Artificial turf field installation companies: selection considerations
Installing artificial turf at your sports field can be a great way to improve your facility’s look, feel, and playability. But with so many companies out there vying for your business, how do you choose the right one?
Many companies install artificial turf sports fields, but not all of them are created equal. Choosing the right company is essential to getting a high-quality installation that will last for years.
By asking the right questions and collecting the correct information, you can be sure to choose a company that will meet your needs and exceeds your expectations.
We’ve put together a few essential selection considerations for choosing an artificial turf sports field installation company.
Our artificial turf field cost calculator makes the process of calculating the installation or resurfacing costs and comparing quotes from turf field companies very quick and easy. You only have to input your turf field project specs and you will receive a cost estimate in a matter of minutes.
Buying directly from a manufacturer vs. a turf field installation company
One of the most important decisions you’ll make is buying your turf directly from a manufacturer or purchasing it through an installation company.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both options.
Buying directly from a manufacturer usually means getting a lower price per square foot. However, it also means that you’ll be responsible for coordinating the installation yourself.
You and your team will need to find the suitable materials, equipment, and human resources to get the job done. This can be a daunting task if you don’t have experience installing artificial turf for sports fields.
Purchasing turf through an installation company means that you’ll likely pay a higher price per square foot. But it also means that the company will handle everything from start to finish, taking all the stress and hassle out of the installation process.
Working with an installation company is probably your best option if you don’t have the time or energy to coordinate the installation yourself.
Types of Manufacturers
Suppose you decide a manufacturer is your best option. In that case, you’ll need to choose which type of manufacturer you want to work with on your project.
There are two primary options: domestic manufacturers and overseas manufacturers.
Domestic manufacturers are companies that make turf in the United States. They’re usually a good option if you’re looking for the highest-quality turf. However, turf produced stateside can often be more expensive than foreign products.
Overseas manufacturers are companies that make turf in other countries, such as China or India. Overseas manufacturers are often a good option if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly solution.
However, it’s essential to do your research to ensure you’re working with a reputable company.
Working with an overseas manufacturer can also open you up to bottlenecks in the supply chain. A delayed shipment at the port can mean major headaches for you and your project management team.
Understanding the Supply Chain
Whether you choose a domestic or foreign manufacturer, understanding what supply chain links they handle is crucial to your project.
Some manufacturers only handle the actual production of artificial turf. Meaning, that once it rolls off the production line, you’ll need to schedule and plan for the transportation, storage, and installation of the turf on your own.
Other manufacturers offer a full-service solution, handling everything from turf production to final installation. This can be a great option if you don’t have the time or resources to coordinate the project yourself.
However, you’ll be locked into working with their preferred partners.
In a word: choosing a manufacturer will give you less control over your project.
Full-Service Turf Field Installation Companies
If you decide that working with a installation company is the best option for your project, you’ll need to choose a full-service artificial turf field installation company.
A full-service installation company will handle every aspect of your project from start to finish. This includes turf production or sourcing, transportation, storage, and installation. Typically these companies also handle all after-sales services. For example they will be able to help you maintain the turf field in the right way to protect your new valuable asset and to squeeze out the maximum number of years out of it.
Working with a full-service company is often the best option for schools, communities, and athletic clubs. It’s also a good option if you don’t have the time or resources to coordinate the project yourself.
Full-service gives you the most control over your project without doing the work yourself.
The installation company will have a team of experts to handle every aspect of the project. This includes project managers, turf specialists, and installers. But you’ll have a single point of contact to ask questions, voice concerns, and provide input. You may pay a premium for this type of service, but you’ll save time, money, and effort in the long run.
Does the company have a synthetic turf field certification from ASBA?
No matter which route you choose – manufacturer or installation company – it’s vital to the success of your project to learn their qualifications.
One of the most critical qualifications is whether or not they have a turf field certification from the American Sports Builders Association (ASBA). The ASBA is the leading trade association for builders, designers, and suppliers of sports facilities.
To earn the certification, a company must have at least one employee who has completed the ASBA’s Synthetic Turf Field Builder course. The course covers every aspect of designing and building a synthetic turf field.
While an ASBA certification is important, it’s not the only qualification to consider. You’ll also want to ensure that your chosen company has experience installing artificial turf fields.
Other questions to ask:
- How long has the company been in business?
- Do they have a portfolio of successful projects?
- Can they provide references?
- What type of warranty do they offer on their products and services?
- What is their customer service like?
- What happens if there are problems with the project?
- How will they be resolved?
The Bottom Line
Installing an artificial turf sports field is a big undertaking. But working with the right manufacturer or installation company will make the process much easier.
When choosing a company, look for one with experience, a good reputation, and a certification from the ASBA.
Additionally, make sure you understand their qualifications and what type of services they offer. This will ensure you have a successful project from start to finish.
Need help choosing the right manufacturer and installation company?
You can also get a customized cost estimate for your turf field project by using our artificial turf field cost calculator.