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Swimming Pool Surrounds
Swimming Pool Area Turf — Artificial Grass Around Swimming Pools
Artificial grass has become a popular choice for swimming pool surrounds, offering a durable, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional landscaping materials. It offer a safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for enhancing outdoor leisure spaces.
With their numerous advantages and creative applications, synthetic turf transforms pool areas into inviting retreats that homeowners and commercial properties can enjoy for years to come. This introduction aims to provide unbiased information about synthetic grass installations around swimming pools, highlighting their benefits, versatility, and growing popularity among homeowners and commercial properties.
Applications of Artificial Grass Around Swimming Pools
Artificial grass can be installed directly on pool decks and coping stones to create seamless transitions between pool surfaces and surrounding landscapes. Synthetic turf provides a durable and attractive alternative to concrete or pavers, enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of pool areas.
It’s also an excellent choice for waterfront landscaping around swimming pools, offering a lush, green backdrop that complements the natural beauty of water features. With its ability to withstand moisture and chlorine exposure, artificial turf provides a durable and low-maintenance solution for poolside landscaping.
Artificial grass can be used to enhance safety features around swimming pools, such as non-slip surfaces and designated play areas for children. With its soft, impact-absorbing properties, synthetic turf reduces the risk of slips and falls, providing added peace of mind for pool owners and guests.
Pool Surround Turf System Components
The graphic below (from SYNLawn) shows the individual components and features of artificial grass around swimming pools. Hover or tap on the “+” symbols to display the text that identifies the individual components. It’s worth pointing out that the system represented below is just ONE option for installing synthetic turf around a swimming pool. Swimming pools come in different shapes and sizes and the existing ground cover around your swimming pool will inform how your turf should be installed.
Pool Area Turf
• Fibers: Polyethylene Monofilament
• Pile Height: 1" to 1.5"
• Face Weight: 75 oz - 80+ oz / sq. yd.
• Total Weight: 100 oz - 105+ oz / sq. yd.
Concrete Border
Bender Board
• Secures Turf Edges
Backing
• Hole-Punched backing
AirDrain
• Elevates turf
• Facilitates drainage
Sub-Base (3" to 6")
• Aggregate base layer
• Class II Road Base
• Crushed Miscellaneous Base (CMB)
Native Soil
Artificial Grass Features
Features to Look for in Artificial Grass for Pool Surrounds:
Durability:
Durability is crucial for artificial grass pool surrounds to withstand the unique challenges of poolside environments. High-quality turf products feature durable turf fibers and robust backing materials that resist fading, matting, and degradation due to exposure to water, chlorine, and sunlight. This ensures that the pool surround remains pristine and functional for years to come, even with frequent use and exposure to harsh pool chemicals.
Drainage:
Efficient drainage is essential for artificial grass pool surrounds to prevent water accumulation and ensure a safe and hygienic surface. Advanced drainage systems, such as fully permeable backings and perforated designs, allow water to quickly drain away from the pool area, minimizing the risk of slips, falls, and standing water. This promotes a clean and dry surface that is comfortable to walk on and enhances the overall safety and usability of the pool surround.
UV Protection:
UV protection is essential for artificial grass pool surrounds to maintain their color, integrity, and performance in sunny outdoor environments. Premium turf products are infused with UV stabilizers during the manufacturing process, which shield the fibers from the harmful effects of prolonged exposure to sunlight. This prevents fading, discoloration, and degradation of the turf, ensuring that the pool surround retains its vibrant appearance and structural integrity over time, even in the harshest sunlight conditions.
Safety:
Safety is paramount for artificial grass pool surrounds to provide a secure and comfortable environment for swimmers and poolside activities. High-quality turf products are free of harmful chemicals, toxins, and allergens, ensuring a safe surface for barefoot walking and play. Additionally, the soft and cushioned texture of artificial grass reduces the risk of injuries from slips, falls, and impacts, providing peace of mind for families and guests enjoying the pool area.
Aesthetics:
Aesthetics play a significant role in artificial grass pool surrounds, enhancing the overall visual appeal and ambiance of the pool area. High-quality turf products feature lifelike fibers, vibrant colors, and realistic textures that mimic the look and feel of natural grass, creating a lush and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, artificial grass can be customized to complement various pool designs and landscaping styles, from modern and contemporary to rustic and tropical, adding beauty and sophistication to any outdoor space.
Infill Options
What’s the Best Infill for Artificial Grass Pool Surrounds?
Infill for Swimming Pool Surrounds:
Infill is applied to artificial turf to keep the turf fibers upright, facilitating drainage, acting as ballast to anchor the turf in place and provide cushioning during falls. The best infill material for artificial grass swimming pool surrounds will vary from project to project based on location and budget. Click the name of an infill below to learn about its efficacy.
Envirofill
Envirofill infill is a high-quality, durable infill material designed specifically for artificial grass installations. It is composed of rounded quartz core coated with a green acrylic resin. What sets Envirofill apart is its antimicrobial protection technology, Microban®. This technology is incorporated into the coating, providing continuous antimicrobial protection that helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. This feature is particularly beneficial in pet areas, playgrounds, and sports fields where hygiene is a significant concern.
T°Cool Infill
T°Cool Infill is an advanced infill solution for artificial turf that incorporates both evaporative cooling technology and antimicrobial protection. This specialized infill is designed to address the heat issue commonly associated with artificial turf, especially in warm climates. Evaporative cooling technology is incorporated into T°Cool Infill and works by retaining moisture, which, when heated by the sun, evaporates and significantly reduces the surface temperature of the turf.
The evaporative cooling process can lower turf temperatures by up to 50° F, providing a cooler, more comfortable surface. The cooling effect is activated by watering, either naturally through rain or manually with a hose or sprinkler system. In addition to its cooling properties, T°Cool Infill also offers antimicrobial protection. This feature helps in preventing the growth of bacteria and microbes, ensuring a hygienic surface that is particularly beneficial in pet-friendly areas and where children will be playing.
SafeShell® & SafeShell SmoothPlay™
SafeShell® and SafeShell SmoothPlay™ are both part of the Motz Group’s organic infill lineup, made from 100% USA-grown walnut shells. These infills provide all the benefits of a natural infill while maintaining safety, integrity, and quality. They are low-maintenance, long-lasting, and safe for people, pets, and the environment, making them a significant improvement for turf systems.
Safeshell SmoothPlay is Motz’s latest innovation in infills, designed to be cooler, with less friction and high durability. Its fine granular size allows it to settle easily into dense turf systems, resulting in a less abrasive surface. Abrasion in SmoothPlay is reduced by up to 42% compared to traditional crumb rubber and sand systems. The toughness, durability, and natural cooling properties of Safeshell make it suitable for sports fields, while its allergen- and toxin-free nature makes it an ideal choice for playgrounds.
Sub-Base Preparation
What Type of Sub-Base Does Pool Area Turf Require?
Sub-Base Material:
The ideal sub-base material for artificial grass around swimming pools is a combination of crushed stone and decomposed granite. This mixture provides excellent drainage properties, allowing water to quickly drain away from the pool area and preventing the accumulation of standing water. Additionally, the compacted sub-base offers stability and support for the artificial turf, ensuring a level surface that withstands heavy foot traffic. It also helps to prevent the growth of weeds and ensures proper installation of the turf, enhancing the overall durability and longevity of the poolside landscaping.
Benefits of Installing Artificial Grass Around Pools
Low Maintenance
Unlike natural grass, which requires regular watering, mowing, and weed control, artificial turf around swimming pools requires minimal upkeep. Simply rinse the surface occasionally to remove debris and keep it clean, saving homeowners time and effort on maintenance chores.
Safety
Artificial turf provides a soft, cushioned surface around the pool, reducing the risk of slips, falls, and injuries, especially for children and pets. Its non-abrasive texture and superior traction offer a safer environment for poolside activities.
Durability
Synthetic grass is highly durable and resilient, capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic, UV exposure, and harsh weather conditions without fading, matting, or deteriorating. Its long-lasting performance ensures years of enjoyment and minimal maintenance for homeowners.
Cleanliness
Artificial turf provides a clean and hygienic surface around the pool, free from mud, dirt, and allergens commonly associated with natural grass. Its smooth, non-porous texture prevents mud and puddles, creating a cleaner and more enjoyable poolside experience.
Versatility
Synthetic grass can be customized to fit any pool shape or size, allowing for seamless integration into existing landscapes and architectural designs. With various shades, textures, and installation options available, homeowners can create a customized pool surround that complements their outdoor aesthetics and lifestyle.
Eco-Friendly
By replacing natural grass with artificial turf, homeowners can conserve water resources and reduce water usage for irrigation, contributing to sustainability efforts and environmental conservation. You’ll also lower your carbon footprint and reduce your overall environmental impact.
Swimming Pool Surround Gallery
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FAQs
Do pool chemicals damage artificial grass?
A high-quality artificial grass won’t be effected or damaged by pool chemicals. Whether chlorine or salt, any water splashed out of the pool onto your artificial grass will simply pass through the turf’s backing and drain back into the pool or into the ground below.
Can I put a table, chairs or umbrella on artificial grass?
Yes. Artificial grass behaves similarly to a carpet when objects are places on it. The turf fibers will be pressed down until the item is removed, at which point the turf fibers will return to their upright position. They may need a little coaxing with a sof bristled push broom to speed up the process.
Can I put an above ground pool on artificial grass?
Yes. An above ground pool filled with water weighs a lot but as long as the sub layer was prepared properly the artificial grass will not be damaged or have any problems holding the weight. The grass blades will flatten under the pool and should rebound quite nicely if the pool is ever drained or moved.
Is artificial grass safe for my kids & pets to play on?
Artificial grass is engineered with safety in mind, providing a secure and comfortable surface for children, pets, and recreational activities. High-quality synthetic turf products are free of harmful chemicals, toxins, and allergens, ensuring a safe environment for families and pets to enjoy. Additionally, artificial grass features a soft and cushioned texture that reduces the risk of injuries from falls or impacts, making it an ideal choice for playgrounds, backyard play areas, and sports fields. With its non-abrasive surface and reliable traction, artificial grass offers peace of mind and protection for users of all ages.
Can artificial grass withstand the sun's heat & uv-rays?
Yes. UV protection is essential for maintaining the color and integrity of artificial grass, especially in sunny climates where prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading and degradation. Premium synthetic turf products are infused with UV stabilizers during the manufacturing process, which act as a barrier against harmful UV rays. This helps to prevent discoloration, fading, and deterioration of the grass fibers, ensuring that artificial grass maintains its vibrant appearance and structural integrity over time. With built-in UV protection, artificial grass offers long-lasting beauty and performance, even in the harshest outdoor environments.
Is artificial grass slippery when wet?
No. Artificial grass is designed to be non-slip when wet. The efficient drainage system on quality turf products means that the turf around your pool won’t hold water, and it will dry out very fast in the sun.
How much does artificial grass around pools cost?
Swimming pool area turf installation costs vary from project to project. The total cost of your project will be determined by the following:
- Size or Square Feet of the Project
- Amount of Pre-Installation Site Prep Required
- Amount & Type of Base Used [if needed]
- Turf Product Chosen
- Type & Amount of Infill
Installation Extras:
- Linear feet of bender board used [if used]
- Square feet of drainage membrane used [if used]
- Any special requests
To learn more about artificial grass installation costs, check out the following resources:
Does artificial grass look fake, or is it realistic?
Artificial grass is available in a wide range of colors, textures, and blade lengths to suit various aesthetic preferences and landscaping styles. High-quality synthetic turf products mimic the look and feel of natural grass, with soft, lifelike fibers that create a lush and inviting appearance. Additionally, artificial grass can be customized to enhance specific outdoor spaces, from manicured lawns and gardens to rooftop terraces and commercial landscapes. With its versatility and aesthetic appeal, artificial grass adds beauty and value to any environment, transforming dull or unattractive areas into vibrant and inviting outdoor retreats.
Artificial Turf Resources
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