If you are tired of yard work but still desire that lush, fresh-cut look for your South Florida lawn, why not go with artificial turf? This easy-to-maintain turf will instantly brighten up your property without the hassle that natural grass requires.
Once you’re ready to install your new artificial turf, one of the most important questions is: what is the best infill for artificial turf? This choice of infill will determine the quality of your turf, how hot it gets, and how safe it is for pets and children. Big Dogs Artificial Turf shares more below to help you make an informed decision.
Are you looking for artificial grass installation services? Do you already have artificial grass and need an infill service? Contact Big Dogs Artificial Turf today, call 561-556-5018.
What Is Artificial Turf Infill?
The material between the fibers of your artificial grass is called artificial turf infill, and it keeps these fibers upright to give your lawn a lush, well-cared-for look. The infill also prevents breakage and supports the backing of the artificial lawn to help the area maintain its shape. Since artificial turf can’t grow back like your property’s natural grass, its longevity depends almost entirely on you choosing the perfect infill.
Types of Infill for Artificial Turf
Before you settle on a type of artificial turf infill, it’s helpful to understand the advantages and drawbacks of each option. Here’s a quick overview from the professionals at Big Dogs Artificial Turf:
Silica Sand:
Best Infill Choice in Florida For Properties Without Dogs.
Silica sand adapts to many surfaces, has optimal drainage, and minimizes heat absorption. One drawback is that the particles that make up silica sand are abrasive, so they may clump together and harden over time. However, silica sand is one of the most economical choices for synthetic turf infill for homes without dogs.
Antibacterial-Coated Sand:
Best for Homes With Children or Small Pets.
Antibacterial-coated sand is more expensive than silica sand because it kills bacteria. It’s an excellent choice if you have pets or children on the property, as it also remains cool under sunlight and resists liquids. OptiFILL and Envirofill are great antibacterial-coated infill options.
OptiFILL:
OptiFILL is Florida’s Best Infill For Artificial Turf If You Have Dogs.
OptiFILL is a revolutionary, eco-friendly infill for artificial turf. Made from natural silica sand, it’s non-toxic, odor-resistant, and antimicrobial. With advanced UV and weather resistance, it’s designed to last longer than competitors. OptiFILL is also reusable, reducing your carbon footprint, and free from harmful chemicals like phthalates and lead. Perfect for a safe, sustainable lawn.
Envirofill:
Premium Infill Alternative For Artificial Turf If You Have Dogs.
Envirofill is another infill product that effectively prevents bacterial growth. This rounded quartz sand has a Microban coating to resist mold and mildew growth and limit odors. The green granules blend into the synthetic grass well.
ZeoFill:
Best For Properties With Pets Outside of Florida.
ZeoFill is an organic product that prevents pet odors fairly well. It can retain water better than many other infill options, which keeps the surface cool. As a very fine material, it sometimes forms a film on top of your artificial grass (placing another type of infill on top) can easily prevent this issue.
Crumb Rubber:
Best For Sports Complexes & Cool Weather.
Crumb rubber’s soft, bouncy texture likens it to natural grass, even though it is effectively ground-up tires. It adds volume and is easy to install. However, crumb rubber gets hot, so it’s not ideal for Florida’s summers.
Cork:
Best for Sports Fields or Playgrounds With Foot Traffic.
Cork infill offers a bounciness ideal for sports venues and playgrounds. It provides energy absorption that allows it to regain its shape upon impact quickly.
How To Choose The Best Artificial Turf Infill for Your Property
So, what would be the best infill for artificial turf within your South Florida home or commercial property?
Do Children or Pets Use the Turf?
If you have children or pets on your property, prioritize odor-reducing and antibacterial for your artificial turf infill. OptiFILL, Envirofill, ZeoFill, and other antibacterial-coated sand are good options. In Florida, OptiFILL is the optimal choice for most artificial grass installers.
Does Your Turf Need Optimal Drainage?
Poor drainage leads to long-term problems, such as erosion and foundation issues. You can combat this with an infill that offers optimal drainage, such as silica sand or ZeoFill.
What Type of Property Do You Have?
Is the type of property you own residential or commercial in nature? Heavier infills handle commercial properties better. You’ll want to stay away from slippery infills for venues, though.
As for residential properties, Florida installers like Big Dogs Artificial Turf are unlikely to install crumb rubber.
Let the Experts Help You Decide on the Best Infill for Your Artificial Turf
Generally, silica sand is the best infill for homes without dogs, while OptiFILL, Envirofill and ZeoFill suit pets better. Why not let our team of experts help you choose the best infill for artificial turf at your Florida location?
Big Dogs Artificial Turf installation and cleaning service covers communities across Palm Beach County in South Florida. Contact us today at 561-556-5018 for a free estimate!
