Artificial Turf – As A Grass Alternative

A landscaping product that has grown in popularity over the years is artificial turf. Sports fields are replacing natural grass with artificial turf since it lasts longer and is easier to maintain and manage. There is not only one kind of artificial turf, and each kind is better suited depending on how it is laid. If you want to know what type works best for you, have a look at the types listed below.

Types of Artificial Turf

One of the biggest concerns and complaints people have about synthetic turf is that it does not look authentic enough. However, modern designs and technology have allowed landscaping companies to significantly improve the appearance of synthetic turf and still make it pet and child friendly. However, sometimes artificial turf does not look like grass at all but still has a lasting aesthetic appeal to the property, especially if it is a sports field or pitches. Below are three types of artificial turf that can be best used for your yard.

Unfilled Artificial Turf

As the name states, unfilled artificial turf doesn’t have anything filling it. Many different types of unfilled artificial turf exist and can be found at most landscaping and home improvement stores, such as Rock & Block Hardscape Supply. It is also known as water-based artificial turf, and that’s because, before use, it needs to be entirely soaked with water. Many sports pitches and fields use this kind of turf, and it will get watered down often because of this. But this is also an option for a yard. Therefore, installing an irrigation system or other watering structures keeps this turf in the best shape so it gets all the water it needs. However, due to how much it relies on water, it is not recommended to be installed in water-regulated areas. Unfilled turf also has the least likely risk for abrasions or other injuries. Olympic and international competitions use this turf very often because of this.

Sand Dressed Artificial Turf

Sand-dressed turf is often mistaken for water-based turf. This is because the sand that’s used is not always visible after it is applied. The pile for this synthetic turf has to be filled with sand to about 6-8mm from the top of the artificial grass blades. Silica sand is usually the most common choice for infill. There are also no set dimensions for sand-dressed turf, so if the client needs it to be altered in any way, the option is available.

This artificial turf provides very even-leveled ground, which can act as a great running space for children and pets, and is less likely to lead to injury that’s caused by uneven turf. However, unlike water-based turf, sand-dressed turf is very abrasive, and any person will notice the difference right away when they play on it, so rough play isn’t recommended.

Sand Filled Artificial Turf

This artificial turf is almost completely covered in sand. This turf would be the best choice for people who would prefer a harder yard surface. A good example is poly putt artificial turf that can be found at Rock & Block Hardscape Supply. This type of turf will also cause a slower-moving ball. Being the hardest of the artificial turfs, most children who play on it will experience abrasions, so rough play and close contact games like a tag wouldn’t be recommended. However, the weight of the sand used on this type of turf often leads to it being the flattest artificial turf and is also the best choice for places with people with limited space in their yards who still wish to add artificial turf.

In Conclusion

The type of artificial turf that is used will ultimately depend on the type of yard, the size of the area, and the water availability to maintain the artificial turf. While artificial turf may not require water as often as natural turf, water-based artificial turf still requires a spraying down of water to stay maintained. For areas where water is scarce or heavily regulated, then sand-filled artificial turf would be the best choice. Fortunately, there are very few differences between unfilled and sand-filled artificial turf, so from a visual standpoint, they will both look about the same. Both sand-filled and other types of artificial turf are available at Rock & Block Hardscape Supply at great prices. Many other products and services are also readily available and provided both online and in-store.

Learn More Rock and Block Hardscape Supply

At Rock & Block Hardscape Supply, all the tools and professionals are ready to assist you with any landscaping and hardscaping project you have in mind. Come visit our stores in El Cajon or Temecula today, or look at our website at https://rockandblock.co/ to view our many offers and services. Let’s start your next project today!