Mistake 1: Skipping the Relaxation Process
Trying to save several hours during installation may increase the risk of having to correct wrinkles or seam alignment later.
For large sports fields, correcting an improperly installed seam can be considerably more complicated than allowing sufficient relaxation time beforehand.
Mistake 2: Treating Direct Sunlight as a Fast Relaxation Method
Heat can accelerate material relaxation, but excessive solar exposure can also raise turf surface temperatures significantly.
A better strategy is controlled exposure under appropriate site conditions rather than deliberately overheating the turf.
Mistake 3: Stretching the Turf Too Aggressively
Artificial turf should be installed flat and correctly tensioned, but excessive mechanical stretching is not necessarily beneficial.
The objective should be controlled alignment and tension management, not maximum stretching force.
Mistake 4: Ignoring the Seam System
Pre-laying does not eliminate the need for professional seam construction.
Seam quality depends on factors such as:
- Seam tape selection
- Adhesive compatibility
- Adhesive application
- Open time
- Pressure
- Curing conditions
- Fiber alignment
The adhesive manufacturer’s technical data sheet and the turf manufacturer’s installation manual should be followed.
Mistake 5: Assuming Pre-Laying Can Fix Every Wrinkle
If substantial wrinkles remain after adequate relaxation, installers should investigate the underlying cause.
Potential causes may include:
- Uneven sub-base;
- Excessive installation tension;
- Incorrect seam alignment;
- Backing deformation;
- Temperature-related dimensional movement;
- Improper storage;
- Product-specific dimensional stability issues.
Simply adding more relaxation time may not resolve a structural installation problem.
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