When to Use Each Through the Season

Preparing and protecting a cricket square is a balancing act between moisture, airflow, and timing. Two staples in every curator’s kit are Hessian pitch covers and Polyethylene (poly) pitch covers—each with a different job. Used well, they’ll help you manage moisture, speed up recovery after rain, and keep bounce and pace consistent right through the season.

Breathability vs Waterproofing: The core difference

Hessian is breathable. It lets air circulate and helps surface moisture wick away without “sweating” the deck. It’s ideal when you want controlled drying and a stable surface while still protecting from light dew or sun.

Poly is fully waterproof. It creates a barrier against rain and heavy dew, locks in (or out) moisture, and shields the surface during weather events. The trade-off is zero airflow—so timing and venting matter.

When to use Hessian

Use Hessian when the goal is controlled drying and surface stability.

• Pre-match preparation: After rolling, lay Hessian to let the strip “breathe” while it firms up. It minimises surface sweating and helps avoid that tacky top that scuffs easily.
• Warm, breezy days: It protects from harsh sun while encouraging an even, gradual dry—great for maintaining a true surface.
• Overnight protection (fine weather): Reduces dew without trapping too much moisture, so you’re not battling a sticky top in the morning.
• Underlay with poly: Place Hessian directly on the deck and poly over the top during unsettled weather (see combo method below).

When to use Poly

Choose Poly when you need waterproof protection or to hold a specific moisture profile.

• Rain on the radar: Poly is the first line of defence for heavy showers or storms. It keeps the deck dry and playable.
• Heavy dew/fog: Overnight poly can prevent the surface from taking on extra moisture before a morning roll.
• Locking conditions: If you’ve got the deck just right, poly helps “hold” that moisture balance ahead of play—just watch for sweating in warm conditions.

The combo method: Hessian + Poly

For many curators, the best results come from using both together:

• Lay Hessian directly on the strip to manage condensation and allow a small amount of exchange.
• Add Poly over the top to keep out rain and dew.
• In warm conditions, vent the edges (crack a corner or lift a side) and remove the poly as soon as the risk passes to prevent sweating.
  This combo is especially handy during unstable spring weather or when you need to carry a prepared strip through a wet patch into match day.

Seasonal guide (Australia)

• Early season (spring): Frequent showers and cool mornings. Lean on Hessian + Poly together—Hessian for breathing, Poly for rain protection.
• Peak season (summer): Heat and UV dominate. Use Hessian for sun moderation and controlled drying. Deploy Poly tactically for storms or to preserve match-ready conditions overnight.
• Late season (autumn): Heavier dew and intermittent rain. Return to Poly for overnight and weather events, with Hessian during fine windows to manage drying without creating a brittle surface.

Sizing, spec & setup tips

Hessian weight: Choose a robust, tightly woven grade for durability and even contact with the surface.

• Poly spec: Look for UV-stabilised heavy-duty poly with reinforced edges and quality eyelets; lighter colours (white/silver) reduce heat build-up.
• Tie-downs: Sandbags, pegs, or bungee on eyelets keep edges sealed in wind. Avoid sharp edges that could nick the cover.
• Handling: Use carry handles or storage tubes to protect edges and reduce manual strain for volunteers.

Care & longevity

• Hessian: Always dry before storage to prevent mould. Store off the ground in a ventilated area.
• Poly: Hose down grit, let it dry, and fold without sharp creases. Inspect eyelets and seams regularly and repair small tears early.
• General: Label sizes, keep an accessory kit (sandbags, tape, patch kits), and log usage so you can plan replacement cycles confidently.

Custom options

Every square is different. We can supply off-the-shelf Hessian and Poly covers—or custom-make to your measurements with reinforced hems, extra eyelets, handles, and branded options for clubs and schools. Need advice on a combo set for your conditions? We’ll help you choose the right pairing.