The infill material you select for your artificial turf plays a crucial role in the performance and longevity of your lawn, playground, or sports field. Different types of infill offer specific benefits, such as improved odor control, enhanced drainage, and additional cushioning. By considering the type of activities your artificial turf will be used for, you can choose an infill material that best meets your needs. Below are some popular options for infill materials and their unique benefits.
ZeoFill
ZeoFill is a natural form of zeolite that has been specially processed to remove sharp, jagged pieces of crystal. It’s an excellent choice for artificial turf installations that require odor control, improved permeability, and temperature regulation.
Odor Control: ZeoFill’s natural properties make it highly effective at neutralizing pet odors, making it a popular choice for homes with pets or artificial turf installations used as dog runs or pet areas.
Temperature Regulation: ZeoFill helps control the surface temperature of artificial turf by absorbing moisture and preventing the turf from heating up excessively in direct sunlight, providing a more comfortable surface for barefoot play.
Improved Drainage: Like other infill materials, ZeoFill helps stabilize the turf blades while facilitating water drainage through the permeable fabric underneath, ensuring the turf remains dry and functional.
ZeoFill is made from volcanic ash and is environmentally friendly. Its ability to maintain turf stability while controlling odors and temperature makes it ideal for high-traffic areas and pet-friendly spaces.
Silica Sand
Silica sand is one of the most common and affordable infill materials for artificial turf, especially for residential lawns, playgrounds, and recreational areas. It is effective at stabilizing the turf and keeping the grass blades in an upright position, but it does have some drawbacks.
Compaction Issues: Silica sand can become compacted when wet, which may reduce its ability to effectively stabilize the turf over time. This can create areas where the turf feels less resilient or uneven.
Heat Retention: Silica sand can also retain heat when exposed to direct sunlight, causing the surface of the turf to become uncomfortably hot. This may be an issue in areas with intense sun exposure or for playgrounds and lawns used by pets and children.
Maintenance Considerations: Silica sand generally does not hold pet odors, but when combined with other infill materials, it may require occasional rinsing to prevent residue buildup, which can lead to staining or unpleasant smells.
Despite these issues, silica sand remains a cost-effective and widely used option, especially when combined with other materials for added benefits.
DuraFill
DuraFill is a synthetic form of sand designed to be used with other infill materials like silica sand or ZeoFill. This advanced infill solution offers several key advantages:
Odor Control and Permeability: DuraFill enhances the permeability of artificial turf, allowing water to flow through the surface easily, while also controlling pet odors. It is particularly useful in pet areas and can help prevent odor buildup over time.
Cushion and Resilience: When combined with silica sand or ZeoFill, DuraFill offers a cushioning effect that makes the turf more resilient, providing a comfortable surface for children, pets, and athletes.
Temperature Regulation: Like ZeoFill, DuraFill helps to regulate the surface temperature of the turf, preventing it from becoming too hot to walk on during sunny days. This is particularly beneficial in warmer climates or areas with heavy foot traffic.
For playgrounds, sports fields, or lawns that experience significant foot traffic, DuraFill is an excellent choice for balancing durability, comfort, and maintenance.
Combinations of Infill Materials
One of the best ways to optimize the performance of your artificial turf is by combining different types of infill. Mixing materials allows you to take advantage of the strengths of each one, resulting in a more functional and long-lasting surface.
Silica Sand and ZeoFill Combination: By combining silica sand with ZeoFill, you get the benefits of both materials—stability and odor control, along with temperature regulation and improved drainage. This combination is ideal for pet-friendly spaces and recreational areas.
Silica Sand and DuraFill: Combining silica sand with DuraFill can help create a turf surface that offers excellent permeability, shock absorption, and temperature control, making it perfect for playgrounds and high-traffic areas.
These combinations are especially beneficial for areas that experience heavy use, such as sports fields, playgrounds, or pet areas. By blending different infill materials, you can create a turf surface that is durable, comfortable, and easy to maintain.
Final Considerations
Choosing the right infill material for your artificial turf depends on the type of activity the area will host. If you have pets, ZeoFill or a DuraFill-silica sand combination could be your best choice for odor control and temperature regulation. For sports fields or high-traffic areas, DuraFill combined with silica sand or ZeoFill will provide cushioning and durability.
Before making a decision, consider consulting with a professional landscaper or turf installer who can help you evaluate your needs and select the optimal infill material. By understanding the unique properties of each infill type, you’ll ensure that your artificial turf remains functional, comfortable, and long-lasting for years to come.