How Artificial Turf Has Improved Through the Years
Artificial turf started out as a dense, short-fiber nylon product that resembled carpet. Since its inception, it has gone through many changes. Today’s artificial turf looks more natural, is durable, and includes higher-quality infill. Here’s how it has improved over the years:
A Brief History
In 1966, the Astrodome in Texas installed the first known application of artificial turf. The intent was to create a surface that could withstand high traffic volumes while allowing for a consistent playing surface. The turf was also used to support a multi-use function for stadiums, allowing for movable seating for concerts or sporting events.
A second-generation turf was created in the mid-seventies, which included longer fibers and the installation of a shock-absorbing pad underneath the carpet-like material. The pile was filled with silica sand to help the fibers stand up straight. This turf was not as widely used throughout the United States, but it paved the way for the next generation.
Modern Artificial Turf
Today’s artificial turf continues to use infill, but it now consists of rubber crumbs or a combination of rubber and silica sand. Modern turf components also include a stable and compacted base layer, a shock-absorbing pad of various thicknesses if required, and a strong backing for the attachment of the pile fibers. Fibers in some turf products may be dense and thick. This type tends to resist wear and tear better and can be beneficial in how a ball rolls across the surface, making it useful for many sporting applications. Slit film fibers look more blade-like and are produced in sheets, cut into strips, and then slit to create a natural, grasslike appearance. They are twisted together and stitched or tufted into the backing for a secure hold. This type tends to be applied to residential or community areas that don’t receive heavy traffic and desire a more natural look.
Improvements You Can Identify
Goat Turf provides access to the many benefits of modern, improved artificial turf. We stock and supply products for every part of an artificial turf project in our 20,000-square-foot warehouse. The improvements have addressed aspects such as aesthetics, drainage, durability, safety, and environmental concerns.
Better Drainage
Advancements to turf backing designs have increased water’s ability to drain through the fibers more quickly. The water can get into the base layer and soil more effectively without getting clogged and pooling on the surface. This means you can experience less warping and deterioration of the turf over time. With our product, SYNLawn, you can also benefit from an EnviroLoc+ knit backing system that is made with tiny holes to assist with even more efficient drainage.
Quality Infill
At Goat Turf, we offer Envirofill as an infill option for artificial turf applications. Envirofill is a combination of rounded silica sand and thermoplastic elastomers. This makes our infill less toxic than others, odorless, and free of harmful chemicals. Envirofill uses a low-energy manufacturing process and contains antimicrobial properties to prevent mold and bacteria growth. It is also heat resistant due to its lighter color and larger size, which allows for better air circulation.
Enhanced Health and Safety
Goat Turf’s products have odor-absorbing and disease-resistant properties, providing a safe area for children and pets to play. The turf is allergy-resistant and is designed to withstand the growth of algae, mold, mildew, and fungi. You can also include a StatBlock feature to reduce the risk of static buildup, which is a fire safety measure. The turf is slip-resistant and feels soft on bare feet and pet paws.
Addressed Environmental Concerns
Natural grass lawns require regular watering, pest control, and weed interventions to help maintain their health and appearance. Installing artificial turf reduces water use and eliminates the need for harmful pesticides. Quality turf has also transitioned to using more bio-based polymers rather than petroleum-based polymers, enhancing sustainable practices. Goat Turf’s products use plant-based materials like soy, making them more recyclable and eco-friendly.
Increased Durability
With the advancements to fibers and the overall backing system design, modern artificial turf is able to last longer than the previous two generations and is more resistant to stress from weather and traffic. The backing retains its structural integrity and prevents deformations or bubbling. It responds to the elements in a similar way as natural grass. With the Enviroloc+ system’s efficient draining, the fibers and backing can remain stable over time. SYNLawn also contains thermal protection properties with its reflective capacity improvements, minimizing the chances of overheating. This helps keep the turf looking greener for longer and reduces discoloration.
Find Quality Artificial Turf at Goat Turf
Goat Turf is a wholesale turf supplier that carries an extensive selection of turf-related products in our warehouse. We can supply the products, distribute everything you need, and install the project. For assistance in commercial or residential artificial turf projects, contact our team.