It’s more than just synthetic grass.
Turf Types
Have you ever stood on artificial turf?
Did you stop to think about what manufacturing synthetic turf involves?
It’s okay if you haven’t. Most people probably haven’t.
But, if you are wanting to learn more, here is our guide for you. Turf can be created with several components such as nylon, polyester, or combinations of both.
Discover the pros and cons of each kind of fiber with this 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.
- Fades when exposed to sunlight.
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
- Has water-resistant properties.
- Resistant to tear.
- Less susceptible to saltwater corrosion and mildew.
Cons
- Nylon and polyester are both flammable. However, each behaves differently in fire; nylon melts before it burns, polyester melts before it burns.
It’s Not Only About Fiber
There are quite a few artificial grass manufacturers out there marketing their products. But, we want to let you in on a little secret. One of the most important elements of synthetic grass is not only what the fiber (grass blades) is made of. Turf is a complete system that needs to be installed correctly for optimal performance. The following are just a few components that clearly identify a high-quality turf from a low-quality turf.
BACKING
The backing is composed of two layers and then a urethane coating is applied. These elements are crucial because they bind the fibers (grass blades) in place, allow water to drain, and withstand abrasion from the base material.
INFILL
Infill is a critical piece. This adds labor and time but it is the finishing touch that makes sure your warranty is valid and your solution performs well. Infill provides ballast, which keeps the turf wrinkle-free and dimensionally stable. It gives further protection to the yarn and backing, helps drainage, and ensures a proper footing.
YARN FIBER
The yarn fiber is made of resins manufactured to solve the dual challenges of softness and durability. Fibers come in many shades and combinations to allow the eye to see many greens. In addition, thatch can be 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 kind of thermoregulation known as evaporative cooling. Evaporation of moisture from the skin’s surface has a cooling effect. Likewise, HydroChill™ has shown the same ability to cool synthetic turf surfaces by working on the same evaporative cooling principle. As turf surfaces are heated by the sun’s radiation, moisture in the HydroChill™ turf is released. As the moisture evaporates, it leaves a cooler, more comfortable surface for the players.
An ordinary with a damp surface will provide some cooling, but temperatures can rise quickly and may become uncomfortably hot. A HydroChill™ lawn can create a notable temperature differential in real-world applications. HydroChill™ has achieved 30° to 50° lower surface temperatures, based on actual lab and outdoor thermocouple testing, when compared to a regular synthetic turf system.
Less Work. More Play.
Southwest Greens is more than just a product, it is also a solution. One that uses substantially less water each year, substantially reduces the impact on mother nature, and demands far less maintenance. All of which gives you the option of less work, more play.