Artificial turf has become a popular choice for sports fields and landscaping. You might wonder what keeps those synthetic blades standing tall and provides cushioning underfoot. The answer lies in the infill material.
Silica sand is the most common infill used in artificial turf installations.
Artificial Turf Toronto explains that silica sand offers many benefits as an infill. It’s affordable, readily available, and helps weigh down the turf to keep it in place. This fine sand also supports the grass blades and gives the surface a more natural feel when you walk on it.
While sand is the top pick, other infill options exist. Some synthetic turfs use rubber granules, cork, or even special cooling materials. These alternatives can provide extra cushioning or help lower surface temperatures on hot days. The choice of infill affects how your artificial grass looks, feels and performs over time.
Types of Infill for Artificial Turf
Artificial turf infill comes in several forms, each with unique traits. The main types include rubber-based, sand-based, organic, and alternative materials. Each offers different benefits for various uses and settings.
Crumb Rubber Infill
Crumb rubber is a popular infill choice. It’s made from recycled tires, ground into small pieces. This infill gives the turf a bouncy feel, like natural grass. It’s great for sports fields because it helps prevent injuries.
Crumb rubber stands up well to heavy use. It doesn’t compact easily, so the turf stays soft. But it can get hot in the sun. Some worry about its safety, though studies show it’s okay to use.
You’ll find crumb rubber in many pro sports fields. It’s also common in school playgrounds and parks.
Sand-Based Infill
Silica sand is a top pick for artificial grass infill. It’s heavy, which keeps the turf in place. Sand also helps the grass blades stand up straight.
You’ll often see sand infills in landscaping and golf putting greens. It feels firm underfoot, not squishy like rubber. Sand doesn’t heat up as much as rubber in the sun.
Sometimes, sand is mixed with other materials. This can make the turf softer or add other benefits. Pure sand infill is best for areas that don’t see rough play.
Organic Infill Options
Organic infills are gaining popularity. They’re made from natural materials like cork or walnut shells. These options are eco-friendly and safe for pets and kids.
Cork infill is light and keeps turf cool. It also fights bacteria growth. The walnut shell infill looks natural and doesn’t blow away easily.
These infills break down over time. You might need to add more every few years. But they’re a great choice if you want a green option.
Alternative Infill Materials
EPDM and TPE are synthetic infills gaining traction. EPDM is a type of rubber that doesn’t get as hot as crumb rubber. TPE is a plastic that’s safe and long-lasting.
These materials come in many colours. You can match them to your turf for a natural look. They’re often used in playgrounds and sports fields.
Some new infills even help control odours. This is great for areas where pets play. These alternatives can be pricier, but many find them worth the cost.
Functional Roles of Infill
Infill plays a key role in artificial turf systems. It provides stability, enhances performance, and improves the look of synthetic grass.
Stability and Durability
Infill adds weight to the turf, keeping it in place. This stops the grass blades from flattening. It also helps the turf drain well after rain or watering.
Good drainage prevents puddles and keeps the surface safe. The infill cushions impact too. This makes the turf safer for sports and play. It can help reduce injuries from falls.
Infill also protects the turf fibres. It stops them from wearing down quickly. This makes your artificial grass last longer.
Aesthetics and Performance
Infill makes artificial grass look and feel more natural. It helps the blades stand up straight. This gives the turf a lush, full look.
The right infill can improve how the turf plays for sports. It affects ball bounce and roll. It can make running and pivoting feel more like natural grass.
Infill also helps control temperature. Some types keep the turf cooler on hot days. This makes it more comfy to use in summer.
Maintaining Artificial Turf Infill
Proper upkeep of your artificial turf infill is key to keeping your lawn looking great. Regular maintenance helps prevent issues like mould, bacteria, and odours.
To clean your turf, use a leaf blower or rake to remove debris. This stops organic matter from breaking down and causing problems. Brush the turf fibres to keep them upright and evenly distribute the infill.
For pet owners, promptly clean up waste and rinse affected areas. This prevents pet odours from lingering. You can also use enzyme cleaners made for artificial turf to break down smells.
If you notice bare spots where the infill has eroded, add more of the same material. Spread it evenly and brush it in. This maintains the turf’s cushioning and support.
Twice a year, do a deep clean:
- Remove debris
- Apply a turf-safe disinfectant
- Rinse thoroughly
- Allow to dry completely
This process kills harmful bacteria and mold. It also refreshes your lawn’s appearance.
With proper care, your artificial turf infill will last longer and perform better. Regular upkeep prevents most common issues and keeps your lawn looking fresh year-round.
Environmental and Health Considerations
Crumb rubber is the most common infill for artificial turf, but it raises some concerns. This material comes from recycled tires and contains various chemicals.
Studies have found that crumb rubber can release small amounts of substances into the air and water. These may include heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.
The impact on human health is still being researched. Some worry about potential long-term effects from exposure, especially for athletes who spend a lot of time on these surfaces.
Crumb rubber can also affect the environment. It may leach chemicals into soil and water over time. There are worries about how this might harm plants and animals nearby.
Heat is another issue. Artificial turf with crumb rubber infill can get much hotter than natural grass on sunny days. This can make playing uncomfortable and increase the risk of heat-related illness.
Injuries are a concern too. The surface of artificial turf is harder than natural grass. This puts more stress on players’ joints and may lead to more injuries over time.
Some alternatives to crumb rubber exist, like cork or coconut fibre. These might be safer but often cost more and don’t last as long.
When choosing artificial turf, you should weigh these factors carefully. Consider your specific needs and the latest research on health and environmental impacts.
Comparing Infill Materials
When choosing infill for your artificial turf, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of different materials. Sand is common and budget-friendly, but it can compact over time. Rubber crumb offers good cushioning and durability, though it may heat up in sunlight.
Synthetic options like TPE provide consistent performance in various climates. They resist UV rays well but tend to cost more upfront. Natural materials like cork have eco-friendly appeal but may break down faster with heavy use.
Here’s a quick comparison of popular infills:
| Material | Durability | Cost | Heat Retention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sand | Medium | Low | Medium |
| Rubber | High | Medium | High |
| TPE | High | High | Low |
| Cork | Low | Medium | Low |
Your choice depends on your priorities. For high-traffic areas, rubber or TPE may serve you best. If you’re in a hot climate, cork or TPE can keep your turf cooler. Budget-conscious? Sand might be your go-to.
Remember, the right infill helps your synthetic lawn look and feel more like real grass. It also protects the turf fibres, extending the lifespan of your investment. Consider your local weather and how you’ll use the space when making your decision.