An essential component of artificial turf is the infill. This material settles into the grass blades, providing support and stability while also protecting the underlying mesh fabric. The type of infill you choose can greatly impact the performance and longevity of your artificial lawn, playground, or sports field. There are several different types of infill available, each offering unique benefits suited to specific applications. Below is a breakdown of some of the most commonly used infills: silica sand, sand/stone combinations, and crumb rubber.
Silica Sand
Silica sand is one of the most affordable and commonly used infill materials. It comes in two primary shapes: round and subangular. Both forms of silica sand are efficient at keeping the grass blades upright, but they differ in their durability and how they interact with the turf over time.
Round Silica Sand: This type of sand retains its shape for several years and is highly effective at settling deeply into the mesh. It helps stabilize the turf and gives it a natural feel. Because of its uniform shape, it doesn’t break down easily and provides long-lasting support.
Subangular Silica Sand: While subangular sand also helps keep the grass blades in place, it tends to break down over time. It is less durable than round silica, but it offers a more cost-effective option for areas that don’t experience heavy foot traffic or wear and tear.
Silica sand is excellent at settling deep into the mesh fabric, providing firm support that helps make artificial turf feel more like natural grass. Several hundred pounds of sand may be required to stabilize an average-sized lawn. However, it's important to note that pure silica sand can sometimes retain odors or become compacted over time.
Sand/Stone Combination
To combat the potential drawbacks of using only sand, some installers combine it with pea gravel or small stones. This combination helps prevent the sand from becoming compacted and ensures a firmer, more stable surface.
- Benefits: The addition of small stones, such as pea gravel, or finely cut crumb rubber, offers a shock-absorbent, durable surface ideal for playgrounds and athletic fields. It provides the advantages of both sand and stone, creating a balanced infill solution. This mixture also reduces the risk of sand holding onto odors or becoming too tightly packed, which can otherwise cause drainage issues.
This combination is a versatile option, balancing stability with comfort, making it ideal for high-traffic or recreational areas where durability is key.
Crumb Rubber
Crumb rubber, made from recycled tires, is another common infill material used for artificial turf. While there were initial concerns about its safety, studies have proven that crumb rubber is safe for both the environment and human use when appropriately used in lawns and playgrounds.
Sustainability: One of the biggest benefits of crumb rubber is its sustainability. It repurposes thousands of tires that would otherwise end up in landfills, helping reduce waste while providing an effective infill solution.
Benefits: Crumb rubber infill is especially effective in high-traffic areas like playgrounds or sports fields. It helps absorb shock from constant foot traffic, preventing the grass blades from being flattened. The rubber particles provide cushioning and elasticity, making the surface more forgiving for people playing or walking on it.
Combination with Sand: Crumb rubber can be combined with sand to create a more durable, long-lasting infill. This mixture prevents the sand from packing together while offering a shock-absorbent and firm surface. This makes it an excellent choice for areas that require both stability and comfort, like playgrounds or sports facilities.
Applying the Infill
Once you’ve selected the ideal turf and infill for your project, the infill will be applied to the turf, filling in the spaces between the grass blades. Raking the infill over the surface as it is being distributed ensures that it settles evenly. The application of infill may vary depending on the type of material used:
- Silica Sand: Settles deeply into the turf mesh and provides a firm, stable surface.
- Crumb Rubber: Offers more cushioning and support but doesn’t settle as deeply, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Combination of Sand and Stone: Provides both stability and shock absorption, making it ideal for athletic fields or playgrounds.
Each infill type serves a specific purpose, so understanding the intended use of the area is crucial in choosing the right one. If you’re uncertain about which infill is best for your needs, it’s always helpful to consult with a professional landscaper or turf installer who can offer personalized advice based on your project’s requirements.
The right infill can significantly enhance the performance and lifespan of your artificial turf. Whether you’re installing it in a lawn, playground, or sports field, understanding the pros and cons of different infill materials—like silica sand, sand/stone mixtures, and crumb rubber—will help you make an informed decision. Choose wisely to ensure that your artificial turf remains comfortable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing for years to come.