What is Artificial Turf? Artificial Grass Explained

Artificial turf, also known as artificial grass, is a surface made from synthetic fibers designed to mimic the look and feel of natural grass. It is most commonly used in arenas for sports that were originally or are typically played on grass. However, it is now being used on residential lawns and commercial applications as well.

The main reason behind the increasing popularity of artificial turf is its low maintenance requirement compared to natural grass. It doesn't need watering, mowing, or fertilizing, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to natural grass.

History of Artificial Turf

The concept of artificial grass dates back to the 1960s. It was first used in the newly constructed Astrodome in Houston, Texas. The product, known as "AstroTurf," was developed by Monsanto and installed as a solution to the stadium's inability to maintain natural grass under its domed roof.

Over the years, the technology and materials used in artificial turf have significantly improved. Modern artificial turf looks and feels much more like natural grass than the original versions.

First Generation Artificial Turf

The first generation of artificial turf was essentially large-scale carpeting. It was made from fibers that were woven into a backing material and then cut into strips. This type of turf didn't have the look or feel of natural grass, and it was often criticized for its hard surface and lack of cushioning.

Despite these drawbacks, first-generation artificial turf was widely used in sports stadiums because it was more durable and required less maintenance than natural grass.

Second Generation Artificial Turf

The second generation of artificial turf introduced the concept of infill - a layer of sand or rubber crumb that is spread between the fibers to give the turf a more natural feel. This type of turf was softer and safer than the first generation, but it still didn't look very much like natural grass.

The infill also had some drawbacks. It could become compacted over time, reducing its effectiveness, and it was susceptible to being washed away by rain.

Third Generation Artificial Turf

The third generation of artificial turf, which is the type most commonly used today, has longer fibers and a mix of sand and rubber infill. This gives the turf a much more natural look and feel, and it also provides better cushioning for athletes.

Third-generation artificial turf is also more durable and requires less maintenance than previous versions. It can withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions, and it doesn't need to be watered or mowed.

Types of Artificial Turf

There are several different types of artificial turf, each with its own characteristics and uses. The type of turf that is best for a particular application depends on a variety of factors, including the intended use, the climate, and the budget.

Some of the most common types of artificial turf include nylon turf, polyethylene turf, and polypropylene turf.

Nylon Turf

Nylon turf is the strongest and most durable type of artificial turf. It can withstand heavy use and high temperatures without losing its shape. However, it is also the most expensive type of turf, which makes it less popular for residential and commercial applications.

Nylon turf is often used in sports applications where durability is a key factor. It is also used as a secondary thatch layer in other types of turf to increase their durability and resilience.

Polyethylene Turf

Polyethylene turf is the most realistic looking type of artificial turf. It has a soft, natural feel and a bright green color that closely resembles natural grass. It is also less expensive than nylon turf, which makes it a popular choice for residential and commercial applications.

Polyethylene turf is durable enough for most applications, but it may not hold up as well as nylon turf in high-traffic areas or under heavy use.

Polypropylene Turf

Polypropylene turf is the least expensive type of artificial turf. It has a lighter green color and a less natural feel than polyethylene turf, but it is still a good choice for low-traffic areas or applications where cost is a major factor.

Polypropylene turf is not as durable as nylon or polyethylene turf, and it can't withstand high temperatures without losing its shape. It is best used in cooler climates and in areas where it won't be subjected to heavy use.

Installation of Artificial Turf

Installing artificial turf involves several steps, including preparing the ground, laying the turf, and adding the infill. The process can be labor-intensive and requires some specialized equipment, but it can be done by a homeowner with some DIY skills.

Professional installation is also available and may be a good option for larger projects or for those who don't have the time or inclination to do the work themselves.

Ground Preparation

The first step in installing artificial turf is to prepare the ground. This involves removing any existing grass or vegetation and then leveling and compacting the soil. A layer of crushed stone or gravel is then added to provide drainage.

Once the ground is prepared, a weed barrier is laid down to prevent any unwanted growth from coming up through the turf. The weed barrier also helps to keep the crushed stone layer in place.

Laying the Turf

The next step is to roll out the artificial turf. The turf should be laid out in the direction that you want the blades of grass to face. It's important to make sure that the turf is laid out flat and that there are no wrinkles or bubbles.

Once the turf is laid out, it is secured with landscaping stakes or nails. The edges of the turf are then trimmed to fit the area.

Adding the Infill

The final step in installing artificial turf is to add the infill. The infill is spread evenly over the turf and then brushed into the fibers using a power broom. The infill helps to hold the turf in place and gives it a more natural feel.

After the infill is added, the turf is watered to help settle the infill and to clean any dust or debris from the surface of the turf. The turf is then ready to be used.

Maintenance of Artificial Turf

One of the main advantages of artificial turf is that it requires less maintenance than natural grass. However, it does still require some care to keep it looking its best and to ensure its longevity.

Regular maintenance tasks include brushing the turf to keep the fibers upright, removing leaves and other debris, and occasionally topping up the infill. It's also important to repair any damage promptly to prevent it from spreading.

Brushing

Artificial turf should be brushed regularly to keep the fibers upright and to maintain its natural appearance. This is especially important for turf that is used frequently or that is subjected to heavy use. A stiff brush or a power broom can be used for this task.

Brushing the turf also helps to distribute the infill evenly and to prevent it from becoming compacted. This helps to maintain the cushioning effect of the infill and to ensure that the turf drains properly.

Debris Removal

Leaves and other debris should be removed from the surface of the artificial turf regularly. This can be done using a leaf blower, a vacuum, or a broom. It's important to remove debris promptly to prevent it from decomposing on the surface of the turf and causing stains or odors.

Any spills or stains on the turf should be cleaned up promptly. Most spills can be cleaned up with water and a mild detergent. For tougher stains, there are special cleaning products available that are designed for use on artificial turf.

Infill Top-Up

Over time, the infill in artificial turf can become compacted or can be washed away by rain. When this happens, it's important to top up the infill to maintain the performance and appearance of the turf.

Adding more infill is a simple process that involves spreading the infill over the turf and then brushing it into the fibers. This can be done as part of the regular maintenance routine, or it can be done as needed.

Environmental Impact of Artificial Turf

While artificial turf has many advantages, it also has some environmental impacts. These include the use of non-renewable resources in its production, the potential for water pollution from the infill, and the disposal of the turf at the end of its life.

However, there are also some environmental benefits to using artificial turf. These include water conservation, reduced use of pesticides and fertilizers, and reduced air pollution from lawn mowers.

Use of Non-Renewable Resources

The production of artificial turf involves the use of non-renewable resources, including petroleum-based products and minerals for the infill. The manufacturing process also requires energy, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

However, the longevity and low maintenance requirements of artificial turf can offset some of these impacts. In addition, some manufacturers are now using recycled materials in their products, which can help to reduce the environmental footprint of artificial turf.

Potential for Water Pollution

The infill used in artificial turf can potentially contribute to water pollution. If the infill is washed away by rain, it can end up in storm drains and eventually in rivers and oceans. This can have a negative impact on aquatic ecosystems.

However, proper installation and maintenance of artificial turf can minimize the risk of infill runoff. In addition, some types of infill, such as organic infill made from cork or coconut fibers, are more environmentally friendly than others.

Disposal of Artificial Turf

At the end of its life, artificial turf needs to be disposed of. This can be a challenge because artificial turf is not biodegradable and can take many years to break down in a landfill.

However, some manufacturers are now offering recycling programs for their products. These programs can turn old artificial turf into new products, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Conclusion

Artificial turf is a versatile and durable alternative to natural grass. It requires less maintenance, can withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions, and provides a consistent playing surface for sports. However, it also has some environmental impacts that need to be considered.

Whether artificial turf is the right choice depends on the specific circumstances. Factors to consider include the intended use, the climate, the budget, and the environmental impacts. With careful consideration and proper installation and maintenance, artificial turf can be a practical and attractive option for many applications.