It’s more than just synthetic grass.

Turf Types

Have you ever been on artificial turf?

Did you stop and think about what manufacturing synthetic turf involves?

It’s fine if you haven’t. Most people probably haven’t.

But, if you’re interested to learn more, we’ve got our guide for you. Synthetic turf can be made out of a variety of materials such as polyester, nylon, or varying combinations of both.

Check out this comparison guide to learn about the pros and cons of each type of fiber.

NYLON

Pros

• While durability can be affected by denier and yarn composition, nylon is usually stronger when compared directly.

Cons

• More susceptible to expansion and contraction.
• Fades when exposed to sunlight.

POLYESTER

Pros

• Less susceptible to expansion and contraction.
• Polyester resists UV more efficiently than nylon.

Cons

• Not as durable than nylon per pound.

NYLON & POLYESTER

Pros

• Water-resistant properties.
• Resistance to tearing.
• Resists saltwater corrosion and mildew.

Cons

• Nylon and Polyester are flammable. However, each behaves differently in fire; nylon melts before it burns, polyester melts then burns.

It’s Not Only About Fiber

There are many artificial grass companies out there marketing their products. But, we have a little secret to let you in on. One of the most important elements of synthetic grass is not just the material the fiber (grass blades) is composed of. Turf is a complete system that has to be built correctly for proper performance. Below are just some of the elements that will set apart a low-quality synthetic turf from a high-quality turf.

BACKING

The backing is comprised of two layers and then a urethane coating is applied. These elements are important because they bind the fibers (grass blades) in place, allow water to drain, and withstand abrasion from the base material.

INFILL

Infill is an important element. Infill adds labor and time but is the finishing touch that ensures your warranty is secure and your solution performs well. Infill provides ballast, which ensures the turf is wrinkle-free and dimensionally secure. It also adds extra protection to the yarn and backing, helps drainage, and ensures a proper footing.

YARN FIBER

The yarn fiber is made of resins designed with the twin challenges of softness and durability. Fibers are available in multiple shades and combinations which allow your eye to see various greens. In addition, thatch is often added for even more realism.

Keeping Things Cool with Science

One particular product we love is HydroChill™, our patented evaporative cooling technology.

Sweating is a natural form of thermoregulation known as evaporative cooling. Moisture evaporating from the skin’s surface causes a cooling effect. Similarly, HydroChill™ has shown the same ability to cool synthetic turf surfaces by working on the same principle of evaporative cooling. As the turf surface is heated by solar radiation, moisture present in the HydroChill™ turf is released. As the moisture evaporates, it gives a cooler, more comfortable surface for the players.

 

An ordinary damp lawn will provide some cooling, but temperatures can rise rapidly and can exceed uncomfortable levels of heat. A HydroChill™ lawn has demonstrated the ability to create a notable temperature differential in real-world applications. Based on actual lab and outdoor lawn thermocouple testing, HydroChill™ has achieved 30° to 50° lower surface temperatures versus a standard synthetic turf system.

Less Work. More Play.

Southwest Greens is more than just a product, it is also a solution. A solution that utilizes notably less water each year, significantly reduces the impact on mother nature, and needs much less maintenance. All of which gives you the option of less work, more play.

See The Greens