7 Tips for Painting Your Synthetic Turf Field

A benefit of purchasing a synthetic turf field is the ability to install inlaid lines and eliminate painting or striping before each game. However, some facilities still have a need to include temporary lines or logos on their surface. If your synthetic turf field has such a need, we have some suggestions and tips for how to approach the application of paint on your surface.

7 Tips for Painting Your Synthetic Turf Field

1. Test the application procedure before going on the field (use a scrap of turf fastened to asphalt, plywood, or use a corner of the field.)
2. Use no more paint than absolutely necessary
3. Keep water on hand and readily available to rinse any spills or mistakes before they dry
4. When applying paint, use large templates and cardboard or wood windshields to minimize paint over-spray
5. The paint should be applied lightly to the tips of the turf fibers–not the entire length of every fiber (applying the paint too heavily makes for a very rough, abrasive surface and will make the removal job very difficult) 
6. An airless system is recommended as it provides a superior look while using less paint 
7. We recommend applying a single coat when possible

Removing any previous paint is key in maintaining the aesthetics and performance of your field. Paint build-up over time can cause damage to your fibers, clumped infill, and lead to high gmax numbers in that area. Our partners at Pioneer Athletics have the following recommendation for removing paint properly:

“We recommend first using a dry brush (ie a drag broom on gator or Blitz walk behind scrubber) to break up and stand up the fibers. Second, apply a remover solution. The solution should be kept down long enough to activate the paint (about 30 sec which can vary depending on the paint and environment.) A scrub brush is then used to break up the paint and water is used to rinse it through the infill. One way to speed up the process and prevent paint from building up in your system, is to use a Prex extractor which removes paint like a large carpet cleaner. Warm water works best although most facilities won’t have that luxury.

Removing paint after a rain or presoaking the painted areas can help, although it isn’t always necessary. If you do have an absorbent field, pre-soaking the area to be removed should help minimize residual paint while removing.”

If you have questions about best practices for striping or painting a synthetic field, call us today or complete the form below to speak with a Motz365 Turf Care Expert!