove beneficial in the long run.
Warranty
When selecting a manufacturer for a product, it is essential to closely examine the warranty terms that the company has to offer.
Since the terms of the warranty will have a direct impact on the utility of the product, it is important to take the time to evaluate them carefully and make sure they are in line with your expectations.
Different manufacturers may have different types of warranties available and varied warranties depending on individual circumstances.
Due to this, it is important to consider the specific details of each warranty plan to ensure it meets your needs.
Furthermore, it is important that any warranties from manufacturers are not overly vague as this could lead to disappointment or additional confusion.
Taking all of this into account, finding a reputable manufacturer with warranty terms that best suit your situation should be top priority.
Reputation
With so many turf field manufacturers to choose from, it’s important to consider your needs and research which manufacturer can best meet them.
It’s important to consider a few things: the quality of the product, the price, and any associated warranty terms.
To ensure that you are receiving the best product for your needs, examine the reputation of each manufacturer.
Look for reviews and feedback from other customers, as well as any industry awards or accolades that the manufacturer may have received.
Once you have found a manufacturer whose reputation checks off all the items on your list, you’ll be able to confidently select them for your turf field project.
Not only will you be confident that the product is of the highest quality, but you’ll also know that you won’t be taken advantage of with unreasonable pricing or warranty terms.
Doing your research prior to selecting a turf field manufacturer is the key to making sure you get the best product and service.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a surface for your school or institution’s football field, a synthetic turf field may be a wise choice.
Not only is the cost of a synthetic turf field significantly lower and maintenance requirements low, but the field can also provide a more uniform and consistent appearance than a grass field.
It is essential that you choose the right manufacturer for your field: look into their warranty terms and conditions, financial costs, reputation, and industry profile.
Ultimately, a synthetic turf field could be a great low-cost and durable long-term option for any school or institution looking for an alternative to a grass field.