The heat is on! As summer temperatures rise, turf managers and facility operators face unique challenges in keeping artificial turf fields safe, playable, and looking their best. Whether you're maintaining a sports field, recreational area, or multi-use complex, keeping your turf game-ready takes a proactive approach. From managing compaction to redistributing infill, summer turf care requires careful attention. In this guide, we’ll break down what it takes to maintain artificial turf through the hottest months of the year and why it’s important. With expert tips and seasonal advice, you’ll learn how to protect your turf while ensuring the performance, safety, and durability that players and users depend on.
Summer introduces a unique set of challenges for artificial turf systems. The most significant of these is heat. Unlike natural grass, which can self-regulate through evaporation and shade, artificial turf absorbs and retains heat—often becoming much hotter than the surrounding air temperature. On a sunny day, turf surfaces can easily exceed 60–70°C (140–160°F). This intense heat can lead to:
Additionally, the dry, dusty conditions common in summer months can accelerate wear and increase the presence of bacteria if the field isn’t cleaned regularly.
One factor that often goes unnoticed in summer turf care is the long-term effect of UV radiation. Artificial turf fibres are engineered for durability, but constant exposure to intense sunlight can eventually cause fading, brittleness, and weakened structural integrity. These changes not only affect appearance but can also compromise performance—especially in high-traffic areas.
Summer often brings tournaments, day camps, and near constant play, placing extra strain on specific areas of the field–like goalmouths, player entrances, and midfield zones. Targeted sports turf maintenance is essential during this time to address uneven wear, prevent damage, and keep the entire playing surface safe and game-ready.
Grooming is the foundation of good turf maintenance. During the summer months, it becomes even more important. Grooming involves brushing and raking the surface to redistribute infill evenly, fluff up matted fibres, and remove debris. This process helps your artificial turf look better and perform more like natural grass. Regular grooming also prevents infill from compacting—a common problem in dry, hot weather. When infill becomes too dense, the field can lose its shock absorption and drainage capabilities.
Tip: Groom artificial turf for sports fields, schools, and other recreational spaces every 4–6 weeks during the summer. Fields with heavy use may require attention every 2–3 weeks to ensure optimal performance and appearance.
A frequently overlooked aspect of summer artificial turf maintenance is how heat amplifies odours. For community fields and recreational spaces, strong smells can negatively affect public perception and user experience—even if the field is technically in playable condition.
There’s no getting around it—artificial turf gets hot in the summer. This not only affects playability but can also lead to player discomfort or injury. While turf systems are designed to handle heat, mitigating surface temperatures should be a top priority during the summer months.
Increased field usage during the summer months makes routine sanitization a key part of artificial turf maintenance. Sweat, sunscreen, physical contact, and general debris can leave behind residues that regular brushing cannot fully remove. Elevated temperatures can also intensify odours and raise hygiene concerns—especially on high-traffic fields. Common contaminants like spilled beverages, mud, gum, and pet waste (particularly on public or community fields) can build up quickly. To maintain a healthy, odour-free, and safe playing surface, consistent cleaning practices are essential.
Be sure to choose artificial turf-safe cleaning products that won’t degrade the fibres or harm the environment.
Summer is an ideal time to perform a detailed inspection of your artificial turf surface. Check for common issues like:
Catching these problems early can help prevent larger—and more expensive—repairs down the line. It’s also a good opportunity to evaluate your field’s drainage performance to ensure water is dispersing efficiently during rainstorms. These symptoms may indicate underlying concerns such as infill compaction, improper drainage, or turf panel movement. If you’re unsure about the root cause, a professional inspection can provide clarity. At Clean Turf Canada, we offer comprehensive inspections and repairs. Whether it’s resealing seams, replenishing infill, or restoring worn high-traffic zones, proactive maintenance keeps your artificial turf performing at its best. Visit our Maintenance page to learn more.
For many facilities, budgeting can be a challenge to implementing full-scale summer turf maintenance. However, approaching turf care as a preventative investment rather than a reactive expense can lead to significant long-term savings. Regular sports turf maintenance helps reduce the likelihood of costly repairs or premature turf replacement by addressing minor issues before they escalate.
Q: How often should artificial turf be cleaned during the summer?
A: At minimum, artificial turf should be brushed and cleaned once a month during peak season. High-use fields may require weekly attention, especially for sanitation.
Q: Does water cooling damage the turf?
A: No. Periodic misting or watering can help reduce surface temperatures without harming the turf system. Just ensure the field drains properly afterward.
Q: What are signs my artificial turf needs decompaction?
A: A hard, unyielding surface, increased player fatigue or discomfort, or visible pooling after rain are strong indicators that the infill is too compacted.
Modern turf systems are designed to be environmentally responsible, but summer maintenance plays a key role in maximizing their sustainability.
By taking a proactive approach to artificial turf maintenance, you’re not just protecting your investment—you’re also contributing to a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable environment for players and the surrounding community.
Clean Turf Canada is a leader in maintaining artificial turf for sports pitches, schools and other recreational spaces, offering expert care and proactive solutions tailored to the unique demands of artificial turf. Our comprehensive summer services include brushing, sanitation, decompaction, repairs, and mid-season inspections—delivered with flexible scheduling and deep field expertise. Beyond routine maintenance, we offer detailed insights, reporting, and recommendations to support your operational planning, budgeting, and long-term turf management strategy. Our goal is not only to maintain your field, but to help extend its performance and durability well into the future.
Summer puts artificial turf systems to the test. With increased use and high temperatures, staying on top of turf maintenance is key to keeping your field safe, durable, and looking its best. Regular grooming, sanitation, and timely repairs go a long way in protecting your investment and ensuring consistent performance. At Clean Turf Canada, we offer seasonal maintenance services tailored to your facility’s needs—including infill redistribution, decompaction, deep cleaning, and repairs. Our experienced team is here to help your field stay in top shape through the busiest months. Reach out today to find out how we can support your summer maintenance plan.