Historical independent testing proved routine brushing does not damage synthetic sports surfaces

When it came to maintaining synthetic sports pitches, one question that was frequently raised by facility operators and stakeholders:

Does routine mechanical brushing cause long-term wear to the carpet?

To provide clear, evidence-based answers to this important question, Technical Surfaces commissioned the Sports Technology Institute at Loughborough University to undertake independent research into the effects of brushing on synthetic sports carpet systems. As the UK’s premier sports university and a globally recognised leader in sports technology research, Loughborough University was uniquely placed to deliver an objective and scientifically robust assessment.

The study aimed to determine:

• Whether regular brushing contributes to fibre degradation
• The extent of wear caused solely by maintenance activity
• The long-term impact on surface quality and lifespan

Ultimately, Technical Surfaces wanted independent verification that its maintenance processes protected, rather than harmed, customers’ investments.

Led by Dr Paul Fleming, the research team recreated real-world maintenance conditions in a controlled laboratory environment. Mechanical rotating brushes identical to those used in professional maintenance were applied repeatedly across several synthetic carpet systems. Testing cycles were designed to simulate the equivalent of up to 20 years of brushing, exceeding the operational lifespan of most artificial sports surfaces. This accelerated testing allowed the team to isolate brushing as a single variable and accurately measure its impact on fibre wear.

The results were definitive.

Brushing alone produced:

• Extremely low levels of fibre wear
• No meaningful reduction in carpet integrity
• No detrimental effect on performance characteristics

In contrast, the study confirmed that the main contributors to surface degradation are:

• Intensive usage;  matches and training hours
• Environmental exposure
• Weather conditions
• Contamination and compaction

As Dr Fleming explained at the time:

“The summary results clearly show a low level of wear that was observed to be caused by the brushing alone. In reality, the effects of surface usage for playing sport and environmental factors are considered to be the main contributors to wear.”

This independent research provided the important reassurance for schools, universities, local authorities and sports clubs.

That regular professional brushing:

• Maintains fibre resilience
• Reduces compaction
• Improves play performance
• Supports player safety
• Extends surface lifespan

Far from causing damage, routine maintenance was shown to be a critical part of protecting your investment.

Technical Surfaces maintains hundreds of facilities across the UK. Many pitches under ongoing maintenance programmes continue performing well beyond their original design life, reducing the need for costly early replacements. This research supported what years of practical experience had already demonstrated: A well-maintained synthetic surfaces last longer and perform better.

Working with Loughborough University ensured:

• Unbiased, scientific testing
• Credible, third-party evidence
• Confidence for stakeholders and budget holders
• Proven maintenance best practice

This partnership reinforced Technical Surfaces’ commitment to evidence-led maintenance and continuous improvement.

Our maintenance programmes combine:

• Specialist brushing and grooming
• Deep cleaning and decompaction
• Performance testing and reporting
• Preventative maintenance planning
• Ongoing condition monitoring

Every recommendation is designed to maximise safety, performance and longevity.

The message from Loughborough University’s research was clear: Routine professional brushing does not damage synthetic carpets. Instead, it played a vital role in preserving quality and extending surface life. When maintained correctly, synthetic pitches delivered safer, more consistent performance for years longer.

With Technical Surfaces, your facility is supported by proven methods, independent research and decades of specialist expertise.

Contact Us to find how we can use our expertise to keep your sporting surface in the best condition.