Most synthetic turf putting greens are large enough that during construction we had to seam pieces of turf together.

The main problem that occurs over time with seams on synthetic turf projects is the washing of the infill during heavy rains.  The sand and rubber infill on slopes can be disturbed during downpours.  This disturbance can cause the areas where two pieces of turf meet to be visible. 

We normally see this on artificial putting greens and synthetic golf greens that utilize sand infill technology.  Golf greens require slopes and undulations so the surfaces are interesting and challenging.  If these areas have a joining of turf, the area may become visible over time.

The solution to restoring the surface to its original condition is two fold.  The infill material has washed away and the fibers along the seam have been severely crimped over.  Follow these steps to restore the seams:

   1. Brush the fibers in all directions so they are no longer crimped over.
   2. Add white round infill material to replace the washed out sand.  This can be done with a drop spreader or by hand with a cup.
   3. Brush the round infill material so the fibers are full once again.
   4. Roll the area so that it is similar in speed to the rest of the green.
   5. When necessary drop some black and green top dressing sand over the white infill so the green has the look of a natural grass putting green.

Follow these steps whenever the seam of an artificial putting green starts to show.  This will restore the green back to its original condition and allow for many more days of great fun and practice.

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