What Can I do to Repair Damage to Synthetic Turf?

Synthetic turf in stadiums sees a lot of abuse. No stadium wants a beat-up looking arena. Regular repairs and maintenance are required to maintain the stadium’s reputation and professionalism. Repairing turf is different than repairing natural grass.

1. Locate Direction of Gauges

On the underside of synthetic turf are rubbery rows of fibers. Called gauges, these rows of fiber make up the grass on the top side. The first step should be to locate in which direction the fibers run. Placing new fibers in the opposite direction means that the grass will grow in the opposite direction of the fibers around it. This will result in an odd-looking bit of grass to everything else.

2. Vacuum Infill

Before repairs can take place, it’s good practice to vacuum the infill first. Removing the infill entirely will allow the backing to be seen more clearly. When it’s time to cut the piece, it will be more accurate.

3. Cut the Backing

Before you cut the backing, you’ll need to separate the fibers. You don’t want to cut fibers. Rather, you’re trying to just cut the backing. The cut should encompass the area that is damaged. It’s best to use this with a sharp razor knife. The damaged area should be cut and removed.

4. Use Synthetic Turf Seaming Tape

Next, you’ll need to take some synthetic turf seaming tape and fold it into a tube. Once it’s in a tube, place it under the backing. You’ll also need to unfold synthetic turf seaming tape and place it at the center of the repair area. Secure this tape with nails. For larger repairs, you’re going to want to use a lot of seaming tape.

5. Prepare Fibers for Adhesive

An additional step that should be taken is to secure the fibers with blue painters tape. You don’t want the undamaged fibers to be given adhesive. The best way to avoid that is to use painter’s tape to stick them away from the area where the adhesive is going.

6. Apply Adhesive

Follow the directions of use for whatever adhesive you’re choosing. You’ll want to apply the adhesive over the tape as well as beneath the backing. It’s best to use a trowel in order to make the adhesive coating even and smooth.

7. Precut the Replacement Piece

You’ll want to precut the replacement turf after carefully measuring the hole it’s filling. Then you can place the replacement piece on the adhesive. Compress the area for maximum bonding and you are finished.