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Know Your Turf: A Guide to the Types of Artificial Turfs and Their Uses on Sports Fields

If you have a sports facility, you have more options than regular grass for your playing surfaces. No, we’re not talking about unnatural-looking grass either. Nowadays, artificial grass closely resembles and feels like the real thing too.

You can choose from three types of turf. Which one is best for you? Keep reading to find you.

Three Types of Turf

There are three types of artificial grass: polyethylene, polyethylene, and nylon. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks. Here’s an in-depth look at what they have to offer:

Polyethylene Turf

Also known as field turf, professional sports facilities often use polyethylene turf.

Compared to the other turf options, this one resembles grass the most. Polyethylene turf can be applied to landscape edging, outdoor play areas, and lawns.

So, if you want to obtain the aesthetic of real grass, polyethylene turf is the best option. This turf type is also low maintenance and doesn’t require much raking.

Polyethylene turf is much softer than the other artificial grass fibers. Therefore, it won’t cause rug burns or other skin irritations.

A downside to polyethylene artificial grass is that it’s more expensive than other turf options.

Nylon Turf

Nylon was one of the first materials used for artificial grass. This material can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making it perfect for areas like playgrounds.

Not only can it withstand high traffic, but it can handle heavyweight and heat without changing its shape or condition.

Another reason why nylon turf is preferred is that the artificial grass blades stand taller and more upright than other types. Additionally, nylon turf can absorb liquid — making them great for personal or pet areas.

While nylon turf is durable, its fibers are stiffer than other options. Some may even use this in conjunction with polyethylene turf for added strength.

Polypropylene Turf

If you’re looking for a cheaper artificial grass option, go for polypropylene turf. Unlike nylon grass, this type of turf has a low-melting poting and wears very quickly.

Out of the types of turf types, polypropylene doesn’t last as long. Also, this type of artificial grass doesn’t absorb water well.

Polypropylene turf is ideal for those on a budget who want artificial grass for a small area with low activity.

It isn’t recommended for areas designated for high impact sports like football and soccer — polypropylene is ideal for golf putting green.

How to Maintain Artificial Turf

The benefit of artificial turf is that it’s easier to maintain than natural grass. However, you do need to take measures to keep your artificial turf in shape. Here are some maintenance tips to help you take care of your turf:

  • For mild stains, remove with a mild detergent
  • Rinse turf regularly with cold water
  • Never use heat on artificial turf
  • Brush grass against the grain
  • Remove odors with an enzyme cleaner

What Turf Type Will You Choose?

Hopefully, this guide on the types of turf will help you narrow your decision. Regardless of the project or purpose, artificial turf is a wise investment.

Follow our blog to learn everything you need to know about artificial grass.