![Turf Network Color Logo [500 x 100]](https://turfnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Turf-Network-Color-Logo-500-x-100.png){kind=logo}
Features
Explore the Features & Technologies That are Incorporated Into Artificial Grass
The range of residential and commercial applications of artificial grass is vast and growing as new uses for faux grass are discovered. As you can imagine, not every turf product is suitable for every situation. To meet the needs of consumers, turf manufacturers have developed features and enhancements that improve the durability, versatility, and functionality of their products.
Modern artificial grass products are equipped with a number of features that you’ve likely never heard of. Not every feature is necessary for every application of synthetic turf. Knowing what features to look for and what to ignore will empower you to ask the right questions and make an informed decision when considering artificial grass for your home, business, or organization. We’ll continue adding features and technologies to this page as advancements in materials and manufacturing innovations continue to advance the turf industry.
Antimicrobial Protection
Antimicrobial technology is a game-changer in the artificial grass industry. Working as a shield, antimicrobial additives prevent bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms from proliferating. These additives are formulated for different materials and production processes. The antimicrobial additives are incorporated into the plastic resin used to create the turf fibers. This incorporates antimicrobial protection into the molecular structure of the fibers. The technology remains active throughout the expected lifetime of the turf product, so it won’t wash away or wear off. By helping to prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors from dog urine, antimicrobial protection offers a safer, more hygienic environment for children and pets.
UV-Protection
Like any material that’s exposed to the sun for prolonged periods, synthetic grass is susceptible to damage from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Fortunately. modern turf products are equipped with UV-stabilizers that are incorporated into turf products during the manufacturing process. These additives help prevent fading, brittleness and premature product degradation, extending the life of artificial grass. Just like our skin, artificial grass needs extra protection to combat aging. UV radiation can damage the molecular makeup of certain materials, leading to faster deterioration. Choose high-quality UV-protected artificial turf to ensure longevity and resistance against UV radiation.
Turf Drainage Options
Artificial grass serves more than just aesthetic purposes, although having a beautiful yard is definitely a bonus. It also needs to be functional, especially when it comes to handling rainwater and pet urine. That’s where turf drainage comes into play. The two most common types of turf backing that facilitate drainage are: hole-punched or fully-permeable. Hole-punched backings are the most common type of drainage as it’s time-tested and reliable. Water or urine passes through holes spaced 4 - 6” apart. Fully-permeable backings allow water or urine to pass through any point in the backing. Also referred to as “Edge-to-Edge” or “Flow-Through” drainage, fully-permeable backings drain liquids more efficiently than hole-punched backings. 100% permeable backings are popular for pet-friendly applications. Each turf backing has is advantages and disadvantages. It’s up to you to decide which turf backing you want on your artificial grass.
Anti-Static Technology
Static electricity can occur when two materials are moving in opposite directions and rubbing together. In extremely cold or warm weather, or when the air is especially dry, the static can increase. For most, it’s a nuisance but for others with sensitive electronic devices, like hearing aids it can cause severe damage. When normal actions happen on artificial turf then a turboelectric charge can build up but will eventually fade over time. When static electricity does arise on artificial grass it can have a variety of effects. On surfaces with infill, it will often stick to blades and clothing. Occasionally, a static discharge will cause the feeling of a small static shock when you touch someone or something. This has led artificial turf manufacturers to develop anti-static technology that’s embedded into the blades of artificial grass. With this technology, the build-up of static charge is minimized and you can safely enjoy your artificial turf.
Bio-Based Materials
One of the biggest manufacturers of artificial grass is SYNLawn. They produce very high-quality turf products and are constantly striving to innovate and improve their products. One such innovation is their “EnviroLoc+” Bio-Based Backing System, which is a multi-layer component system that “locks” in durable turf fibers, extending the product’s life cycle. Made in the USA, the EnviroLoc+ Backing System replaces a large portion of petroleum-based polymers (polyethylene and polypropylene) with bio-based polymers created from sustainable resources including soybean oil from American farmers. While their products are some of the best in the industry, they do come with a hefty price tag.
Heat Blocking Technology
A common complaint with artificial turf is the “Heat Issue,” which is most common on sports fields but still poses a concern for home and business owners. Synthetic grass doesn’t radiate heat like natural grass, so turf manufacturers have been working on solutions to this problem. One solution is to use 3D fibers that reduce the surface area exposed to the sun throughout the day thereby lowering the surface temperature of the turf. The second solution is to use pigments that reflect more infrared light to keep them cooler during the midday sun. The need for these features in your artificial grass will depend on where you live and what your turf is being used for. There are also a number of infill options available to combat this issue.
Become a Turf Network PRO Today!
Grow Your Turf Company With Us!
Connect with homeowners and businesses actively seeking artificial turf solutions.
![Turf Network White Logo [500 x 100]](https://turfnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Turf-Network-White-Logo-500-x-100.png){kind=logo}