The use of artificial grass has increased a lot nowadays. People are installing artificial grass in their homes, playgrounds and parks. Infill materials are used in this. Artificial turf infill materials provide strength and protection to artificial grass.
There are many types of infill materials and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to know about this topic in detail. Because choosing the right infill material makes artificial grass last longer. It also remains safe and comfortable. It is a great option for children to play and for adults to relax.
Advantages of rubber crumb infill
Rubber crumb is one of the most common artificial turf infill materials. It is made from old tires. Its biggest advantage is its cost. It is very cheap. Also makes the grass soft and comfortable. Players get less hurt when jumping and falling. Rubber crumb drains water well. This makes the field dry quickly after rain. It lasts a long time and is easily available. It is a good option for playgrounds.
Disadvantages of rubber crumb infill
Rubber crumb also has some disadvantages. The biggest disadvantage is its smell. It smells very bad on hot days. It contains zinc and other harmful substances. Which can get into the soil and water. Rubber crumb in artificial turf infill materials gets very hot in summer. This makes it difficult to play. It can also get washed away with rainwater.
Advantages of Silica Sand Infill
Silica sand is a natural artificial turf infill material. It is extracted from quarries. It helps keep the grass fibers straight. This makes the grass look good for a longer time. Silica sand is very good at water drainage. Water drains quickly after rain. It is cheap and easily available. In summer, it does not get as hot as rubber crumb.
Disadvantages of Silica Sand Infill
Silica sand also has some disadvantages. It is very heavy and difficult to lay. It hardens over time. This makes the grass less soft. Silica sand in artificial turf infill materials gives less protection to the players. There is a high risk of injury if it falls. It creates dust that can cause breathing problems. Silica sand contains silica particles.
Advantages of Organic Infill
Organic infills are made from natural materials. Such as cork, coconut shells and pine wood chips. These artificial turf infill materials are environmentally friendly. They do not contain any harmful chemicals. Organic infills heat up less in summer. They do not have any odor.
Disadvantages of Organic Infill
Organic infills also have some disadvantages. They are more expensive than other artificial turf infill materials. It has a tendenacy to rot over time and have to be replaced. They may have insects and mold. They are light in weight and can fly in the air. Organic infills have slow water drainage. Grass can remain wet after rain.
Advantages of synthetic infills
Synthetic infills are made of man-made materials. These include mixtures of plastic and rubber. These artificial turf infill materials last a long time and do not deteriorate. Synthetic infills have good water drainage. They are lightweight and easy to lay and give a good appearance to artificial grass.
Disadvantages of synthetic infill
Synthetic infills have some disadvantages. They are more expensive. Often more expensive than other artificial turf infill materials. They can heat up in summer. They contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. Synthetic infills are difficult to dispose of.
Advantages of composite infills
Composite infills are made from a mixture of two or more materials. Such as rubber and sand or cork and rubber. These artificial turf infill materials offer the advantages of individual materials. Composite infills make the grass soft and comfortable. Provide good protection to players. They have good water drainage.
Disadvantages of composite infills
Composite infills have some disadvantages. They are costly. Sometimes more expensive than other artificial turf infill materials. They are difficult to manufacture and lay. They require specialist work. Different materials degrade at different rates. This can cause their performance to change over time.
How to choose infill material?
It is important to choose the right artificial turf infill materials. For this, some things should be kept in mind. The first thing is the use of artificial grass. If the grass is for the playground then rubber crumb or mixed infill is good. If it is for home then organic or synthetic infill is good. The second thing is the budget. Rubber crumb and silica sand are cheap.
