I often get asked about artificial turf infill. What is it? Why is it important? And what should I know about different types? Think about this way. When someone’s building a new home or office building, most people just kind of intuitively understand the importance of a solid foundation. Choosing the wrong materials at this point in the process can be catastrophic, right? Over time, an unstable or ill-made foundation makes the house less stable, less safe, and – quite honestly – less pleasing to look at and live in.
Well, it’s the same for artificial turf infill, which is like a foundational layer for your turf. And the choice of infill material is crucial for your artificial turf’s appearance, foot-feel, performance, safety, and long-term resilience. It’s a serious consideration, so we’re taking a serious look at two common infill options: silica sand and Envirofill. What are they? Why are they important? How are they different? And ultimately, which is better. I’ve done the homework, so you can make a fully-informed choice for your lawn, pet, playground, or sports space. Here we go!
Importance of Artificial Turf Infill
So, you might be asking, “What exactly does infill do?” It’s an important question. Infill actually serves several crucial roles for your lawn, playground, or sporting space. It weights down the turf, helping prevent any unwanted wrinkling or movement. It also helps maintain that lush, natural appearance by keeping the blades standing upright. No one wants that matted carpet look.
From a daily-use standpoint, artificial turf infill provides stability and cushioning for those walking on it. This makes the stepping experience more comfortable, but also helps from a safety standpoint. And from a long-term perspective, your artificial turf’s longevity is improved because the infill helps protect the turf backing from UV damage while also allowing for proper drainage.
Without infill, your beautiful new artificial lawn would quickly become a sad, flat pancake. The blades would lay down, the surface would feel hard and unnatural, and you’d be looking at premature wear and tear. No bueno.
But with the right infill evenly distributed throughout the turf, you can maintain that fresh-off-the-installation look and feel for years to come. The key is choosing an infill that matches your specific needs.
Understanding Different Types of Infill
These days, you’ve got options when it comes to infill. The two most common choices are silica sand and Envirofill. Let’s break ’em down:
Silica Sand Infill
Silica sand is like the trusty old pickup truck of infill. It’s basic, affordable, and gets the job done. This stuff is made from tiny quartz granules that have been broken down by good ol’ Mother Nature. When brushed into artificial turf, silica sand infill:
- Provides decent drainage
- Offers stability to keep grass blades upright
- Is widely available and easy on the wallet
But as with any budget option, there are some trade-offs. Silica sand infill:
- Can be dusty, especially during installation
- Compacts more easily over time
- Retains odors from pet waste
- Gets very hot in direct sun
- Has angular edges that may be abrasive
- Contains silica dust, a known carcinogen
So while the price tag may be tempting, silica sand isn’t always the best long-term bet for your artificial turf infill choice. It’s great for low-traffic, pet-free areas, but maintenance and replacement can cause some headaches down the line.
Envirofill Infill
If silica sand is the pickup truck, Envirofill is the luxury SUV of infill. This stuff is like the crème de la crème of infill options. It starts with rounded quartz sand, which is then treated with antimicrobial protection. Fancy, right? This high-tech combo gives Envirofill some serious perks:
- Resists compaction for lasting performance
- Fights bacteria growth to minimize odors
- Stays cooler in high temperatures
- Provides excellent drainage
- Is non-toxic and safe for people and pets
- Comes in a natural green color
- Backed by a 16-year warranty
Minimizing odors is important for any artificial turf usage, but it’s an absolute game-changer for homes with dogs. It stops pet urine odors in their tracks by preventing the bacterial buildup that causes those nasty smells. With Envirofill, you can keep your lawn looking and smelling fresh as a daisy.
Of course, all those bells and whistles come at a cost. Envirofill is pricier than basic silica sand. But for many turf owners, the long-term benefits are well worth the investment. It’s like buying a high-quality mattress – you spend a third of your life on it, so it pays to invest in the good stuff! Learn More: Envirofill
Infill Considerations for Climate and Weather Conditions
Another factor to consider when choosing a turf infill is your local climate. If you’re in an area with scorching summers, Envirofill is a no-brainer. Its rounded shape and antimicrobial coating help it stay up to 50°F cooler than crumb rubber and 20°F cooler than silica sand. Your bare feet will thank you!
In rainy or humid regions, Envirofill’s superior drainage really shines. The coated granules shed moisture faster than raw silica sand, helping your turf dry out quickly after a downpour. This prevents the growth of mold, mildew, and other funky stuff that can take over damp artificial grass.
Durability and Longevity Comparison for Your Artificial Turf
Over time, any artificial turf infill will slowly degrade from exposure to the elements and foot traffic. But Envirofill is built to last. Its rounded shape resists compaction, so your turf stays plush and bouncy for years.
Plus, that acrylic coating is no joke – it’s warrantied to stay put on at least 70% of the Envirofill for a whopping 16 years. Silica sand just can’t compete with that kind of staying power.
Infill Maintenance and Cleaning Requirements
No matter which infill you choose, some basic upkeep is needed to keep your lawn looking its best. Brushing or raking the turf fibers helps fluff them back up and redistribute the infill evenly.
Any debris like leaves, twigs, and pet waste should be promptly removed to prevent matting and odors. An occasional rinse with the hose will help wash away dust, pollen, and other small particles.
But here’s where Envirofill has a leg up – its antimicrobial properties mean less frequent cleaning to control odors. The Microban coating is always working behind the scenes to stop bacteria in its tracks, even between turf cleanings.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
For the eco-conscious among us, Envirofill has some impressive green cred. Its durability means it can often be reused in multiple turf installations over its lifespan. Instead of being tossed in a landfill, old Envirofill can be cleaned up and used again in a new lawn.
Envirofill is also non-toxic and free of heavy metals, so it won’t leach any nasties into the soil or water. It’s even exempt from California’s Prop 65 labeling requirements for carcinogenic chemicals.
Silica sand, on the other hand, is a finite resource that has to be continually mined to meet demand. The dust it creates is a known health hazard for both installers and users. From a sustainability standpoint, Envirofill is the clear winner.
Cost Analysis and Budget Considerations of Turf Infill Options
I won’t sugarcoat it – Envirofill does have a higher price tag than silica sand upfront. It can cost up to 3 times more per square foot of turf. For very large installations, that can add up quickly.
But it’s important to look at the big picture. The longer lifespan, reusability, and lower maintenance needs of Envirofill can help offset that initial cost. And avoiding the hassle of odors, dust, and compaction? Priceless.
Silica sand may be the cheapest option out of the gate, but it requires more frequent replacement and just doesn’t perform as well in the long run. Weigh the short-term savings against the long-term costs and headaches. Calculate your savings: Artificial Turf Savings Calculator.
So, the Results?
With all the pros, cons, and considerations we’ve discussed about sand vs Envirofill for your artificial turf infill, the reality is that you will have to make the decision that’s best for your goals. I’d always personally recommend Envirofill for most applications. It just gives a peace-of-mind, knowing that the investment will pay out year after year. But at Artificial Turf Supply, we know every decision is different, with its own unique challenges. So if you find yourself unsure, explore our website or give us a call at (877) 573-5460.
Our team of experts are eager to answer all the questions, and help you with all your artificial turf questions and needs.
Get a free quote today!
