Life Cycle Costs of Glue Down vs Velcro Seams
Posted by Matt Garrabrants on
Velcro Seams and Life Cycle Cost Effects
Velcro Seams
Athletic Textiles has the ability to put Velcro seams on any of our pro series sports turfs that have foam pads. The reinforced woven layer helps add strength to the foam pad and turf. The Velcro is then glued to the underside of each seam and double sewn on for added strength and durability.
Understanding the advantages and when to use Velcro seams on foam padded sports turfs can be a great benefit to dealers and customers.
Recommended Uses:
Velcro seams are particularly well-suited for batting cages, arena football, and other athletic areas with high traffic and directional shifting. On the other hand, glue down installations may be a better choice for clients planning to stay for more than 5 years.
Life Cycle Cost Example
To understand the cost differences between the two options, consider the following table data example: (modify with your own exact figures)
| Cost Item | Glue Down Turf | Velcro Seams Turf |
|---|---|---|
| Turf Cost Example | $4.00/sq. ft. | $4.00/sq. ft. |
| Glue | $0.60-$1.00/sq. ft. | $0/sq. ft. |
| Install Labor | $2.00/sq. ft. | $0.65/sq. ft. |
| Removal Labor | $1.25/sq. ft. | $0.60/sq. ft. |
| Residual Value | $0 | $1-$2/sq. ft. |
| Shutdown Business | 3-7 days | 1-2 days |
| Total Life Cycle Cost | $8.25/sq. ft. | $3-4/sq. ft. |
As shown in the table, both turf options have a turf cost of $4.00/sq. ft. However, glue down turf requires glue which can cost between $0.60-$1.00/sq. ft., while Velcro seams turf requires no glue. The labor cost for installing glue down turf is also higher at $2.00/sq. ft., compared to $0.65/sq. ft. for Velcro seams turf.
In terms of removal labor, glue down turf is more expensive at $1.25/sq. ft. compared to a zero removal cost option for Velcro seams turf. You just roll it up and move it.
Velcro seams turf also has residual value of $1-$2/sq. ft. while glue down turf has none. Finally, glue down turf requires a longer shutdown period of 3-7 days, while Velcro seams turf only requires 1-2 days.
Other advantages and disadvantages of each option include:
| Advantage/Disadvantage | Glue Down Turf | Velcro Seams Turf |
|---|---|---|
| Easy Self/DIY Install | No | Yes |
| Portable/Reconfigure Space | No | Yes |
| Re-Sellable | No | Yes |
| Roll up to Service Ceiling Nets/Lights/HVAC | No | Yes |
| Replace a damaged Roll easily | No | Yes |
| Removes some of Landlord's Leverage | No | Yes |
| Seam Little More Visible | No | Yes |
In Summary, Velcro seams turf can provide a cost-effective option; easy to install option that has a potentially lower life cycle cost estimated to be $3-4/sq. ft. compared to $8.25/sq. ft. for glue down turf of equal initial cost.
However, clients should consider their specific needs, longevity in the space and maintenance requirements and circumstances when choosing between the two options.
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