The Best Time of Year to Replace a Synthetic Turf Field

When it comes to synthetic turf replacement, timing is everything. Scheduling a replacement project is entirely dependent on the kinds of sports teams you have, the local weather conditions, lead times for materials, and, most importantly, when those sports teams are in-season.

In order to minimize field downtime, synthetic turf replacement should happen in the offseason. 

Waiting to check turf conditions until a few weeks before the opening game will leave you scrambling for quick fixes. Plan ahead to prepare your fields the right way. 

We’ll break down the best time to replace your turf based on the sports you have so you can be up and running when the next season rolls around.

Strategize in Late Summer and Early Fall

Winter is the most common season for synthetic turf replacement as it usually provides the maximum playing downtime.

It’s important to keep in mind that winter turf replacement can be impacted by cold temperatures and unpredictable weather conditions. Despite this, it’s still a helpful time for most facilities to schedule their upkeep.

Each sports season is slightly different. This leaves athletic directors with the important job of scheduling proper turf replacement windows for both singular and multipurpose fields. 

At the end of summer, as the fall approaches, start evaluating your fields and think about scheduling turf replacements. You’ll want to avoid replacement operations clashing with practices and games. 

Football and Soccer

Seasons to Avoid: Fall and Spring

Schedule Turf Replacement: Winter or Summer

Football and soccer fields experience heavy fall and spring usage. For football, mid-winter through late spring is an ideal window for construction. For soccer, early summer or deep winter seasons allow construction crews to complete installation before fall games and spring tournaments.

Baseball and Softball

Seasons to Avoid: Spring, Summer, and Early Fall

Schedule Turf Replacement: Late Fall through Early Winter

Baseball and softball seasons kick off early in the spring. Depending on your region and pre-season practice schedules, turf replacements should be completed by January or February.

Track & Field

Seasons to Avoid: Spring

Schedule Turf Replacement: Summer, Fall, or Winter

Track and field programs typically monopolize facilities throughout the spring. Any other season is usually suitable for turf replacement within the track oval, provided that the weather conditions allow for installation.

Field Hockey

Seasons to Avoid: Fall and Spring

Schedule Turf Replacement: Winter or Summer

Fall is the primary season for field hockey. Conducting turf replacement during the winter or over the summer ensures the surface is fully prepared and installed before fall training begins.

Lacrosse

Seasons to Avoid: Spring

Schedule Turf Replacement: November through February

Spring is peak lacrosse season. Scheduling your turf replacement from November through February keeps your field out of commission during the fall offseason and ensures it’s ready for early spring practice. 

Plan Ahead with Motz

Synthetic turf replacement takes careful planning, so don’t wait for an unexpected complication or emergency repair to pop up. Evaluate your fields each fall to maximize scheduling flexibility and stay on top of upkeep. 

If your fields are multipurpose and occupied during more than one season, our team at Motz will work with you to schedule a time that is as least impactful as possible.

Contact our team at Motz for your next turf evaluation and get on our schedule!

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