Artificial Grass Innovations | What’s New in Synthetic Turf Technology

Artificial Grass Innovations | What’s New in Synthetic Turf Technology

Green grass has long been a staple of backyards across the country. But keeping a lawn looking pristine can take a ton of time, water, and maintenance. That’s why more and more Kiwis are ditching real grass for artificial turf.

 

Artificial grass has come a long way from the rough and scratchy AstroTurf used in sports stadiums. These days, synthetic turf looks and feels incredibly realistic. The technology behind artificial grass has evolved to mimic natural grass in appearance, texture, and performance.

 

If you’re considering artificial turf for your home, you have more options than ever before. Here’s an inside look at some of the coolest innovations happening in artificial grass right now.

 

Blade Shape and Design:

The blades or fibers are what give artificial turf its grass-like appearance and texture underfoot. Early synthetic turf was made from straight, flat plastic blades cut to the same length. It looked neat but very fake.

 

Now, advanced production techniques create blades in different shapes, widths, and lengths to replicate real grass. Curved, grooved, and varied blades diffuse light differently for natural color variations. Combining wider and finer blades gives the lawn a fuller look. Diverse blade lengths result in a realistic uneven texture when you run your hand across it.

 

Backing Material:

Backing refers to the woven or perforated material used as the base layer beneath the artificial grass blades. The development of more breathable, durable backing fabrics allows for better drainage and airflow.

 

Previous options like latex and jute backings retained moisture and odors and decomposed faster. New-generation turf uses polyurethane, polypropylene, or hybrid backings selected for permeability and longevity in outdoor environments.

 

Some backings even have antimicrobial properties to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Others incorporate heat-reflecting pigments to keep turf cooler under the Australian sun. Backing advancements extend the usable lifespan of today’s artificial grass to 25+ years.

 

Infill Material:

Infill is spread between the blades to add stability and keep the fibers standing upright. It also influences the softness and natural feel underfoot. Early infill options like silica sand tended to compact down over time and need to be topped up.

 

Pile Height:

Pile height refers to the length of the synthetic blades. This greatly impacts the look and feel of artificial turf. Older products had a low, flat pile while newer options range from 25mm up to 60mm for an ultra lush finish.

 

Choosing longer fibers increases the thickness and softness underfoot. However, longer piles can encourage leaf accumulation and require more maintenance. The ideal pile height depends on your usage. For play areas, aim for a comfortable mid-range around 30-40mm pile.

 

Yarn Technology:

The yarns used to create synthetic grass blades have advanced from basic plastics to complex polymers for enhanced durability. Nylon remains the most popular choice, but new ingredients like polyethylene and polypropylene increase resilience, colorfastness, and moisture resistance.

 

Manufacturers are also incorporating multi-color yarns to achieve added realism. This technology allows blending yellow thatching fibers with green grass blades for depth and an authentic faded finish you find in real lawns. The overall look is vibrant yet naturalistic.

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Installation Methods:

Full turf installation involve complex groundworks to create a compacted base.

 

Pet-Friendly Properties:

Having dogs or cats shouldn’t mean sacrificing a beautiful landscape. The latest pet-friendly artificial grass is designed to resist odors, stains, and damage from messy mishaps inevitable with furry friends.

 

Opt for synthetic turf made specifically for pets,  An open weave backing allows liquids to fully drain through. Combine this with an infil silical sand will allow liquids to drain though.

 

Routine cleansing with mild detergent will keep your pet-friendly turf looking and smelling fresh. Regular brushing can help stand blades back up. With the right products, you can have a gorgeous lawn that stands up to pets playing and doing their business.

 

Customizable Options:

While artificial grass primarily mimics traditional lawns, you can now find products replicating nearly any landscape. Seek out specialized synthetic turf designed for golf courses, sports fields, playgrounds, patios, pools or rooftops.

 

Sustainable Manufacturing:

More brands are prioritizing eco-conscious materials and production methods for artificial grass. This includes using recycled plastics and tires in backing fabrics and infills to keep waste out of landfills.

Clean manufacturing processes help minimize water and energy consumption. Some companies use renewable solar and wind energy to produce turf. They’re also seeking ways to make synthetic grass fully recyclable once it reaches the end of life.

 

So when choosing a product, look for artificial grass made from recycled content via sustainable practices. It’s a decision that’s good for your yard and the planet.

 

Time to Go Synthetic?

Thanks to modern innovations in materials, and installation, today’s artificial grass captures the look and feel of lush real lawns. Before taking the plunge, think about your climate, yard usage, pets, and maintenance requirements.

 

If you seek a pristine green oasis with no watering or mowing, low-maintenance synthetic turf could be the perfect solution. Just do your homework to pick the right variety and quality for your needs.

 

With the recent advancements in artificial grass technology, you can have a flawless lawn that saves you time for the things you’d rather be doing.