Synthetic turf, also known as artificial turf or artificial grass, has many applications. It is often used in schools and playgrounds, private homes and commercial stadiums for sports such as rugby, soccer, American Football and track and field events. If you're thinking about installing synthetic turf in your home or at a public area, here are some things to know that may help guide your decision.
It Is Made With Ground Rubber -- Most types of synthetic turf are made with crumb rubber, which is simply tires that have been ground up into small pieces. The usual configuration of synthetic turf consists of artificial grass blades made from polyethylene that is attached to this rubber outer layer. Underneath is a pliable material called infill, and beneath the infill there is typically a solid boarding or backing for stability. The backing rests on a pad that protects the drainage system, which is often made from stone.
It Has Lower Maintenance Than Real Grass -- You have to mow, clip and hedge real grass, and keep it watered constantly in order for it to grow. But with synthetic turf, your maintenance isn't as labour-intensive. You will have to vacuum and brush the surface and hose it down to keep it clean, but you don't have to worry about pesticides, fertiliser or reseeding on synthetic turf. You also don't have to keep a regular watering cycle, which can reduce your utility bill.
It's Stronger Than Real Grass -- Real grass is subject to gouges, dents and tearing, but synthetic grass, by virtue of the fact that it is artificially-made, is much tougher. This doesn't just mean that synthetic turf will last longer; it also means that you will get many more years of actual play out of this material. You won't have to worry about having to delay sporting events and competitions because new grass has to grow or turf has to be seeded. You also won't deal with the risks associated with muddy fields, pocked fields and fields that are soaked with water.
It Can Be Used Indoors -- It is difficult to plant grass indoors, but if you live in an area that is prone to rainfall and you still want to use a field year-round, then synthetic turf is ideal. You can install synthetic turf in any indoor location that has space available, without having to worry about sunlight and water.
For professional advice about choosing and installing your turf—synthetic or real—talk to turf experts like Mardi Park Turf.
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