With fake turf gradually becoming more and more popular, it's natural to wonder what all the fuss is about. How is artificial turf made, and why should you consider buying some for your home or property? In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the science of synthetic turf—from how it's manufactured to its many benefits. Keep reading to learn more!
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What is Artificial Turf Made Of?
What is artificial turf made of, and how is it different from real grass?
The short answer is that artificial turf is made of plastic. But what exactly does that mean?
Synthetic turf materials are made of polyethylene, a type of plastic that is derived from crude oil. This material is chosen for turf because it is durable, non-toxic, and can withstand high surface temperatures.
Polyethylene is broken down into two types: thermoplastic and thermoset. Thermoplastic Polyethylene (TPE) is the type used to make artificial. It is a soft plastic that can be melted and reformed, which makes it ideal for creating turf.
Now that we know what turf is made of, let's dive into how it's made!
Manufacturing Process of Artificial Turf
How does the manufacturing process work?
The process of making synthetic turf begins by heating polyethylene pellets until they are liquefied. The liquid is then poured into molds, where it is cooled and solidified. This creates the blades of grass that we see on fake turf.
Once the blades are formed, they are trimmed to the desired height and attached to a backing. The backing can be made of various materials, including polypropylene, rubber, or mesh. It is important that the backing is durable and waterproof, as it will be exposed to the elements.
Once the turf is assembled, it is treated with a UV inhibitor to protect it from the sun's rays. This helps to keep the turf looking fresh for years to come.
While the scientific properties of the creation of artificial grass can be extremely complicated, its benefits aren't! Below we'll take a look at how an artificial grass lawn can outperform a real one.
Benefits of Artificial Grass Over Natural Grass Lawns
What are the benefits of turf over real grass lawns?
For synthetic turf to be spreading as quickly as it is, surely there have to be some benefits over natural lawns! There are several reasons why you might want to consider switching to the use of turf. Here are just a few of the reasons many are opting for artificial turf installation.
Turf is cheaper in the long run. A natural grass lawn needs to be mowed, watered and fertilized regularly. Turf requires none of these things, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Turf can withstand heavy use and is resistant to wear and tear. A natural lawn can become worn down and muddy with too much use, but turf will hold up against even the most active households.
Turf is safe for children and pets. Unlike natural grass, turf is non-toxic and will not cause any allergic reactions. It is also soft and safe for children and pets to play on.
Turf looks great all year round. Unlike natural grass, which can turn brown in the winter, turf will stay green no matter what the weather is like.
It's clear to see the personal benefits of artificial turf are endless, but let's learn a bit about how artificial turf impacts the environment.
Environmental Impacts of Synthetic Turf
Are there any potential environmental concerns with using synthetic turf, and how do they compare to those associated with traditional landscaping methods?
One of the main environmental concerns with synthetic turf is the impact it has on water usage. While turf does not require watering, it still needs to be cleaned. This can be done with a hose or by using a special cleaning solution that is designed to break down the polyethylene.
Another concern is the use of chemicals in the manufacturing process. As we mentioned earlier, polyethylene is derived from crude oil. The manufacturing process of turf also uses a variety of chemicals, including lead and mercury. However, these chemicals are not released into the environment during use, leaving you at peace of mind when enjoying your favorite outdoor space!
The final environmental concern with synthetic turf is its impact on climate. Synthetic turf can actually lower the area temperature in comparison to traditional landscaping methods. This is because the synthetic materials used in turf do not evaporate water, which releases heat into the environment. While this may seem like a negative impact, it is actually a benefit in areas that experience high temperatures during the summer months.
As one of the most environmentally friendly ways to use plastic, the benefits of artificial turf are seemingly endless. In addition to helping the environment, and helping you save money, let's see how artificial turf can save you time on maintenance!
Durability and Maintenance of Artificial Turf Systems
How long does synthetic turf last, and what kind of maintenance is required to keep it looking its best year-round?
One of the best things about synthetic turf is that it requires very little maintenance. Most turf products come with a 10-year warranty, but here at DelaTurf, we offer a 16-year manufacturer's warranty to ensure you get the full life out of your lawn that you deserve. By using a stiff broom, you can clear any leaves, dirt, or other debris from your turf regularly. You can also hose down your lawn to clean it if you like, but make sure to use a spray nozzle that is designed to break down the polyethylene.
In order to keep your turf looking its best all year round, we recommend an annual deep cleaning. This can be done by our professionals or by you using our special deep cleaning solution. All you need to do is pour the solution over your lawn, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse with a hose.
Rather than spending your summers using your lawnmower and de-weeding everything in the summer heat, enjoy the days cooking out, exercising, or using your premier outdoor space however you see fit!
DelaTurf: Experts of Artificial Landscaping for Central Florida
Thanks to its many benefits-including environmental friendliness, durability, and low maintenance requirements, artificial turf is becoming an increasingly popular choice for residential and business lawns. Now that you know the science behind it, if you're considering installing synthetic turf in your yard, make sure to call the experts at DelaTurf at (407)-225-4288! We'll make sure your lawn looks its best for years to come.
The Grass is ALWAYS Greener with DelaTurf
DelaTurf services the following areas:
Orange County, Seminole County, Lake County, Osceola County, Volusia County, and Broward County. Our team commonly operates in Metro West, Doctor Phillips, Windermere, Kissimmee, Winter Garden, Gotha, Oviedo, Oakland, Apopka, College Park, Winter Park, Sorrento, Longwood, Altamonte Springs, Lake Mary, Heathrow, & Sanford.