FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What’s the difference between sand-dressed and sand-filled pitches?
Sand-dressed pitches typically have a shorter synthetic pile height and less sand infill, providing a faster, smoother playing surface, ideal for hockey. Sand-filled pitches contain more sand infill and a longer carpet pile height, offering durability for multi-sport and recreational use.
Do you need planning permission for a new artificial sports pitch, athletics track or MUGA?
Yes, new installations require planning permission, or if you are refurbishing an existing facility and plan to change the floodlighting system, fencing, or any structural changes. McArdle Sport Tec can support you through the planning and design process.
How long does it take to install a synthetic running track?
The installation of a full-size synthetic running track usually takes around 16 weeks to 20 weeks, depending on site preparation, surface type, weather conditions, and drainage requirements. McArdle ensures all installations meet UK Athletics or World Athletics specifications where required.
What maintenance is required for a 3G synthetic pitch?
Routine maintenance for 3G pitches includes weekly brushing to redistribute infill, decompaction, and regular inspection of seams and inlaid lines. Deep cleaning and top-up infill may be required seasonally.
What is a shock pad in sports pitch construction?
A pre-fabricated or in-situ rubber granule shock pad improves impact absorption, player comfort, and surface performance. It is often required for rugby and hockey to meet safety criteria standards such as World Rugby Regulation 22.
How long does an artificial sports pitch last?
With correct installation and routine maintenance, an artificial sports pitch, synthetic hockey pitch, and artificial football or rugby pitch will typically last for 8 to 10 years. Factors such as frequency of use and maintenance quality can influence lifespan.
What sports can be played on a MUGA?
MUGAs are designed for multiple sports, including football, basketball, tennis, netball, lacrosse, padel and hockey, depending on the surface type and line markings. Surface choice (e.g. polymeric, synthetic turf, or macadam) affects which sports are most suitable.
How long does it take to build a full-size artificial pitch?
Construction typically takes between 14 and 16 weeks, depending on ground conditions, weather, and the level of preparation required.
What type of artificial grass is used for 3G football pitches?
3G football pitches use long-pile synthetic turf infilled with sand and rubber crumb infill. The surface is designed to replicate the playing characteristics of natural grass, with added durability and performance.
Do 3G pitches meet FA and FIFA standards?
McArdle Sport Tec installs 3G pitches to meet the required performance standards of the FA and FIFA Quality Pro and FIFA Quality, depending on the clients requirements. Testing and certification can be arranged as part of the project delivery.
What groundworks are needed for a synthetic football pitch?
Preparation includes site levelling, topsoil removal, cut and fill excavation, sub-base and drainage installation, fand ormation of a macadam engineered base. These groundworks are essential for long-term performance and surface integrity.
What is a 3G pitch and how is it different from 2G or 4G surfaces?
A 3G (third-generation) pitch is a synthetic turf surface that uses a longer pile height and is filled with a combination of sand and rubber granules to replicate natural grass. Unlike 2G surfaces, which are sand-filled and used for hockey or multi-sport areas. 4G technology exists; however, it is still being developed and has yet to be accredited by any sporting body, including FIFA.
Is a 3G rugby pitch approved for competitive matches?
Yes. For a 3G pitch to be approved for competitive rugby, it must be tested and certified under World Rugby Regulation 22. This ensures the surface meets specific performance and safety standards, including shock absorption, energy restitution, ball bounce, and traction.
What are the differences between water-based and sand-dressed hockey pitches?
Water-based pitches are unfilled and irrigated with water prior to play to deliver an elite playing surface and performance. Sand-dressed pitches contain sand infill, offering good performance and are a very popular choice for schools and clubs.
How long does it take to install a new synthetic hockey pitch?
Typical installation takes 14 to 16 weeks, depending on site conditions, project specification and weather.
What is a MUGA and how is it constructed?
A MUGA (Multi-Use Games Area) is a purpose-built sports facility designed for multiple activities on a single surface.
What is the best surface for a MUGA court?
The best surface for a MUGA depends on the primary sports being played. Polymeric surfaces are ideal for athletics and ball sports, while artificial turf offers flexibility for football and hockey. Macadam is a low-maintenance option suited to schools and public spaces.
What are the different types of MUGA surfaces available?
Common MUGA surface types include:
- Macadam: Durable and low maintenance
- Polymeric rubber: Slip-resistant and impact-absorbing
- Synthetic turf: Versatile for football and hockey
Each surface is suited to different use cases and budgets.
What are the regulations for athletics track construction in the UK?
Track construction should align with guidelines from UK Athletics and World Athletics (formerly IAAF).
How do I know when an artificial pitch needs resurfacing?
Signs your pitch may need resurfacing include inconsistent ball roll, thinning carpet, reduced shock absorption, drainage issues, or visible seams. Most synthetic pitches require resurfacing after 8 to 10 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
How long does the resurfacing process take?
Artificial pitch refurbishment typically takes 6 to 10 weeks, depending on pitch size, weather, and site access. Projects with underlying base layer repairs or replacements may take longer.
Does pitch resurfacing require planning permission?
In most cases, resurfacing does not require planning permission if the dimensions and use remain the same. However, upgrades involving floodlighting, fencing, or structural changes may need approval.
Can McArdle Sport Tec help with planning permission for sports pitch construction?
Yes. We can assist with all necessary planning and design, including technical drawings, design specifications, drainage reports, and statements required by local authorities.
Are McArdle Sport Tec a SAPCA-registered contractor?
Yes. McArdle Sport Tec are a registered member of SAPCA (Sports and Play Construction Association), and we ensure all projects meet the highest construction and safety standards set by the UK sports construction industry.
What makes McArdle Sport Tec different from other sports pitch contractors?
Established in 1999, McArdle Sport Tec Ltd delivers fully integrated, end-to-end sports pitch and athletics track solutions. We manage every stage from design and planning, refurbishments, construction, and handover, ensuring seamless delivery and clear accountability.
With more than 600 successful installations, our case studies reflect our core values of best practice, fairness, and collaboration across 3G pitches, hockey surfaces, athletics tracks, and MUGAs.
We construct sports facilities to governing body standards and are recognised for installing exceptionally high-quality sports pitches and athletics tracks carried out to rigorous health, safety, quality and environmental compliance.
Our long-standing clients, including Wolverhampton Wanderers, the University of Birmingham, and the University of Hertfordshire, demonstrate the trust placed in McArdle’s expertise and choose McArdle Sport Tec Ltd time and time again.
