Why Infill is So Crucial to Your Artificial Turf Installation
Posted by The Synthetic Turf Co. on 2nd Aug 2022
The synthetic grass itself may be the star of the show when it comes to artificial lawns, but what lies beneath is just as important. You may not give the infill under your lawn much thought, but this is a crucial component of artificial turf installation. Here's what you need to know about this important material and how to choose the right one for your needs. Call us today for a free consultation.
The Purpose of Infill
Although you can't typically see the infill from the surface, it plays an important role in your artificial turf installation. For starters, it weighs down the backing of turf, keeping it from warping, buckling, or wrinkling over time. This keeps your artificial lawn looking smooth and even over the years. It also protects the backing from harmful UV rays, which can deteriorate and damage the material over time.
The infill also helps support the artificial grass blades to keep them standing tall for a lush appearance. This prevents matting and flattening, so you won't need to rake or sweep your turf as often to keep it looking its best. It can also help to extend the life of your turf over time.
Finally, infill can alter the way your synthetic grass feels underfoot. Whether you want a solid, stable surface, like for a home putting green, or something lusher and more comfortable for playing with your kids or pets, there is an infill choice to suit your preferences.
Types of Infill
How you will use your artificial turf installation can inform which infill type is best suited for your application. Let's take a look at a few of the most common types:
- Sand – Silica sand is one of the most commonly used infill materials, thanks to its affordability and durability. It isn't the most comfortable underfoot, though, so it is best used for low-traffic areas, like decorative spaces or homes without children or pets. It is also a good choice for putting greens, thanks to its firmness.
- Pet-Friendly - Some infills are specifically designed with pets in mind, offering odor-reducing and antibacterial properties to accommodate pet waste. They tend to drain quickly to eliminate pet waste and make the turf easy to rinse clean as needed.
- Rubber - Rubber is a great choice for kids' play areas, as it is soft and plush underfoot. It won't compact over time, so it is ideal for high-traffic areas. It is also non-absorbent, so you won't have to worry about puddles forming during rainy weather.
You can also use a combination of infill materials if your needs fall somewhere between the various categories. This enables you to customize your artificial turf installation for your unique preferences.
How to Choose the Right Infill Combination
The best infill for your artificial turf installation will depend on how you plan to use your new lawn, so you'll need to take a number of factors into consideration. Our team of experts can develop the perfect combination of infill materials to suit your unique needs. Reach out to us today for a free consultation to get the process started.