Ever walked barefoot on artificial turf in the summer and felt like you were stepping on lava? You’re not alone! One of the biggest concerns people have about artificial grass is how hot it gets under the sun. So, let’s break it down in a way that makes sense.
How Hot Can Artificial Turf Get?
On a scorching summer day, artificial turf can reach anywhere from 140 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit (60 to 93 degrees Celsius). Yeah, that’s hot—hot enough to make you hop around like you’re walking on hot coals.
The reason? Artificial grass is made from synthetic materials like plastic, which absorb and retain heat much more than natural grass. Plus, the rubber or sand infill used to support the blades tends to hold onto heat for longer periods.
But before you write off artificial turf entirely, know that there are ways to keep it cooler. A quick spray of water, adding shade, or using special cooling infills can make a huge difference in comfort.
What Makes Artificial Turf So Hot?
Let’s talk about what artificial grass is actually made of and why it heats up so much more than natural grass.
Materials Used in Artificial Turf
Artificial turf is made from synthetic fibres—usually polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon. Each material has different strengths:
- Nylon: Super durable but holds the most heat.
- Polypropylene: Budget-friendly but not as strong.
- Polyethylene: Softer and more natural-looking, but still warms up in the sun.
These fibres are attached to a backing layer (usually polyester or polypropylene), which holds the whole thing together and allows for drainage. Then, there’s infill—rubber granules or sand that help the blades stand up and give the turf a more natural feel. But infill, especially black rubber, absorbs a lot of heat.
Why Does It Stay Hot for So Long?
Unlike natural grass, which cools itself through evapotranspiration (basically, releasing water to stay cool), artificial turf doesn’t have that luxury. Once it heats up, it stays hot for a while, even after the sun sets.
Also, dark colors absorb more heat, and since most artificial grass is green (a darker shade), it soaks up plenty of sun.
How Does Artificial Turf Compare to Other Surfaces?
So, how does artificial turf stack up against other surfaces when it comes to heat?
- Artificial turf: Can hit 60°C to 90°C (140°F to 200°F).
- Natural grass: Usually stays below 38°C (100°F) because it cools itself.
- Concrete/asphalt: Can reach 50°C to 65°C (122°F to 150°F) but cools down faster than turf at night.
Essentially, artificial turf gets hotter than grass and stays hotter for longer than concrete. That’s why walking barefoot on turf can be painful on a sunny day.
Keeping Your Turf Cool
The good news? There are plenty of ways to reduce the heat and make artificial grass more comfortable.
1. Water It Down
A quick spray with a hose can drop the temperature by 20 to 30 degrees almost instantly. If you live in a hot climate, setting up a sprinkler system can make things even easier.
2. Use Cooling Infill
Certain types of infill, like silica sand or water-absorbing materials, can help lower turf temperatures. They work by storing moisture and slowly releasing it as the turf heats up.
3. Create Shade
Adding shade—whether it’s trees, pergolas, shade sails, or umbrellas—can make a huge difference. Even partial shade can reduce the turf’s temperature significantly.
4. Pick the Right Turf
Newer artificial grass products come with heat-reflective technology that helps reduce heat absorption. If you’re installing turf, look for brands that offer this feature such as Artificial Grass Orangeville, a new turf provider that we source our turf from.
5. Use Light-Colored Surroundings
Surfaces around your turf, like pavers or gravel, can reflect heat onto the grass. Using lighter-colored materials can help minimize this effect.
Final Thoughts
Yes, artificial turf gets hot—sometimes really hot—but it doesn’t mean it’s a bad choice. If you take the right steps to cool it down, you can enjoy all the benefits of artificial grass without the burn. Whether you’re setting up a backyard, sports field, or playground, knowing how to manage turf temperatures can make all the difference.
So, next time you’re considering artificial grass, don’t just think about how it looks—think about how it feels under the sun. And if it’s a hot summer day, maybe keep those flip-flops handy!