The Importance of Power Brooms

Maintaining your Artificial Grass

The evolution of synthetic turf has evolved tremendously over the decades. Fiber structure and design have created turf that is denser than ever before. With these changes creates challenges for the installer to have the very best of tools and machinery to “brush up” the synthetic turf fibers. I call this “Defibrillation” or as some may call it “Power Brooming”.
This month’s column I will teach what power brooms are, why defibrillation is important for the appearance of your project, and how “Defibrillation” will assist in the turf fibers longevity.

“A Power Broom is far more superior than using a leaf rake or push broom” ….Ask JW

Power Broom

A motorized broom to brush up synthetic turf fibers.

Defibrillation

To brush synthetic turf in the opposite direction. A majority of manufactures fibers that are tufted lean to one direction when manufactured, some may call this “Turf Lean”. Defibrillation can be done manually with a rake and/or push broom or mechanically with a motorized broom. Defibrillation will cause the turf fibers to stand in a vertical position and pull internal “thatch” upwards which will allow the synthetic turf to have an even plush appearance.

Defibrillation for Better Appearance

When synthetic turf fibers are not brushed vertically and leaning to one side, it creates a shiny appearance. This is due to the reflection of light. Defibrillation will diminish the shiny look by placing the fibers vertically to avoid the glare that is from light. When done properly it will give the synthetic turf a darker plush appearance.

Defibrillation for Maintenance

Synthetic turf can get really dirty. A power broom can remove debris, leaves and pieces of trash. Power Brooms are great for maintaining Pet runs, dog parks and playgrounds. These surfaces need weekly maintenance to clean feces, blood, urine and vomit. I recommend using a power broom along with SGW Turf Fresh to clean the synthetic turf fibers.

Longevity

Defibrillation will assist in the maintenance and longevity of the synthetic turf fibers but may also void the warranty of the synthetic turf due to over defibrillation. Over Defibrillation or excessive power brooming can diminish the life of the fibers and may cause memory loss and premature matting. This is especially important for “Slit Film” fibers. Excessive defibrillation on “Slit Film” fibers will cause the fibers to split into thinner fibers and cause premature matting.

Defibrillation of Putting Green fibers

When synthetic turf fibers are not brushed vertically and leaning to one side, it creates a shiny appearance. This is due to the reflection of light. Defibrillation will diminish the shiny look by placing the fibers vertically to avoid the glare that is from light. When done properly it will give the synthetic turf a darker plush appearance.

When using SGW True Putt product, a power broom is a must! SGW True Putt is a professional system for avid golfers. It requires placement of 6-8 pounds of infill. Once the fibers are completely filled, the power broom bristles are used to “cut” the sand level. This process I call “Cutting” does not mean using a knife or scissors. “Cutting” with a power broom of the completely filled surface splits the fibers of the True Putt and removes ¼” of sand to create a smooth surface for the ball to roll on. This process should consist of power brooming north and south then east to west and at all angles. When “Cutting” of the putting green surface is complete a water roller or smooth drum roller is needed to bend the remaining ¼” fibers flat. This will complete the True Putt System.

Choosing your Power Broom

I recommend purchasing or renting power brooms if you are wanting to be a successful synthetic turf contractor. There are multiple manufacturers of power brooms. Most power brooms are motorized and look like a “weed eater” with a brush head at the end. Shindaiwa and Stihl are my favorites.

I recommend purchasing or renting power brooms if you are wanting to be a successful synthetic turf contractor. There are multiple manufacturers of power brooms. Most power brooms are motorized and look like a “weed eater” with a brush head at the end. Shindaiwa and Stihl are my favorites.

Shindaiwa and Stihl power brooms can be flipped upside down to change the rotation and aggressiveness that is needed for defibrillation. When used in regular position it is very aggressive, when flipped over it is easy on the operator for final grooming.

Power brooms can get hot after long use. Do not lay the power broom on the synthetic turf at any time. The heat from the engine can melt the turf fibers. When adding fuel to the power broom do not add the fuel over the synthetic turf.

Power broom storage

Power brooms are very tough but fragile at the same time. Keep power brooms maintained and stored in a secure place and not in the back of the truck where other equipment can be damage it.

For more information regarding Power Brooms contact J.W. askjw@sgwcorp.com or call 888.846.3598