Worn out baseball field covers may technically still work, but they’re far from ideal for controlling field conditions. Many field managers only discover exactly how worn and broken down their covers actually are in the midst of a rain delay as the water soaks through the material rather than pooling on top. Don’t wait until you can actually see your current covers failing in the field. Watch out for these common signs it’s time to invest in quality baseball field covers from BTL Liners.
Tears, Holes, and Rips
It’s perfectly normal for all baseball field covers, even the toughest ones, to slowly develop a few holes and rips here and there. Any tarp routinely dragged over the ground and refolded on a daily basis will get thin and crack with time. However, you shouldn’t have to patch your covers more than once or twice a season to keep them looking good and holding water properly. If you are constantly pulling them out for just one more repair before the next game, it’s time for some new covers instead.
Damage to the Turf
Covers that continue to burn or smother the turf each time they’re used over the field should be replaced as soon as possible. This is usually due to poor material selection. Clear or woven tarps are prone to let too much light through the surface, creating a lot of heat buildup through the greenhouse effect. Even solid looking tarps, without specific light blocking design, can exacerbate this problem. Heavy and stiff materials press down too hard on the delicate blades of grass, break them off at the stem, or leave them permanently crimped over. Get a lighter and more light-blocking cover if you experience any of these issues.
Heavy Weight
A heavy cover does more than just risk damage to the turf it’s covering or being dragged over. It’s also generally difficult to move, making it an unpopular chore both by hand and with equipment. Many heavy and thick tarps can’t be rolled or moved by average game carts, requiring special equipment just to keep them in use. Stick with a thinner, more flexible, and lighter weight material like RPE to solve all of these issues at once. It’s much easier to find volunteers for covering and uncovering the field when you’re working with a cover that’s as light and easy to use as possible.
Lack of Visual Appeal
There’s nothing wrong with simply wanting to replace your current field covers just because they’re looking past their prime. Worn and tattered covers may still technically control moisture during a storm, but they send a somewhat negative message to fans and players alike. Even if your club or school must host a fundraiser to afford the new covers, they’ll boost morale and encourage further donations in the future.
Don’t wait until your baseball field covers fail completely. We’re standing by and ready to help here at BTL Liners. Our ArmorCover products are perfect for handling tricky athletic field projects without damage.
