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 of us probably haven’t.
But, if you want to learn more, we have our guide for you. Turf can be made out of several materials such as polyester, nylon, or combinations of both.
Learn about the pros and cons of each kind of fiber with our comparison guide.
NYLON
Pros
- While durability can be affected by denier and yarn composition, nylon is usually stronger in direct comparison.
Cons
- More vulnerable to expansion and contraction.
- Exposure to direct sunlight causes fading.
POLYESTER
Pros
- Less susceptible to expansion and contraction.
- Polyester resists UV more efficiently than nylon.
Cons
- Not as durable pound per pound than nylon.
NYLON & POLYESTER
Pros
- Water-resistant properties.
- Less likely to tear.
- Resists saltwater corrosion and mildew.
Cons
- Nylon and Polyester are flammable. However, each responds differently to fire; nylon melts before it burns, polyester melts then burns.
It’s Not Only About Fiber
There are numerous artificial grass companies out there marketing their products. But, we have a little secret to let you in on. One of the most important elements of artificial grass is not just the source of the fiber (grass blades) is made of. The turf is a whole system that has to be built correctly for optimal performance. Below are just a sampling of components that will set apart a high-quality turf from a low-quality turf.
BACKING
The backing is made of two layers and coated with urethane to finish. These components are critical because they secure the fibers (grass blades) in place, allow water drainage, and withstand abrasion from the base material.
INFILL
Infill is a crucial element. Infill adds labor and time but it’s the finishing touch that makes certain your warranty is secure and your turf performs well. Infill adds ballast, this makes sure the turf is wrinkle-free and dimensionally solid. It gives extra protection to the yarn and backing, helps drainage, and ensures a proper footing.
YARN FIBER
The yarn fiber is comprised of resins made with the dual challenges of softness and durability. Fibers come in many shades and combinations that allow your eye to see a variety of greens. Thatch is often added for even more 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 called evaporative cooling. Moisture evaporating from the surface of the skin yields a cooling effect. HydroChill™ has similarly shown the same ability to cool synthetic turf surfaces by using the same principle. As the turf surface is heated by the sun, moisture in the HydroChill™ turf is released. Evaporating moisture removes heat, resulting in a cooler, more comfortable playing surface.
An ordinary lawn with a wet surface will generate some cooling, but temperatures may quickly rise and can surpass comfortable levels of heat. In real-world applications, a HydroChill™ lawn has been shown to create a notable temperature differential. Based on actual lab and outdoor lawn thermocouple testing, HydroChill™ has achieved 30° to 50° lower surface temperatures compared to a regular synthetic turf system.
Less Work. More Play.
Southwest Greens is more than just a product, it is also a solution. A solution that uses much less water each year, substantially reduces the impact on mother nature, and requires much less maintenance. All of which gives you the option of less work, more play.