Synthetic Turf Fields: Is it right for your School? When and How to Convert a Natural Grass Field to Synthetic Turf
- Andrew Altieri, P.E.
- Jan 27
- 4 min read
The decision to convert a natural turf football field to a synthetic turf field is a significant one, with long-term implications for cost, maintenance, performance, and usage. This guide outlines the conversion process, factors to consider, and indicators that it may be time to make the switch.
Benefits of Synthetic Turf Over Natural Turf
Durability: Withstands high-traffic use and year-round play with virtually no down time.
Lower Maintenance: Requires less watering, mowing, and fertilizing where labor time and cost is critical.
Consistent Playability: Maintains optimal playing conditions regardless of weather.
Multi-Sport Use: Supports various sports and activities without damage, especially on the same field and season.
Water Conservation: Eliminates the need for irrigation, reducing water usage significantly.
Natural Turf Benefits: Most natural and highest quality fields of play where budget and labor costs aren't a factor should consider keeping and maintaining their Grass Fields.
When to Consider Converting to Synthetic Turf
Signs Your Natural Turf Field May Need Replacement:
High Usage: Fields used for multiple sports, practices, and community events often struggle to recover between uses.
Excessive Maintenance Costs: If annual maintenance (mowing, irrigation, reseeding) becomes prohibitively expensive, synthetic turf may offer cost savings.
Drainage Issues: Persistent problems with standing water or poor drainage can make fields unplayable after rain.
Inconsistent Surface Quality: Uneven surfaces, bare patches, or overcompacted areas pose safety risks to athletes.
Budget Constraints: If long-term operational budgets are stretched thin, synthetic turf offers predictable annual costs after installation.
Ideal Situations for Conversion:
Schools hosting multiple sports or activities on the same field.
Communities with limited water resources or drought conditions.
Facilities looking to extend usage into the offseason or for non-athletic events.
The Synthetic Turf Conversion Process
Converting a natural turf field to synthetic involves multiple phases. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
1. Site Evaluation and Planning
Field Assessment: Analyze existing field conditions, including drainage, soil composition, and infrastructure.
Usage Analysis: Determine field usage patterns to select the appropriate synthetic turf system.
Permitting and Regulations: Secure necessary permits and comply with local building codes and environmental regulations.
2. Design and Engineering
Field Design: Plan the field layout, including markings for multiple sports, and select features like shock pads or infill type.
Drainage System: Engineer a robust drainage solution to handle runoff effectively.
Material Selection: Choose turf fiber, backing, and infill materials based on climate, intended use, and budget.
3. Site Preparation
Excavation: Remove the existing natural turf, soil, and any inadequate drainage materials.
Base Construction: Install a stable base layer (compacted stone or gravel) to provide structural support.
Drainage Installation: Add perforated drainage pipes and subbase grading to ensure proper water management.
4. Turf Installation
Turf Laying: Roll out and secure synthetic turf panels, ensuring proper alignment.
Seaming and Anchoring: Use adhesive or mechanical fasteners to join panels and secure edges.
Infill Application: Spread and evenly distribute infill material (crumb rubber, sand, or organic options) to provide cushioning and stability.
Grooming: Brush and groom the turf to ensure an even surface and upright fibers.
5. Final Inspection and Testing
Safety Testing: Conduct Gmax testing to confirm impact absorption and player safety.
Drainage Assessment: Verify the system can handle heavy rain without pooling.
Quality Assurance: Inspect seams, infill levels, and markings for any inconsistencies.
Costs Involved in the Conversion
Initial Installation: A typical synthetic turf field installation ranges from $800,000 to $1.5 million, depending on field size, design complexity, and materials used.
Maintenance Costs: Annual costs for grooming, infill replenishment, and cleaning range from $5,000 to $10,000, significantly lower than natural turf.
Lifecycle Costs: Synthetic turf fields typically last 8–12 years before requiring replacement, making long-term costs more predictable.
Maintenance and Operational Considerations
While synthetic turf requires less maintenance than natural grass, regular upkeep is still essential:
Brushing and Grooming: Keeps fibers upright and infill evenly distributed.
Sanitization: Eliminates bacteria and odors, especially in high-traffic areas.
Infill Replenishment: Ensures proper cushioning and traction over time.
Periodic Repairs: Address minor issues like seam separation or high-wear areas promptly.
Environmental and Sustainability Considerations
Water Savings: Eliminates irrigation, conserving thousands of gallons annually.
Recycling Options: Modern synthetic turf systems often incorporate recycled materials for infill and backing.
Heat Management: Consider advanced cooling technologies or organic infills to mitigate heat retention in warmer climates.
Potential Challenges of Synthetic Turf
Upfront Costs: Higher initial investment compared to natural turf installation.
Heat Retention: Synthetic turf can become significantly hotter than natural grass under direct sunlight.
Replacement Timeline: After 8–12 years, the field will need resurfacing, which incurs additional costs.
Environmental Impact: Disposal of older synthetic turf materials requires proper planning to minimize landfill contributions.
Making the Decision
Converting to synthetic turf is a long-term investment that can enhance field usability, reduce maintenance demands, and provide a consistent playing surface. However, it’s essential to weigh the initial costs, expected lifespan, and specific needs of your athletic program before making the switch.
Need guidance on converting your natural grass field to synthetic turf? AE Sports specializes in evaluating and designing custom synthetic turf systems for high schools across Texas. Contact us today to start planning your facility upgrade.
