the graded formation. A benefit of the grit layer is that,
if required, the drainage properties of the profile can be quickly improved with verti- draining. The verti-drain will not only help to relieve any compaction present but will also form direct drainage channels through the pitch profile into the grit drainage layer. Fertiliser can be brushed into the holes to get the nutrients deep into the profile, and then, if required, the holes can be in-filled with an approved medium fine top-dressing sand which will act as a preferential drainage pathway into the grit. Following the installation of the grit drainage layer a 100mm depth of approved medium fine sand was installed to act as a basal growing medium with good drainage properties. The analysis of the existing topsoil showed a sandy silt loam, containing over 50% silt plus clay. The possibility of utilising the topsoil in the construction was carefully considered, but the practicalities and the volume of sand required to dilute the fines to a satisfactory level meant that it was decided to import a pre-blended sand/soil mix. The job was given to Tarmac Topsport which produced a blend of Kingsley No1 sand with British Sugar Soil with the resulting uniform mix having a maximum
fines content of approximately 15% and a very low stone content. The benefit of having a
relatively high level of fines is that it assists with nutrient and moisture retention. The fines also help to improve surface stability and negate the need for artificial reinforcement which, under certain circumstance, may lead to harder surfaces if poorly maintained. We have also found that soil with higher levels of fines tend to be less prone to the Black Layer condition than sandier rootzones. This is because the fines act as redox buffers which help to prevent the biological reduction of sulphate to phyto- toxic sulfides.
A possible negative of having higher fines content is the potential for restricted surface drainage when the soil becomes compacted. At the Hensol castle site, to overcome this potential restriction, forced slit drains were installed at 750mm centres along the line of play. These secondary drains are 50mm wide and installed through the soil profile to a depth of 300mm into the grit drainage layer. During installation the slit drains were in-filled with a uniform 2.0mm grit which has a high drainage capacity and flows easily through the installation equipment, even when wet. A small degree of heave is created
August 2007 -F
Final preparation of the finished product
September 2007 -C
taking a well earned rest from in training
Cardiff City Football Club
Service or Supply Meeting the needs of the Synthetic Sports Industry
As the largest specialist maintenance company in the UK, Technical Surfaces can offer a full range of services to ensure that you and your users get the most from your surface.
Having teamed up with SMG, a German manufacturer of specialist track and field machinery, with over 30 years experience, you can be sure of expert advice and service.
Whether you want to
complement your own in-house maintenance programme with more specialist processes, or are looking to purchase machinery, Technical Surfaces can help.
Tel: 08 702 400 700
www.technicalsurfaces.co.uk
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