Remove Mould From Astro Turf

Three very important reasons why you should remove mould from Astro Turf

Mould growing on Astro Turf—it’s the pesky gremlin of Childcare Centre’s that won’t leave! One minute, it’s a tiny patch; the next, your once-vibrant turf is a splotchy mould disaster zone.

Thanks to our lovely warm and humid weather, those pesky mould spores are throwing a multiplication party! And if you think it stops there, think again—mould loves to set up camp in damp conditions! And guess what? If you let it hang around long enough, mould will turn your turf into its personal playground!

Not only is it unsightly, but it also brings along some serious health risks for children and staff. Most little adventurers play just a metre away from those mould spores. And when disturbed, it’s like setting off a mouldy confetti explosion! This can spell trouble for children with asthma, allergies, or any respiratory issues, so together with H-Pro let’s tackle that mould before it turns into a health hazard!

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INFORMATION / QUOTE REQUEST

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Why is mould growing on the Astro Turf?

The simple answer is, why not, mould is not picky, it’s just looking for the perfect environment to thrive. Keep in mind mould can grow on any surface, it just needs the right conditions.

How can I identify mould on my Astro Turf?

Mould comes in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colours. On Astro turf, your telltale sign of mould is those dirt-like patches popping up where you’d expect a pristine green carpet. If you haven’t spilt any mud or dirt, chances are, you’ve got mould growing right under your feet!

Act quickly to remove mould on Astro Turf

Government departments and governing bodies take mould seriously and will order an immediate remedy. This isn’t a “let’s wait and see” situation; your mould isn’t pulling a disappearing act anytime soon! Sure, it might fade into the background, but it’s not going anywhere without a chemical intervention. Mould loves to multiply, so it’s bound to spread if you don’t act fast. Remember, time is not on your side here.

Top 10 Tips for keeping mould on Astro Turf at bay in a Childcare setting

 
  1. Take a look at the play equipment, planters, benches and other items sitting on the Astro Turf. Are they on wheels and can you move them? Set about removing any items like planters that sit on the Astro Turf or consider installing castors and wheels to items. Always move the location of items on AstroTurf to allow for airflow and light.
  2. Gardens adjoining Astro Turf contain soil which holds moisture, especially if plant watering Is regular. Where possible create a dry buffer between garden beds and astro turf.
  3. Visually inspect the Astro Turf landscape, and ensure drainage contours are not obstructed by sand, toys or fixtures.
  4. Inspect drains regularly, remove leaves, sand and debris ensuring water can drain effectively.
  5. Look up at your gutters and downpipes, are your gutters blocked or downpipes leaking, always fix these issues as they arrive. Often these areas are mould hot spots.
  6. Take a walk over to the tap, is the hose in good condition, are the fittings tight and not leaking? Remember just small drips are enough to create a mould haven.
  7. Water play and wet play setup should always be in an area where water spillage can drain from the drainage contours into the drain.
  8. Inspect the play equipment, walls, paths, and Softfall, do these have mould, if so the mould spores are likely to end up in the Astro Turf.
  9. Check aircon units to ensure water runoff is not heading toward your Astro Turf.
  10. During warm and humid times of the year, make Monday your mould inspection day. You may be surprised how quickly it can appear.

Mould on Astro Turf - Pictorial Guide

The team at H-Pro has put together some of our mould favorites. We hope our top pics will help you identify mould in your Centre.

Cleaning Mould from Astro Turf – Why using H-Pro is a smart choice

H-Pro specialises in removing mould safely and effectively from Astro Turf, using the correct chemical solutions, equipment, and preferred industry techniques. Our commitment to workplace health, safety, and well-being provides the greatest safety measures for your children and staff.

Removing mould on Astro Turf a DIY approach

Not recommended to be performed by anyone without Industry knowledge.

Remove all items from the area being cleaned, that includes children and staff. Always begin the task with gloves, and a tight-fitting respiratory mask, remember safety first is the key.

Although it might be tempting to dry brush the surface or attempt to wipe the mould away, sadly you will release those tricky mould spores into the air to be inhaled and send them off to new pastures.

Use a chemical specifically for mould removal outdoors and one that is compatible with your Astro Turf.

Never and I repeat never use bleach, as bleach and children don’t mix, and it won’t kill the mould spores.

Always work in a small area, and treat the mould as per the product instructions. Treat the entire area, as it is important to kill the mould spores before wiping or hosing. Wipe with a damp cloth, then pressure wash the area.