Cleaning Moss from Artificial Sports Surfaces

Artificial grass is just that; a synthetic turf, or surface, made to look like natural grass. Today it is widely used as residential lawns, for commercial applications such as landscaping around housing developments and for common areas in and around shopping areas. All of these is very different from its original application as a sports surface. There are many reasons for its popularity; it doesn't really require any watering, it is very low maintenance, doesn't become muddy and artificial turf will endure some very heavy use. However, the material does have a downside; it has a lifespan and, in some areas, it can become coated in moss.

The method for removal of this moss and the prevention of fresh growth is straightforward and there are a number of ways to undertake the task, but the basic steps are as follows:

Preparation

The first thing that you should do, before you apply any of our cleaning products, is remove as much of the moss growth as possible. You have probably been doing this anyway and you will possibly have your preferred method, but we recommend using a good quality brush or a leaf rake. If going down the rake route then we do recommend a plastic rake as a metal rake could, potentially, cause damage to the surface as they are generally heavier, than a plastic rake, so can sink further into the surface. This could give a better result however one would have to use more caution when using a metal rake. We have a range of brushes and brooms, including our Wire Broom that will really help with clearing the area. The more growth that can be removed prior to treatment then the less cleaning product that will be required.

Treatment

Once the surface has been brushed or raked, and as much of the dead leaves and other debris as possible have been removed, then it is time to apply the cleaner. We recommend the application of Baticlean CR which is a pH neutral surface cleaner that should be sprayed on to a dry surface during dry weather and it does not require rinsing. Baticlean CR will help you clean the dirt and debris from within the grass as well as the surface of the area.

Future Care

We recommend that the surface is kept clear of leaves and that the surface is free from shade, when and where possible. Also, the surface should be brushed on a regular basis, especially in areas where shade or water retention is apparent. This brushing will allow you to remove not only leaves but also loose moss and other things that can cause the surface to retain moisture. To keep the surface clean then a further application of Baticlean CR will be required. We normally recommend an application every year, during warm weather, and this will help you to keep the surface clean.