It’s more than just synthetic grass.
Turf Types
Have you ever experienced artificial turf?
Did you think about what goes into the manufacturing of synthetic turf?
It’s fine if you haven’t. Most people probably haven’t.
But, if you’re interested to learn more, we have our guide for you. Artificial turf can be manufactured from many components such as nylon, polyester, or combination of both.
Use this comparison guide to discover the pros and cons of each type of fiber.
NYLON
Pros
- While durability can be affected by denier and yarn composition, in direct comparison, nylon is usually stronger.
Cons
- More susceptible to expansion and contraction.
- Exposure to direct sunlight causes fading.
POLYESTER
Pros
- Less prone to expansion and contraction.
- Polyester is more UV resistant than nylon.
Cons
- Not as durable pound per pound than nylon.
NYLON & POLYESTER
Pros
- Water-resistant properties.
- Less likely to tear.
- Less susceptible to saltwater corrosion and mildew.
Cons
- Nylon and Polyester are flammable. However, each reacts differently to fire; nylon melts before it burns, polyester melts before it burns.
It’s Not Only About Fiber
There are numerous artificial grass manufacturers pitching their products out there. But, we’d like to let you in on a little secret. One of the most important elements of synthetic grass is not just what the fiber (grass blades) is made of. Turf is a whole system that needs to be implemented correctly for proper performance. The following are just some of the components that clearly identify a low-quality synthetic turf from a high-quality turf.
BACKING
The backing is made up of two layers and coated with urethane to finish. These items are vital because they secure the fibers (grass blades) in place, allow water to drain, and withstand abrasion from the base material.
INFILL
Infill is a crucial piece. This adds labor and time but is the final touch that ensures your warranty is good and your turf performs well. Infill adds ballast, which ensures the turf is free from wrinkles and dimensionally secure. Infill also adds extra protection to the yarn and backing, helps drainage, and ensures a proper footing.
YARN FIBER
Yarn fiber is composed of resins designed to solve the competing challenges of softness and durability. Fibers come in numerous shades and combinations which allow the eye to see various greens. In addition, thatch is often added for further realism.
Keeping Things Cool with Science
One product we particularly love is HydroChill™, our patented evaporative cooling technology.
Perspiring is a natural form of thermoregulation known as evaporative cooling. Evaporation of moisture from the surface of the skin has a cooling effect. Likewise, HydroChill™ has demonstrated the ability to cool synthetic turf surfaces by using the same principle. As the turf surface is heated by the sun’s radiation, moisture present in the HydroChill™ turf is released. As the moisture evaporates, it gives a cooler, more comfortable playing surface.
An ordinary wet lawn will cause some cooling, but temperatures often rise quickly and can surpass comfortable levels of heat. A HydroChill™ lawn can create a large 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 typical synthetic turf system.
Less Work. More Play.
Southwest Greens is more than just a product, it is also a solution. One that uses significantly less water each year, substantially reduces the impact on mother nature, and demands much less maintenance. All of which gives you the option of less work, more play.