Artificial grass is an enormously popular surface in schools due to its durability, low maintenance and great looks. We’re 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 or artificial grass questions you have in mind or 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. We use rubber particles in some MUGA variations. Then we brush infill 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 we don’t use infill 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?
We use specialist fibreglass tape and a two-part epoxy resin adhesive to join the grass together. Then we cover the tape in adhesive and press down both edges of the two artificial grass lengths over it and weight it down until the adhesive has hardened. The piles of each length are entwined so the join is not visible. Our team take care 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 neglected. These are 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 easily 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 You Install Artificial Grass on a slope?
Yes, we can install artificial grass 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, we pin all edges, and aldo glue open edges over which children access the area to a concrete fillet for extra strength due to the higher foot traffic. Next we install further pins over the grass area if it slopes or for any unique reason. The pile and sand infill cover the pin heads 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. Punched small holes in the artificial grass backing 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.
Get in touch if you have any more questions about artificial grass or any of our other surfaces.
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