Sand infill for artificial grass absorbs shock, deters bacteria, and provides the same durability as crumb rubber, making it an excellent solution for playgrounds, pet areas, and yards. As more people turn to artificial turf for its consistent, beautiful appearance, understanding the role of infill is crucial. Infill supports and stabilizes artificial turf, ensuring it looks and feels like real grass. While there are various infill options, sand stands out as the best choice for most artificial grass applications.
The Role of Infill in Artificial Grass
Natural grass blades stand upright because their roots anchor them in the soil, providing stability even under pressure. To mimic this effect, artificial turf relies on infill, which is typically made of sand or rubber. Infill gives artificial turf its shape, stability, and uniformity. The type of infill chosen can depend on the intended use of the artificial turf. For instance, sports fields often use rubber infill for its shock-absorbing properties. However, sand infill offers these same qualities along with additional benefits, making it a superior option.
Components of Artificial Turf
Understanding the different materials in artificial turf can highlight why sand is the preferred infill. Most artificial turf installations start with a drainage layer of crushed stone or oyster gravel to ensure efficient fluid drainage. Above this, a shock-absorbing layer may be added for extra cushioning. The infill layer is then spread among the grass blades, providing the structure needed for them to stand upright. Infill is essential for maintaining the integrity, shape, and drainage capability of artificial turf, especially in high-traffic areas.
Types of Infill and Their Uses
There are several primary types of infill for artificial turf, each with its pros, cons, and ideal applications.
Silica Sand: Silica sand consists of small, angular granules made of silica, a derivative of quartz weathered by the elements. It is inexpensive and works well in low-traffic areas, such as patios, balconies, or areas with minimal foot traffic. Silica sand is easy to find and install, making it a popular choice for less demanding applications.
Durafill Sand: Similar to silica sand, Durafill sand is derived from quartz but is round-shaped. It doesn’t trap heat and doesn’t absorb liquids, allowing for efficient drainage. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent bacteria growth and pet odors, making it a great choice for pet areas and yards.
Rubber: Rubber infill, often made from recycled tires ground into small granules, is popular for sports fields due to its unique bounce and shock absorption. However, rubber can trap odors and heat, resulting in warmer surfaces and potential black dust residue on clothing and furniture.
Rubber/Sand Mixture: Combining rubber and sand can offer the benefits of both materials, though it may also carry some of the drawbacks of rubber, such as odor retention and heat absorption.
The Benefits of Sand Infill
Sand infill is highly durable, absorbent, and versatile, making it ideal for a variety of applications. It helps grass blades in high-traffic areas maintain their integrity and shape, ensuring a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing lawn. Typically, 1-2 pounds of infill per square foot of artificial turf is recommended to provide adequate support and enable blades to bounce back after being walked on.
By choosing sand infill, you ensure that your artificial grass remains functional, durable, and beautiful, providing a perfect outdoor space for years to come.