Whether you are thinking of installing artificial grass on your patio or putting a synthetic edging on your garden, you are going to want to know about the maintenance involved. From infill and primary backings to turf maintenance and grass care, this article will help you understand how to maintain your synthetic lawn.
Synthetic vs. natural grass
Despite the fact that synthetic turf may be more environmentally friendly, it is not a good idea to use it on your lawn. Several studies have shown that artificial turfs can be harmful to humans (www.bostonglobe.com/toxic-chemicals). One study showed that the average heat reading of a synthetic field was over 200 degrees. This is more than the 122 degrees recorded on a natural turf field. It only takes two seconds for the skin to burn on a solid surface at 140 degrees.
Another study found that a synthetic field contains a multitude of toxic chemicals. The chemicals include butadiene, zinc oxide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in oil blended with rubber, and benzothiazole. These chemicals may be released into groundwater from stormwater runoff. This is especially important when artificial fields are made of ground-up tires. The best part about a grass field is that it provides a more natural look and feel. It also filters rainwater, which is one of the main reasons that it’s used in landscaping. A turf field can also be more durable than a synthetic one. A well-built grass field can provide more hours of usability than a synthetic one.
Primary backings
Having an excellent quality backing for artificial grass is an essential part of the performance of the product. The main purpose of backing is to hold the synthetic lawn fibers together and prevent them from coming loose. A good backing will also protect the fibers from UV rays. A secondary backing is made from polyurethane or latex and acts like glue to hold the blades of grass together. It also adds strength to the artificial grass system like these. Most manufacturers coat the entire back of the surface to prevent standing water and to keep the synthetic lawn firmly in place. A good quality backing will also be able to resist foot traffic and ensure that the fibers stay in place. This is measured by tuft bind, which is the force needed to pull the blades through the backing system. The appearance of the artificial grass, including its color and density, is also important. Higher density means a better-quality product.
Infill
Durafill sand is the most popular type of infill. This type of sand is made from rounded quartz cores. This type of infill is often used in high-traffic areas. It has a green color and is non-abrasive. It is also anti-microbial. This type of infill is also highly recommended for pet owners.
Crumb rubber is a type of infill that is commonly used in sports fields. It’s also used in larger synthetic turf installation projects. This type of infill has been linked to odor and heat. It’s also not as comfortable as other types of infill.
Pea gravel is also a type of infill. It is not biodegradable. It also has an uneven surface. This can make it scatter over time. It is also not as comfortable as silica or rubber. There are also non-permeable sub-bases. These types of infill are not able to be installed with nails. They need to be installed with industrial tape.
Maintenance
Keeping synthetic lawns clean is important, especially when you have young children or pets in your home. This is because debris can accumulate and form a breeding ground for weeds and bugs. It can also cause the grass to look dull and dirty. To keep your artificial lawn clean, you should brush it regularly. Using a brush will help to remove clumped areas and keep the blades of the turf upright. You can also use a hand brush or a rotary brush. You should also keep your artificial lawn clean from other debris, such as dust. Debris can also build up, causing the turf to look dull and dirty.
You should also avoid using harsh chemicals on your artificial grass. These can tear and damage the fibers. You should also rinse your synthetic lawn at least once a week. You should also avoid using bleach or strong detergents on it. Another important thing to remember is to never let your pet urinate on it. The frequency of your maintenance is dependent on the type of artificial turf you have, the number of people using the lawn, and the type of traffic in the area. You should brush it at least once a week and rinse it once a week. It is also a good idea to keep the area clean when it rains. Watering the turf during the rainy season will help to remove debris.
