Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your outdoor space, but many homeowners ask the same question:
How to Keep Artificial Grass Cool during hot weather?
Like paving, concrete and decking, artificial grass absorbs heat when exposed to direct sunlight. While no artificial grass remains completely cool in full sun, there are several practical ways to improve comfort and create a more enjoyable outdoor space.
In this guide, we’ll explain what affects artificial grass temperature and share simple ways to keep your lawn cooler throughout the New Zealand summer.
Why Does Artificial Grass Get Hot?
Artificial grass absorbs heat from the sun, just like many other outdoor surfaces.
Several factors influence how warm your lawn becomes, including:
- Direct sunlight
- Air temperature
- Time of day
- Turf colour
- Surrounding materials
- Wind conditions
Modern artificial grass has improved significantly, with some premium products incorporating heat-reducing yarn technology designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard artificial grass.
Product testing has shown that heat-reducing yarn technology can reduce surface temperatures by up to 20% compared with standard artificial grass under comparable conditions. Actual performance will vary depending on weather, sun exposure, surrounding materials and installation.
Choose Artificial Grass Designed for Comfort
The easiest way to improve comfort is by selecting quality artificial grass from the beginning.
Premium products incorporate advanced yarn technology designed to reduce heat absorption while maintaining a natural appearance and excellent durability.
If your lawn receives full afternoon sun or will be used regularly by children and pets, choosing heat-reducing technology may provide a more comfortable outdoor experience.
Add More Shade
One of the most effective ways to keep any outdoor surface cooler is by increasing shade.
Consider adding:
- Trees
- Shade sails
- Pergolas
- Umbrellas
- Covered outdoor living areas
Even partial shade during the hottest part of the day can noticeably improve comfort.
Create a Cooler Landscape
The materials surrounding your lawn also influence surface temperature.
Large areas of dark paving, concrete or masonry can radiate additional heat into your outdoor space.
Including garden beds, planting and shaded areas helps create a cooler, more comfortable environment while improving the overall appearance of your landscape.
Thoughtful landscape design can make a significant difference to the comfort and usability of your outdoor space.
Cool the Surface Before Use
On exceptionally hot days, lightly spraying artificial grass with water before use can temporarily reduce surface temperature.
This can be useful before children play outside or before entertaining guests.
While the cooling effect is temporary, it’s a simple way to improve comfort during the hottest part of the day.
Choose the Right Infill
The type of infill used beneath the turf can influence long-term performance.
Many homeowners with pets choose zeolite infill because it helps manage odours while supporting a cleaner outdoor environment.
Selecting the appropriate infill for your application helps maximise drainage and overall lawn performance.
Professional Installation Makes a Difference
A well-installed artificial lawn performs better over the long term.
Professional installation includes:
- Proper excavation
- A stable base
- Excellent drainage
- Secure edging
- Accurate joins
- Correct finishing
Together, these elements help maximise drainage, improve long-term performance and keep your artificial lawn looking its best for years to come.
Why Many Homeowners Choose Cool Turf
Many New Zealand homeowners choose Cool Turf because it combines several premium technologies into one artificial grass system.
These include:
- Heat-reducing yarn technology
- Antibacterial protection
- Anti-moss technology
- Fast-draining performance
- Premium engineering designed for New Zealand conditions
Together, these features help create a cleaner, more comfortable outdoor space designed for New Zealand conditions.
Learn More About Cool Turf
If you’re comparing artificial grass products, these guides can help you choose the right solution.
Helpful resources:
- Cool Turf – Premium 5-in-1 Artificial Grass – Discover the premium technologies designed to improve comfort and long-term performance.
- How Cool Turf Technology Works – Learn how modern artificial grass technology improves comfort and durability.
- Why Does Artificial Grass Get Hot? – Understand what affects surface temperature and how heat-reducing yarn technology works.
- Cool Turf vs Standard Artificial Grass – Compare premium and standard artificial grass to find the right solution.
- Choosing Artificial Grass Around Swimming Pools – Learn how to create a comfortable, low-maintenance pool surround.
- Artificial Grass for Dogs in Summer – Discover practical ways to create a cooler outdoor space for your pets.
- Artificial Grass Installation – Learn why professional installation is essential for long-term performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I keep artificial grass cooler in summer?
Adding shade, choosing quality artificial grass with heat-reducing yarn technology and lightly spraying the surface with water before use can all help improve comfort during hot weather.
Does artificial grass stay cool in full sun?
No. Like paving, decking and concrete, artificial grass warms up in direct sunlight. Premium heat-reducing technology can help reduce surface temperatures, but no artificial grass remains completely cool.
Is Cool Turf cooler than standard artificial grass?
Product testing has shown that Cool Turf’s heat-reducing yarn technology can reduce surface temperatures by up to 20% compared with standard artificial grass under comparable conditions.
Does shade make a difference?
Yes. Trees, pergolas and shade sails can significantly improve comfort by reducing direct sun exposure.
Will spraying artificial grass with water cool it down?
Yes. A light spray of water can temporarily reduce surface temperature, making the lawn more comfortable before outdoor activities.
Is artificial grass still suitable for New Zealand summers?
Yes. Quality artificial grass is designed for New Zealand conditions and, when combined with good landscape design and modern heat-reducing technology, provides an attractive, low-maintenance outdoor surface all year round.
Ready to Enjoy a Cooler Artificial Lawn?
Choosing the right artificial grass and designing your outdoor space thoughtfully can make a noticeable difference to summer comfort.
Whether you’re creating a family backyard, planning a pool area or designing a pet-friendly garden, our team can help you choose the best artificial grass solution for your home and lifestyle.


