Synthetic Turf 101
Posted by Matt Garrabrants on
The buzz about the artificial grass seems to be never ending. There has been a massive explosion when it comes to the embracing of fake grass in homes and commercial establishments. You will find the fake turf installed in homes, shopping malls, playgrounds, sports arenas and gardens. The latter is usually considered the last place to install fake grass but you will find many gardens actually having the installation.
Manufacturing and Installation
Synthetic turf is made from a number of materials such as polyester, nylon and polypropylene. The manufacturing of artificial turf is a simple process. It is simple enough that a large number of companies have started taking up the job and this has resulted in a significant diversity of fake turf. Despite the variety of products available, there are some constants in the industry. You will find the fake grass to be emulating its natural counterpart in every aspect, be it color, texture or shape. This makes it an ideal replacement material and a perfect alternative to natural grass.
Another unique aspect of synthetic turf is that it comes in a carpet-like structure. This makes for an easier installation of synthetic grass, where you simply have to affix it to the ground with the help of clips, nails or adhesives. A gravel bed is also required so as to provide a strong base to the fake turf. Another type of fake grass comes in the form of small pieces that first need to be joined together before affixing to the ground.
Maintenance
There is confusion in some minds about the maintenance of fake turf where there is a myth that it is a long and expensive undertaking. Maintenance of artificial turf should not take longer than a few hours irrespective of the type and make of it. There is no major maintenance procedure required in the first place as fake turf can stay put for long. The only thing you will need is to water the fake grass where you have to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Watering is necessary as otherwise fake grass might die. It will not be the regular wilting process as you see in natural grass. Fake turf wilting is a long process where the top edges lose their color and the grass bear a dry look.
The good thing about fake grass is that it can be easily redeemed and repaired. You can do that by watering it at least once a week and keeping the debris at bay. Vacuuming is a good way of cleaning the grass of debris and impurities. Watering will remove the pollutants and keep the fake turf in a pristine form. Just make sure that you have provided ample drainage pipes so as to carry away the water from the turf.
Synthetic turf can last for a year or two as long as you are following the maintenance instructions. It will also remove the hassle of planting and replanting the natural grass as it tends to wilt every other week, especially during hot and dry season.
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