Why Use Silica Sand For Artificial Grass?
Emily Greenfield
April 4, 2022
Why Use Silica Sand For Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass is a fantastic addition to any backyard. It looks great and improves curb appeal while minimizing needed maintenance.
If you want artificial grass to live up to the expectations, it will require infill.
This is a material you place between the blades to avoid wrinkling. Silica sand has become a popular infill choice, but is it a smart decision for your artificial turf? Check out this guide and learn everything about using silica sand for artificial grass!
What Is Silica Sand?
Silica sand is an infill you’ll often see in artificial turf setups. The material resembles sand, but it’s made of silica. While it’s necessary to stick to the instructions, this sand is perfectly safe to use with artificial grass. Silica will assist in keeping the blades upright and ensure there’s no wrinkling.
Why Should You Use Silica Sand for Turf
Even if you come across artificial grass that “doesn’t need infill,” it’s still smart to use it. The infill will extend the turf’s longevity, which saves money in the long run. Now, let’s check out why you should choose silica sand for turf setups!
It Is Cost-Effective and Durable
The market offers three infill choices for artificial grass: crumb rubber, organic, silica sand. Out of these three options, silicon hand is the most affordable. You’ll get it at the lowest price, but that doesn’t compromise its durability. Silica will keep your artificial turf flawless for long to deliver the best value for money!
Made of Non-Toxic Materials
You often hear that silica is dangerous for your health. But the truth is you just need to be careful when installing silica sand infill. It will require wearing safety protection to keep you from inhaling the material. This material is safe as long as you don’t breathe in the silica dust.
Furthermore, this sand comes from natural materials. Silica is a substance derived from quartz, and you receive grains of its sand in the package. The crucial thing is that a premium manufacturer won’t add any additives. Other sand types could contain chemicals such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) that could harm people and animals, which makes silica a safer choice.
Provides UV Protection for Turf Backing
Sunlight is healthy to some extent, but long exposure to UV rays can be harmful. That’s true for human skin, but also any other surface. For example, if you expose a painted wall to ultraviolet rays, it will start fading quickly.
Artificial grass can also suffer under UV rays, but silica can help minimize this damage. This infill can resist UV rays well, which maintains the optimal condition of the turf packing.
Safer Than Crumb Rubber Infill
Crumb rubber is a frequent infill choice for artificial soil. People believe it’s safer than silicon, but crushed rubber contains dangerous materials. Manufacturers make it from rubber tires, which often contain oils, zinc, and black carbon.
Furthermore, crumb rubber often contains PAHs, which are carcinogens even after the compaction. It could be dangerous if you get in touch with the turf, so it’s better to choose silica.
Helps Synthetic Grass Blades Stand Upright
The crucial advantage of silica infill is that it helps blades stand in an optimal position. It contributes to the blade fiber stability. That ensures the turf looks like natural grass and maintains the 3D appearance for longer.
Blades are a common reason why your artificial turf stops looking attractive after a while. If you use silica infill, you will ensure they remain upright longer, even if there’s heavy foot traffic.
Does Artificial Grass Need Infill?
Some manufacturers sell artificial turf, claiming it doesn’t require infill. And while that might be true, the reason why your fake grass needs infill is durability. If you don’t add it to the soil, the turf will lose its initial attractiveness quickly.
You’ll notice the blades don’t stay erect, which ruins the turf’s overall appearance. Even the highest-quality artificial grass material can use infill to extend its longevity.
Silica infill has the role of weighing down the fake grass. That will help maintain the turf’s appearance despite overuse or environmental factors. Of course, if it’s raining heavily, you’ll still need adequate drainage. But silica will assist in ensuring the artificial grass doesn’t ripple in extreme weather conditions. A smart choice of infill and optimal turf installation can even help that pet odor doesn’t become an issue.
How Much Silica Sand Do I Need for Artificial Grass?
It depends on the chosen brand, but the experts recommend adding at least one pound of infill per square foot of fake grass. If you want to use the maximum potential of the infill, you can double the amount and add two pounds per square foot.
Where to Buy Silica Sand for Artificial Grass?
If you are looking for Las Vegas artificial turf, make sure to stick to reputable sellers and brands. You can get top-quality silica infill from local providers.
If you choose the right type of sand infill, it will help extend the overall longevity of your artificial grass. It’s the smartest investment you’ll make because the fake turf will look like new for a long time!
