It’s more than just artificial grass.
Turf Types
Have you ever stood on artificial turf?
Did you ever think about what manufacturing synthetic turf involves?
It’s OK if you haven’t. Most people probably haven’t.
But, if you’re interested to learn more, here is our guide for you. Turf can be made out of a variety of fibers such as polyester, nylon, or varying combinations of both.
Use this comparison guide to learn about the pros and cons of each type of fiber.
NYLON
Pros
- While denier and yarn composition affect durability, in direct comparison, nylon is usually stronger.
Cons
- More susceptible to expansion and contraction.
- Exposure to direct sunlight causes fading.
POLYESTER
Pros
- Not as prone to expansion and contraction.
- Polyester resists UV more efficiently than nylon.
Cons
- Less durable than nylon per pound.
NYLON & POLYESTER
Pros
- Is water-resistant.
- Resistant to tear.
- Resists saltwater corrosion and mildew.
Cons
- Nylon and Polyester are flammable. However, each responds differently to fire; nylon melts before it burns, polyester melts before it burns.
It’s Not Only About Fiber
There are lots of artificial grass manufacturers pitching their products out there. But, we’d like to let you in on a little secret. One of the most essential elements of artificial grass is not just what the fiber (grass blades) is made of. The turf is a complete system that must be built correctly for proper performance. The following are just some of the components that will differentiate a low-quality synthetic turf from a high-quality turf.
BACKING
The backing is made of two layers and finished with a urethane coating. These items are important as they secure the fibers (grass blades) in place, allow water to flow through, and stand up to abrasion from the base material.
INFILL
Infill is a vital element. Infill adds labor and time but it is the final touch that ensures your warranty is valid and your project performs well. Infill provides ballast, which makes sure the turf is free from wrinkles and dimensionally solid. It provides extra protection to the yarn and backing, assists drainage, and ensures a proper footing.
YARN FIBER
The yarn fiber is composed of resins designed with the twin challenges of durability and softness. Fibers can be had in a number of shades and combinations which allow the eye to see numerous greens. In addition, thatch is often added for further realism.
Keeping Things Cool with Science
One particular product we love is HydroChill™, our patented evaporative cooling technology.
Perspiring is a natural means of thermoregulation called evaporative cooling. Evaporation of moisture from the skin’s surface provides a cooling effect. HydroChill™ has similarly demonstrated the ability to cool synthetic turf surfaces by using the same principle. As the turf surface is heated by solar radiation, moisture in the HydroChill™ turf is released. As the moisture evaporates, it provides a cooler, more comfortable surface for the players.
A regular damp lawn will provide some cooling, but temperatures may rise rapidly and can exceed uncomfortable levels of heat. A HydroChill™ lawn can create a substantial temperature differential in real-world applications. Based on actual lab and outdoor lawn thermocouple testing, HydroChill™ has achieved 30° to 50° lower surface temperatures when compared to a standard synthetic turf system.
Less Work. More Play.
Southwest Greens isn’t just a product, it’s also a solution. One that requires much less water each year, substantially reduces the impact on mother nature, and needs much less maintenance. All of which gives you the option of less work, more play.