How much does a 3G pitch cost?
This is one of our frequently asked questions, and one which doesn’t have an immediate or straightforward answer.
Each of our projects is unique, meaning there can be no ‘one size fits all’ cost.
There are several factors to consider which will influence the overall 3G pitch cost. If you are resurfacing an existing pitch, the costs will be considerably lower than a new 3G artificial grass pitch installation.
If you are installing a new rugby or football pitch, consider the amount of work and time required to ensure that it has the perfect sub-base. It is a false economy to invest in a new sports pitch carpet if the underlying groundworks will not support the artificial turf surface.
Site Set Up
To start off the project, McArdle will set up a site office, erect Heras fencing, then bring in the heavy machinery to start clearing the site and removing the top soil or the existing carpet. Machinery will then cut, fill, and level the gradient area for the pitch.
Groundworks
Sufficient drainage will need to be installed under the base layer. The amount of drainage will depend on the outcome of the ‘Infiltration rate’, resulting from the Ground Investigation Report carried out on-site to ensure that the pitch will not become waterlogged.
Once the drainage has been installed, a kerb line is set out on the perimeter of the pitch to create a neat boundary edge. We then lay a permeable Geotextile layer, underneath a stone sub-base. On average, a typical full sized 3G sports pitch will receive 6000 tonnes of stone.
Engineered Base
We then lay a 40mm Macadam layer, otherwise known as an engineered base.
You may hear of or be quoted for a cheaper option called a ‘dynamic base’, which is simply made of compressed stone and will not be bound with any other substances; the Macadam layer is omitted from this process. In the past, dynamic bases have been found to be unstable and liable to shift, resulting in lumps and creases in the pitch.
McArdle Sport Tec will only offer engineered bases; although this increases the 3G pitch cost, we pride ourselves on supplying only the highest quality pitches. Installing an engineered base will assure stability and longevity, prolonging the playing hours invested in your artificial sports pitch.
Shock Pad
A shock pad may be required; this will sit on top of the Macadam layer. Rugby, hockey, and sometimes football pitches or MUGAs (multi use games areas) will need a shock pad installed on top of the engineered base construction to comply with RFU, World Rugby Regulation 22, FIH Regulations or FIFA Quality, FIFA Pro pitch requirements. The benefit of installing a shock pad is that it increases impact absorption from the players, which in turn reduces the likelihood of injuries. A shock pad can also help protect the pitch as well as the player, adding to its longevity.
Artificial Carpet
It is vital to consider and research the different types of artificial turf carpets which are available on the market and choose a turf which is appropriate for the requirements of the sports pitch. A cost factor to consider is whether the artificial sports pitch turf you choose will need to meet a certain playing standard, for example FIFA Quality, FIFA Pro, FIH, or Rugby WR Reg 22.
Your choice of artificial turf may also be determined by a specification requirement, such as a specific pile height or weight, which provides a certain carpet quality. The selected artificial turf carpet will have a certain warranty or guarantee period; a better-quality product will have a longer warranty period.
Once the artificial turf has been laid, sand is used to weigh down and stabilise the surface. The introduction of a rubber granule infill is what makes an artificial sports pitch into a 3G pitch, as the rubber improves the playing performance.
Fencing and Lighting
Most sports pitch resurfacing projects or new pitch installations require new fencing or lighting. These extras can add to the costings, especially if a higher specification or longer warranty period is required.
McArdle Sport Tec would be more than happy to supply you with an estimate for your new pitch or resurfacing project free of charge, or if you would like any further information, please email enquire@mcardlesport.co.uk or call us on 01491 827 810.
