Sand slit drainage system vs. sand carpet profile: what’s the difference?

What is the difference between a sand slit drainage system and a sand carpet profile?

In our previous articles on sand slit drainage systems and sand carpet profiles the principle aim of both systems is to remove excess surface water. Doing so provides a dry and durable surface that has good recovery from wear and allows for a high standard of play. There is no substitute for a well-drained natural turf profile.

These two forms of improving drainage have some common elements but are in fact quite different systems. This article provides an outline of the differences between the two systems.

Differences between a sand slit drainage system and a sand carpet profile

SAND SLIT DRAINAGE SYSTEM	SAND CARPET PROFILE
A by-pass system installed into poor draining topsoils	High sand content rootzone that allows for the rapid infiltration of water
Consists of vertical channels of high drainage rate sands and gravels	Combination of sand slit drains and a 100mm sand layer across the drains
Drains intercept water as it moves across the turf surface	Water infiltration is uniform across the entire field
Functionality is dependent on having sand to the surface in every sand slit	Functionality depends on the drainage rate of the sand and the depth of the sand layer

What are the advantages and disadvantages of sand slits profile?

ADVANTAGES	DISADVANTAGES
Useful for extending the short term life of a poorly drained sportsfield	Only affects about 5% of the playing surface
Lower cost compared to sand carpet	Not suitable for reactive soils
Less work involved - requires specialised equipment and an experienced contractor	Soil capping of the sand slit and loss of function
Less disruptive and allows for a quicker return to play	Requires the turf to grow over the new slit

What are the advantages the disadvantages of sand carpet profile?

ADVANTAGES	DISADVANTAGES
Ideal for sites where; Minimal excavation is permitted Designated flood retention areas Where there is minimal fall for sub-soil drainage systems	Shallower sand depth has reduced water retention and relies on grass roots growing into the subsoil
Lower cost compared to full sand profile	Increased nutrient leaching
Less work involved - requires specialised equipment and an experienced contractor	If the turf wears out the surface will be less stable
Can be added to an existing sand slit drainage system

Tips and reminders for sand slit drainage vs. sand carpet profile

In making a decision about selecting between sand slit drainage and a sand carpet profile consider the following points:

Is it the best option for the medium to long term improvement of the playing surface?
Is it suited to the site conditions?
What is the required standard for the playing surface?
Do the calculations – calculate the drainage capability of the sportsfield with a sand slit drainage system versus a sand carpet profile. Compare this against the local rainfall patterns. Once this is done the system can be designed and more accurately costed.
Understand the ongoing maintenance requirements and costs i.e. annual sand topdressing, periodic renovation of drains etc.

Sand slit drainage is a by-pass system that is a low cost option for improving the drainage capability of an existing sportsfield whereas a sand carpet provides uniform water infiltration across the entire playing surface. Sand carpet profiles are best suited to sites that have limitations such as; shallow grades or poor subsoil conditions.

Sand slit drainage is a less disruptive process though the sand carpet profile will have greater longevity. SPORTENG can provide a detailed evaluation of your sportsfields and assist in developing a strategy to improve the drainage rate of the field.

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