Choosing the right infill is not only about the look and feel but, most importantly, about the performance of your artificial grass.
The material that fills the space between the turf blades of artificial turf surfaces also functions as the “ballast,” which aids with stability and blade bounce back. It’s also one of the cheapest infill materials available. If purchasing Silica Sand Landscaping, it is important that the buyers select clean, graded sand rather than common, “bagged” builder’s sand to properly spread.
Why Choose silica sand infill?
Silica sand is cheap and readily available and is often used for standard lawn areas and general landscaping. It can help grass blades remain upright in normal traffic and, when wet, will sometimes make infill compact. Under direct sunlight, sand will store heat. It has no antimicrobial benefit, nor does it prevent odour when the area is used for pets.
What are silica sand suppliers offering?
Available with landscape, sports or washed specification and specifically screened, sand is available with different ranges in grain size, clarity and how it is packed. Prices will vary with bag size and specification, from a very low amount. Check that the correct product is shipped before ordering from any Silica Sand suppliers. This specification should correspond with infill depth or volume per m² recommended by the turf manufacturer.
What is the Difference Between Coated Sand and Silica Sand?
Coated sand such as Envirofill has spherical quartz particles and uses a polymer coating. Some also have an antimicrobial agent incorporated and help reduce the ability to compress. The particles also help reduce compaction among turf blades and may therefore be ideal for houses with young children or pets where appearance and odour management are key priorities. Coated sand, however, generally proves to be more costly than its uncoated relative.
Is Rubber Infill better for Sports Areas?
SBR rubber granules have much more cushion than sand and will distribute impact, making it suitable for sports surfaces subject to high-volume foot traffic and frequent falling. Rubber would also increase the resilience of the surface during high activity. Silica Sand suppliers Black rubber may also absorb excessive heat when in direct sunlight; consideration may be given for hot countries and/or barefoot circulation areas.
What makes people select zeolite?
Zeolite is composed of natural volcanic minerals and has a porous construction that will be used to trap and neutralise ammonia from pet urine. This is desirable for artificially turfing areas where pets will frequently defecate or urinate; it will also aid in cooling the ground through evaporation. A majority of installations use both zeolite in combination with sand for stability alongside pet-friendly capabilities.
Does Infill influence how a turf needs to be cared for?
Yes, it does! The infill influences how a turf needs brushing, and its surface characteristics are altered, as is its drainage quality. The sand needs constant brushing; the pet areas often require rinsing down and application of deodoriser. While coated sand has reduced odour, it is the zeolite itself that traps ammonia.
Can various infills be combined?
Yes, some turf systems utilise combinations of infill materials. Installers can blend silica sand with zeolite for dog areas. The appropriate blend depends on the specific turf system and the regional environment, and on controlled-rate application.
What Infills will serve your purpose best?
The best infill depends on how the turf will be used. Standard silica sand works for all-around landscaping in many homes where there’s concern about usability, stability and blade support. Coated sand gives your grass a superior defence against compaction and works for children or dog areas; however, rubber can be suitable for highly physical sports purposes. Zeolite can work best in all dog areas as it helps control the odour caused by dogs in grass.
Climate, amount of traffic, animals and pets (if any), turf pile height, drainage requirements and the level of maintenance needed should also be thought of when deciding if to use Silica Sand Landscaping. You should always follow advice given by the turf supplier about appropriate infill and required volume.
For on-point advice when choosing Silica Landscaping and to book your services with Artificial Grass Brisbane, give us a call for reasonable rates for your requirements.
