Artificial turf (also called synthetic grass) is a popular landscaping solution for indoor and outdoor facilities alike, especially athletic fields. Whereas natural grass requires a great deal of year-round maintenance (irrigation, mowing, mulching, pest control, weeding, snow removal, etc.), artificial turf provides a similar surface for foot traffic without all the upkeep. That said, there are still several considerations to make when choosing the type of synthetic grass for your facility, and some maintenance is required to keep your turf functional and fresh-looking.
At The Budd Group, our landscaping services include artificial turf infill installation and maintenance for athletic facilities and more. Our experts can help you choose the right kind of synthetic grass and infill for your facility, properly set it up, and maintain it.
What is Artificial Turf Infill?
Artificial turf systems consist of two key components: the synthetic blades themselves and the infill (several small particles of a given material), which is placed between them. From a distance, only the grass is visible, but the infill is responsible for getting the grass to stand up, even after it has been compressed by feet, vehicles, or other forms of impact. Not only does infill keep the turf upright, it also protects the field from UV rays, delivers the bouncy feel of natural grass, assists in draining the field after rain, and, in some cases, can guard against the infestation of bacteria, fungi, and other unwanted microbes.
Artificial Turf Infill Options
Artificial turf infill can be composed of different materials, some of which may be more or less suitable for a given athletic facility. The main infill options include:
- Silica Sand: this is made of angular quartz granules and is typically the cheapest option — good for facilities with minimal use and low foot traffic, so perhaps not optimal for athletic facilities.
- Acrylic Sand: an antimicrobial option, acrylic coated sand is durable, odor-free, and doesn’t absorb moisture or heat — this is a good option for smaller athletic fields and play areas, though it isn’t as bouncy or padded as other options, like rubber or silica sand.
- Rubber: commonly used for its elasticity and easy installation — however, rubber infill does absorb heat and emit dust when trod upon.
- Walnut Shell: an organic infill option, walnut shell has cooling properties and minimal negative environmental impact — it may pose an allergen risk, however.
- Durafill: often regarded as the best (though most expensive) infill option, Durafill is composed of rounded quartz core and offers cool, antimicrobial coverage — great for any application, and certainly for larger, more active athletic fields.
The Budd Group Difference
With so many artificial turf infill options available, it can be hard to make a choice. That’s why we enjoy being a part of the decision-making process as well as the installation and maintenance processes. Best of all, our building maintenance, janitorial, and landscaping solutions are all customizable so we can meet every client’s specific needs. If your facility needs a partner to install, replace, or keep up its artificial turf, look no further than The Budd Group
