While commonly referred to as ‘all-weather’, even most durable of 3G pitches cannot withstand really cold weather. In particular, there’s no stopping snow or ice from forming which can then lead to an unusable surface and the gradual deterioration in performance. So, how do you ensure that your pitch stays in the very best condition when it is so exposed to the elements?
How to maintain your 3G pitch this winter
In the UK, we are lucky to not see snow that often but when we do, it inevitably causes disruption to most things. If it snows, there are two things you can do. Firstly, you can remove the snow as soon as it falls, to allow the moisture under to dry quicker. However, when doing so take care with regards to what equipment you use to not to remove any of the infill as this would have a direct effect on the playing characteristics and could cause damage to the fibres. If the snow has fallen, thawed and then re-frozen, do not attempt to remove it as doing so will damage your pitch.
If snow falls and you are unable to remove it immediately then you need to wait for the snow to melt.
Frost or a freeze is more common, with low temperatures overnight resulting in the moisture held in the pitch freezing. The artificial surface has a low core temperature which means you might find that natural areas around your 3G pitch defrost quicker.
To prevent your pitch from freezing, we advise applying pure dried vacuum salt (PDV salt) as a preventative measure before the freeze occurs. This is not a de-icer so it will not work unless it is laid before the temperature falls. The amount you will need will depend on the size of your 3G pitch, and you’ll need to spread the salt then brush it into the surface. Depending on how long the freeze lasts will determine how often you need to repeat this process.
Importantly, do not use any other product but PDV salt. Products such as rock salt, grit or any chemical based solution can all damage your pitch.
If the ground does freeze unexpectedly then you need to wait for it to thaw. Freezing can cause an expansion of the infill, which can affect its future performance and life expectancy. After a freeze ensure that you check the pitch thoroughly before use and if there is any damage then get it fixed immediately.
How PRO-gran could help
While even a superior infill can’t withstand frost and snow, if well-maintained it can offer you a guarantee of quality no matter what the climate delivers.
Our newest polymeric infill, PRO-gran, has been engineered to provide unsurpassed performance, and with the correct maintenance, it will continue to deliver the best playing experience of any other artificial pitch infill, for at least 10 years.
Take a look here to see how PRO-gran can deliver the best performance of any other infill or give us a call today to find out why we can guarantee PRO-gran is safe for the players and the wider environment.
Image credit: Technical Surfaces