When choosing the best quality turf, one factor to consider is flammability. The good news is that artificial turf is not flammable. However, artificial turf can melt when exposed to extremely high temperatures.
In Las Vegas, the highest average recorded temperature can shoot up to 116 degrees Fahrenheit. This can make your turf hot and feel uncomfortable during summer. But a surface temperature of 175 – 200 degrees Fahrenheit could melt and decolorize your turf.
The Components of a High-Quality Artificial Turf
Artificial turfs are made of high-quality synthetic fibers that are non-flammable. They undergo fire risk assessments upon manufacturing.
High-quality turfs also undergo fire risk testing such as Smoke Density Chamber Test and Radiant Floor Panel Test to ensure fire resistance and promote consumer safety.
Additionally, sand as an infill material is not only perfect because they give off a smooth surface. Sand has a property that gives it the ability to act as a fire extinguisher. The fear of your turf catching fire will not be a problem especially when you have the best quality installer and the right filling material used.
What Causes Artificial Turf to Melt & How to Manage
A lot of homeowners have shifted from natural grass to artificial turf. It’s because they require little to no maintenance while adding curb appeal to your yard. However, artificial turf has a tendency to melt when exposed to extreme heat. Keep in mind that damaged grass will not look good and could add to the cost of maintenance.
Direct UV Rays
Installing artificial turf in an open yard adds color and vibrance to the outdoor space. Synthetic turfs that are tested for UV resistance won’t create as much damage in terms of discoloration over those that aren’t.
UV rays and extreme heat can cause turf fibers to melt, especially if they are installed directly under the sun’s heat. Make sure to install awnings or shed in an open area just above your synthetic grass to protect them from direct heat.
Additionally, adding some trees to the borders of your lawn not only adds aesthetics. It’s a good way of limiting the heat that is absorbed by your lawn.
Reflective Surfaces
One of the most common causes of turf damage is extreme heat caused by reflective surfaces. Reflected heat from window surfaces can even surpass the turf’s melting point, that is, 175-200 degrees Fahrenheit. This happens when you install your synthetic grass adjacent to your Low-E windows.
When the sun is shining brightly, these window glasses will not absorb the heat but instead, bounce off and transfer to an adjacent object, in this case, your lawn. Additionally, heat that is transferred to your lawn is intensified by the reflective surface. As a result, your precious turf can easily get melted and deformed.
If you’re fortunate enough to install your lawn a few feet away from your Low-E windows, then that won’t be a problem.
Burning Coal
Grilling and BBQ are sure fun ways to bond with your family and friends. But if you are not careful enough to prevent stray embers from reaching through your synthetic grass, your party might end up being a disaster. Burning coal could totally wreck and damage a great deal of your grass if left unnoticed.
The only way to avoid this from happening is to situate your grill as far as possible from where your turf is. However, if your space is small, or if your lawn is covered entirely by artificial grass, make sure to provide a suitable covering or apron to your grill to prevent unwanted fire residues from flying to your grass.
It also helps to clean and keep your grill in its proper place after using them.
Cigarette Butts
Aside from the dangers it can cause to your health, lit cigarette butts can damage your artificial turf. They can melt your synthetic grass and leave unpleasant holes and patches on them.
It’s recommended that you have a smoking area in your house that is free from hazards and far from your synthetic grass altogether.
Open Flames and Outdoor Firepits
Outdoor firepits are hardscape ideas that beautify your homes. They also increase functionality in the outdoor space, keeping them more livable if not a favorite spot.
However, they may be a concern if installed very near your artificial grass. Uncovered firepit areas could send fire residue and smoke that could burn and damage your turf. Fire is often the culprit as to why turfs get burned or melted.
It’s advisable not to build an open firepit if you have artificial turf installed in your yard. There are a lot of Las Vegas outdoor firepit ideas that are way more secure and aesthetically pleasing. Artificial turf installation is an investment, therefore extra caution must be taken to keep them in their pristine condition.
Conclusion
It is a relief to know that artificial turfs are non-flammable and fire-resistant. Artificial Turf is quite an investment that must be preserved as they add value to your home.
However, like any other structure, they can get damaged over time especially if poorly maintained. In the case of artificial turf, damage can be in the form of melting which could lead to discoloration and deformity.
To avoid this problem, install your turf in the right place and away from extreme heat. Also, take extra careful when dealing with fire. You don’t want your lawn to look brown or curling up because of recklessness. Damaged turf is hard to fix and the only remedy is to replace it with new ones.
As they say, prevention is better than cure. Avoid incurring additional costs and extra work in the maintenance of your synthetic grass. Start with choosing the best quality artificial turf material and take extra measures to keep them in their best condition.