Your Artificial Grass Questions Answered
Artificial grass is an enormously popular surface in schools due to its durability, low maintenance and great looks. We're always being asked questions about Artificial Grass, so we thought we'd answer a few of the regulars in this post. If you can't find the information you need, please ask.
Why is Sand spread over the Artificial Grass?
Playcubed use specialist kiln dried sand, unique for its rounded particles, as an infill. Rubber particles are used in some MUGA variations. The infill is brushed into the Artificial Grass pile.
Infill is important for several reasons. Firstly, it serves to keep the grass pile upright, thus ensuring the grass is always looking its best. If infill is not used the grass will soon lie flat after use, which does not look attractive.
Secondly, the infill extends the lifespan of the grass. This is because the infill prevents the grass blades from constantly rubbing with the grass backing during play, which over time will result in wear. For this purpose, we typically install extra infill to areas that will see a lot of use,
The infill also provides significant weight, assisting in holding the artificial grass down and ensuring it lies tight will the base surface below.
The infill also acts as a minor shock absorbent. Other benefits include improved resistance from vandalism and fire.
How do you join the Artificial Grass together?
Specialist fibreglass tape and a two-part epoxy resin adhesive is used to join the grass together. The tape is covered in adhesive and both edges of the two artificial grass lengths are pressed down over it and weighted until the adhesive has hardened. The piles of each length are then entwined so the join is not visible. Care is taken to ensure joined lengths of grass always have the same pile direction.
Will weeds grow on the Artificial Grass?
Playcubed always install a geo-textile membrane over the area, and one of its purposes is to act as a weed repellent. The backing of the artificial grass is also sufficiently strong to withstand weeds.
As a general rule, the activity and movement on the surface as children use it does not allow weeds time to form.
However, over time weeds may grow around the perimeter of the area if it is neglected. These can be removed and disposed of.
Keeping the turf structure free of organic build up is also important, as allowing it to accumulate will create a hydroponic environment for the weeds to root. In this event the roots will be very shallow and can easily be brushed out.
However, sticking to our 5-point maintenance guide will mean you never have to spend much time on the weeds, as you’ll always be one step ahead!
Can Artificial Grass be installed on a slope?
Yes, artificial grass can be installed on slopes or over mounds. We normally give bespoke advice on this during a visit to your school, as every slope is different! Arrange your free site visit with a playground adviser.
What holds down the Artificial Grass?
The kiln dried sand infill is the main weight holding down artificial grass. In addition, all edges are pinned, and open edges over which children access the area also are glued to a concrete fillet for extra strength due to the higher foot traffic. Further pins are installed over the grass area if it is sloped or for any unique reason. Pin heads are covered by the pile and sand infill, and are not noticeable or visible.
We are absolutely confident in our products and workmanship, and guarantee the grass for 6 years.
How will the Artificial Grass cope with rain and flooding?
Artificial Grass is permeable, so rain water runs straight through it. Small holes are punched into the artificial grass backing to allow the water to drain easily through to the underlayer. The underlayer consists of extremely permeable materials such as crushed rubble, gravel or a mix of minerals. The grass backing is also ridged to enable water to easily channel beneath it, avoiding trapped water.
If you have any further questions on Artificial Grass, please ask them on 01322 279799, or email [email protected].