FAQ Sports

Italgreen synthetic turf provides a playing surface that is always available, regardless of weather conditions. It provides uniform performance, high wear resistance even with intensive use, lower maintenance costs than natural grass, and a safe, certified surface designed to reduce the risk of injury. It is also a sustainable solution thanks to selected materials and environmentally friendly production technologies.

Our systems are specifically designed for 11-a-side soccer, 5-a-side soccer, 7-a-side soccer, rugby, field hockey, tennis, padel, volleyball, and other sports.
Each type of field is developed following the regulations of the relevant sports federations and can be customized according to the needs of the facility.

Laying an artificial turf sports field is a complex operation that should be entrusted only to qualified personnel and authorized Italgreen installers. The correct execution of the installation guarantees:

• The perfect flatness of the field, the drainage of rainwater and the absence of depressions
• The adherence of the sheets and the sealing of the joints
• The compliance with the slopes and design specifications
• The approval of the field by sports federations, where required

The main installation steps include:

1. Checking the suitability of the substrate
2. Laying and trimming of the synthetic turf sheets
3. Bonding of the joints using certified techniques and products
4. Tracing and insertion of game markings according to regulations
5. Potting with specific materials (sand, rubber, Geofill, Probiofill)

The infill is a layer of material distributed between the fibers of the synthetic turf, which is essential to ensure optimal sports performance and athlete safety. Italgreen uses different materials depending on the sport and the customer's needs:

• Silica sand: for surface stabilization
• Rubber granule: ideal for intensive use, without neglecting performance and safety
• Geofill or Probiofill: infill of natural origin, eco-friendly, ideal for those who want an even more sustainable solution that approaches natural grass fields.

After completion of laying, it is recommended that the field be used intensively for about 40 days to promote settlement of the infill and ensure maximum surface stability. This period is critical to achieve the optimal performance parameters set by the project.

It is prohibited to use the field for purposes other than sports (e.g., concerts, fairs, events, markets) and to perform actions that could damage the turf:

• Using unsuitable spiked shoes or metal cleats
• Smoking, throwing cigarettes or lighting open flames
• Throwing firecrackers, flammable products, acids or aggressive chemicals
• Spilling paint, chalk or unsuitable products on the playing lines
• Obstructing drainage channels
• Passing vehicles or heavy vehicles without proper precautions (max 3,500 kg/sqm, use wooden boards to distribute the load)
• Athletics disciplines such as: shot put, discus throw, hammer throw, javelin

Routine maintenance, to be carried out on a weekly basis (in the absence of rain or snow) by local field maintenance personnel, is essential to preserve the performance characteristics and durability of the field. It includes:

• Removal of dirt, leaves and foreign materials from the surface
• Even sweeping with appropriate equipment, both longitudinally and transversely
• Checking and cleaning of drainage system inspection channels and manholes, especially after heavy rains

Checking and replenishing clogging material in the most stressed areas (e.g., penalty pucks, goal areas, midfield)
These activities are manageable by the facility owner or operator, following the technical guidance provided by Italgreen.

Recommended equipment for routine maintenance

To facilitate routine maintenance of the synthetic turf pavement, Italgreen recommends the following equipment:

• Brush with a painted iron frame: equipped with brushes with rigid plastic bristles mounted on a sturdy metal frame with an irregular plan, it is ideal for cleaning the playing surface, maintaining the verticality of the free line of synthetic turf and the homogeneity of the performance infill.
• Lawntractor (e.g., John Deere X107 or similar): equipped with hydrostatic transmission, 500 cc single-cylinder engine, and hitch for metal harrow and rubberized net. (Note: cutting deck and collection basket are excluded).
• Trailed harrow: consisting of galvanized steel frame, wheels for ease of operation, metal needles for disking slightly compacted infill, and plastic brushes to equalize the level of performance infill. To be used after instruction from specialized technicians, observing the recommended frequency of use.

Extraordinary maintenance is performed by specialized Italgreen technicians or authorized installers and includes:

• Checking the flatness and stability of the mantle
• Repair of any unglued joints or marking lines
• Decompaction of the infill and possible refilling of material in the prescribed quantities
• Deep cleaning and inspection of drainage systems
  Recommended frequency is:
• Semiannually for approved fields (LND, FIFA, etc.).
• Annually for other types of fields

The snow should be removed with a tractor equipped with a blade and protective rubber band, avoiding abrupt maneuvers and keeping the blade about 4 cm above the ground so as not to damage the turf. After removal, an antifreeze treatment with fine-grained salt (free of additives) may be useful, especially for clogged coats with Geofill, following the doses and methods indicated by Italgreen.

Most stains can be removed with mild soap and water, using plastic bristle brushes. If gasoline or diesel fuel leaks, immediate action should be taken: dry the area, remove the contaminated clog and replace it with new material.

Game lines can be woven directly into the turf or inserted through bands of colored synthetic grass, glued and sealed as per sports regulations. Temporary striping with water tempera is also possible, avoiding the use of chalk or unsuitable paints.

Safety is ensured by compliance with applicable regulations, quality materials and proper maintenance. Adherence to Italgreen's specified procedures and periodic maintenance ensure consistent playing characteristics, reduced risk of injury, and validity of the warranty.

The average lifespan of an artificial turf field varies from 6 to 12 years, depending on the type of sport, intensity of use, and quality of routine and extraordinary maintenance. Regular maintenance can extend the useful life of the field.

To receive assistance, schedule specialized maintenance or get a tailored quote, you can contact Italgreen via the form on the website, email (info@italgreen.it) or phone (+39 035 784178). Our technicians are available for dedicated consultations and no-obligation inspections.