It’s more than just synthetic grass.
Turf Types
Have you ever experienced artificial turf?
Did you stop and think about what goes into the manufacturing of synthetic turf?
It’s OK if you haven’t. Most people probably haven’t.
But, if you are wanting to learn more, we have our guide for you. Synthetic turf can be manufactured from many elements such as polyester, nylon, or combinations of both.
Check out the pros and cons of each fiber type with our comparison guide.
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.
- Will fade with direct sunlight exposure.
POLYESTER
Pros
- Not as vulnerable to expansion and contraction.
- Polyester is more UV resistant than nylon.
Cons
- Less durable than nylon per pound.
NYLON & POLYESTER
Pros
- Is water-resistant.
- Less likely to tear.
- Resists saltwater corrosion and mildew.
Cons
- Both 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 many artificial grass companies out there pitching their products. But, we’d like to let you in on a little secret. One of the most essential elements of artificial grass is not only the source of the fiber (grass blades) is made of. Turf is a complete system that must be done correctly for ideal performance. The following are just some of the components that will set apart a high-quality turf from a low-quality turf.
BACKING
The backing is made up of two layers and finished with a urethane coating. These items are critical as they secure the fibers (grass blades) in place, allow water drainage, and withstand abrasion from the base material.
INFILL
Infill is an important piece. This adds labor and time but is the final touch that ensures your warranty is good and your turf performs well. Infill provides ballast, which keeps the turf wrinkle-free and dimensionally secure. Infill adds extra protection to the yarn and backing, helps drainage, and ensures a proper footing.
YARN FIBER
The yarn fiber is made of resins made with the twin challenges of durability and softness. Fibers can be had in many shades and combinations that allow your eye to see many greens. Thatch is often added for realism.
Keeping Things Cool with Science
We love one product in particular, HydroChill™, our patented evaporative cooling technology.
Perspiration is a natural form of thermoregulation called evaporative cooling. Evaporation of moisture from the surface of the skin causes a cooling effect. HydroChill™ has similarly shown the same ability to cool synthetic turf surfaces utilizing the same principle of evaporative cooling. As the turf surface is heated by the sun, moisture stored in the HydroChill™ turf is released. As the moisture evaporates, it leaves a cooler, more comfortable surface for the players.
Astandard wet lawn will provide some cooling, but temperatures often rapidly rise and may exceed uncomfortable levels of heat. A HydroChill™ lawn has demonstrated the ability to create a large temperature differential in real-world applications. HydroChill™ has achieved 30° to 50° lower surface temperatures, based on actual lab and outdoor thermocouple testing, compared to a traditional synthetic turf system.
Less Work. More Play.
Southwest Greens is not just a product but also a solution. One that uses significantly less water each year, significantly reduces the impact on mother nature, and demands far less maintenance. All of which gives you the option of less work, more play.