SYNTHETIC TURF RESEARCH

With the cost of synthetic grass running approximately four to five times more than natural sod and the fact that this generation of products for the home is so new, consumers should really do their homework before making an investment. With the acceptance and growth of replicated grass by the public, many companies have begun to sprout up and more and more products are being introduced into the marketplace. It is vital for consumers to understand what to look for in synthetic grass products so they are able to properly assess one product from the next.

To properly evaluate a company and its products, the consumer should look at four main components: construction of the material, seaming procedure, infill system and warranty. By using these components to measure differences among products, it will make the decision-making process easier and more effective.

The construction of a product consists of its topside and its backing. The topside encompasses the blade design and type of fiber material used.Both aspects of the design greatly affect the sturdiness of a product. The most resilient composite materials used in blade composition right now are polypropylene and polyethylene. Nylon is also a material that many companies are using. The thickness of the blade also corresponds directly with the durability of the product. The thicker the blade, the more power the blade has to withstand the everyday wear and tear. Thinner blades usually carry a shorter warranty, but are also more popular due to their resemblance to natural grass.

The backing is even more important to the overall life expectancy of the product since it is the support system that anchors the blades in place; similar to that of carpet backing. Most companies use a simple urethane scrape coat, which is a synthetic material that binds and supports the fibers. This material acts like a hardened glue; ensuring that the blades are stabilized.

Evaluating the seaming procedures of a company and their products is the next component. Yards are very rarely rectangular in shape, and so most jobs require seams. Seams will be the weakest point in your lawn, and it is very important to pay close attention to the way companies bind their products together. Many companies use regular carpet seaming material and solvent-based glues to seam.

Infill is the material used to support the blade fibers as well as add additional support to the turf product. Infill is applied to the surface of the turf, and then a power broom is used to work the material between the blades. It is important to make sure proper infill material is used during the installation. Sand is commonly used, but it has proven to be detrimental. Not only does sand prevent proper drainage because it hardens when saturated with water, but it also breaks down the blade fibers because of its course features. Crumb rubber is the material of choice. The rubber comes from recycled tires, and does not compact to a hard base to prevent drainage. It also helps to resemble natural sod in that it provides more of a cushion.

Finally, we come to the warranty. Just like the products they carry, company warranties are just as varied. When studying a warranty, look for two things; the length of warranty and what is exactly covered under the warranty as it pertains to the product and installation. Although synthetic turf for the most part is extremely durable, there are circumstances in which the consumer will want to be protected. Seam rupture, fiber defects, and UV fading are all problems that may arise during the life of the product. Consumers should research which companies offer protection against these issues before making a decision.

The residential and commercial markets for synthetic grass products are rapidly expanding as the attractiveness and benefits of the latest turf products become known. With most products, however, it is wise for the buyer to know what to look for in that particular product before making a decision. By acquiring knowledge through research, consumers will help to ensure that the product they do decide to purchase will give many years of enjoyment. Hopefully these guidelines and information will help you do just that.