Last Updated on July 18, 2022 by UDC Sports
Undoubtedly, football is one of the most popular sports in America. And as the sport has continued to grow in popularity, so too has the need for quality football fields.
Many communities now have artificial turf football fields, which can be used for a variety of sporting events and activities.
But how are these fields constructed? Let’s take a look.
Planning is the first step in any construction project, and artificial turf football fields are no different. The process begins with a site survey to determine the size and layout of the field. This is followed by a soil analysis to ensure that the ground is suitable for turf installation.
Once the planning is complete, the next step is to prepare the site for construction. This usually involves clearing the area of debris and leveling the ground.
In order to have a successful and long lasting artificial turf football field, it is crucial to come up with an effective drainage solution. One of the most important aspects of this is ensuring that the field has proper slopes and grades to promote drainage.
Additionally, it is important to ensure enough drains are installed around the field to collect any water that does accumulate.
When you are installing artificial turf, it is important to use the proper base materials to ensure a long lasting and durable surface.
The first layer is a compacted soil base, which provides a stable foundation for the turf. A layer of compacted gravel can also be utilized during this step.
Next, a layer of crushed stone is added to help with drainage. Finally, a layer of sand is added to provide a soft, even surface for the turf.
Once all of the base layers are in place, the artificial turf can be installed. This process may seem like a lot of work, but it is necessary to ensure that your artificial turf will last for many years to come.
Once the site is ready, installing the turf is next. This process starts with laying down a base layer of gravel or sand. The turf is then installed on top of this base, and it is secured in place with nails or staples.
Finally, infill material (such as sand or rubber pellets) is spread over the surface of the turf to protect it from wear and tear.
Artificial turf fields have become increasingly popular in recent years, resulting in a greater need for safety testing. GMAX testing is one way to assess the safety of an artificial turf field.
GMAX testing measures the shock attenuation of turf systems and is an important safety metric. It is typically performed on new fields prior to installation to ensure the system meets specifications and again after installation to verify the system has been installed correctly.
The test measures the shock absorption of the turf, and it is typically conducted with a drop-weight device. The device is dropped from a specified height onto the turf, and the resulting force is measured.
A high GMAX score indicates that the turf is firm and offers little shock absorption, which can increase the risk of injuries. A low GMAX score indicates that the turf is soft and offers good shock absorption, making it a safer playing surface.
The entire process can take several weeks to complete, but the end result is a high-quality artificial turf football field that will provide years of enjoyment for players and spectators alike.
