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Artificial grass; production, laying, maintenance

This artificial turf library explains in detail all aspects of artificial grass, both for private individuals considering artificial turf for their home garden and for professionals, such as municipal landscapers, who are considering installing artificial turf. This site does not contain information on the use of artificial turf for official playing fields due to the specific requirements of these fields.

Landscape gardeners and contractors interested in receiving more information on Royal Grass® and its various uses can contact us directly. Royal Grass® is always looking for new specialist distributors and can provide specific product training.

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Our employees of the customer service will collect the frequently asked questions and post this at our blog.

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Production of artificial turf

Artificial grass is based on a mixture of plastic granules and additives like UV stabilisers and colouring agents. This mixture is heated and pressed through an extruder head under pressure. This process results in the creation of individual artificial grass fibres. The shape of the fibres is determined by the extruder head. Roughly speaking, there are two types of fibres: fibrillated and monofilament.

The mix of synthetic materials used differs per product and supplier and ultimately determines the quality of the end product. After the grass fibres have been made, the blades are reinforced. They are made resistant to strong tractive force and temperature fluctuations between -50 Cº and +50 Cº. The grass fibres are then coiled around large spools (bobbins) and shipped to the various artificial turf manufacturers. A major manufacturer of artificial grass is TenCate in Almelo.

The bobbins are then placed on a machine that is four metres in width, which uses needles to push the blades of grass through a backing. The principle is similar to a sewing machine and the process is called tufting. The type of fibre, fibre height, distance between the needles, etc. determines the appearance of the turf and suitable usages.To secure the grass fibres in the backing, a liquidmixture is added, which is then hardened in an oven. This fixes the fibres. At this point, the grass cover has earned the name artificial turf and is ready for sale and installation.

Production fibers
Bobbin
Tufting machine

Landscape Solutions bv manufactures Royal Grass®. The fibres used are produced exclusively by TenCate for Royal Grass®. Also see About Royal Grass for more information. Royal Grass® offers various types of artificial grass designed specifically for private gardens, public landscaping and playgrounds. Royal Grass® is a patented and protected trademark. The process described above has been used since the introduction of artificial grass in the 1970s.

Landscape Solutions bv has worked together with TenCate to develop a completely new and innovative production process. The greatest advantage of this innovative process is that the artificial grass can be made 100% recyclable. Products from this new production location are only available in limited quantities but, due to pending patent applications, the process used may not be published yet. These sustainable products can be recognised by the e-qual® certification label.

Fibrillated fiber
Fibrillated fiber
monofilament fiber
Monofilament fiber Royal Grass® (with v-shape/backbone)

Artificial turf fibers

Different types of fibres are used for the production of artificial turf. A single stitch with fibres (i.e. the blades of grass) is called a ‘pile’. A pile can consist of a single fibre or several fibres together. Royal Grass® always uses several fibres together and in two different shades of green. This produces a naturally coloured, fuller turf. A high-quality fibre is soft and smooth to the touch, is resilient and has a shape that allows it to stay upright. It is also important that the fibre is wear-resistant and colour-fast. Tip: always inquire about the warranty period on colour fastness.

Fibre materials

The artificial turf fibres are made of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) or polyamide (PA). Polyamide is primarily used as a supporting fibre in the turf and very few artificial turfs are made of 100% polyamide. That is because it is a hard material, produces an unpleasant sound when walked on, and tends to shine.

Polyethylene is a softer and more durable material than polypropylene and is therefore preferable. The quality and price of the end product is determined largely by the various additives and the production process. When the artificial turf is new, differences in quality are often difficult to see with the naked eye. That is why knowledge of the basic materials and production method are important when making a decision.

Type of artificial grass fibres

Artificial grass fibres come in two types: fibrillated and monofilament. When producing fibrillated fibres, the plastic is pressed through an extruder head as a thin film (similar to videotape). Small notches are then made in this film. When the film is pulled apart, a honeycomb structure is formed. The wide film is spun around until a strong, rounded fibre is formed. The downside to fibrillated fibres is that they do not look natural. Over time, the notches split further and the product takes on a more natural appearance. This type of fibre is often less expensive and therefore used extensively for sports venues.

Monofilament fibres are pressed through the extruder head as ready-to-use fibres (similar to spaghetti). Several fibres are then combined and coiled to produce a bundle. This bundle forms the grass pile. Monofilament fibres generally have a more natural appearance. The level of flexibility, softness and wear resistance depends on the proportions, shape and materials used.

 

Royal Grass® is a leading artificial turf manufacturer. The monofilament grass fibres used are of exceptional quality and developed with the unique V-shape especially for Royal Grass®. It goes without saying that Royal Grass® offers a guarantee on its artificial turf. Tip: the height of the fibre, number of stitches per square metre, and thickness of the artificial grass fibre determine the weight. These are the properties that should be considered when comparing different artificial grass manufacturers. For the most natural-looking varieties of artificial turf, we recommend a minimum pile height of around 30 m.

Backing of the carpet

backing of the grass carpet
Back side artificial turf

The backing consists of woven fabric, usually made of polypropylene. This material can be reinforced with weft threads or by adding extra layers. A good backing is important for the stability of the turf. The backing must be resilient to various weather conditions, including rain, heat and frost. If the right backing is used, the artificial turf will last longer.

Securing the fibres

To secure the artificial grass fibres in the backing, a liquid mixture is spread across the back. This mixture differs per manufacturer, but is usually made of latex. Latex is an environmentally safe product in terms of both production method and use. A Polyurethane mixture (PU) is also used, but to a lesser extent. PU is a chemical product that entails more safety risks during production. Artificial turf with a PU coating is also more sensitive to changes in temperature.

Artificial turf systems

Artificial turf was first developed in the 1970s as an alternative to natural grass on playing fields, particularly for hockey and tennis. In the 1980s, new and skin-friendly artificial grass fibres were developed, making it possible to install artificial grass turf on football fields. Artificial grass for football differs from artificial grass for hockey and tennis because it is deep-pile turf. The height of the artificial grass fibres varies between 40 and 60 mm. To keep the long fibres upright and meet specific technical requirements for the sport, the playing fields are fist covered with a filler (usually a combination of sand and rubber). The next step in the development of artificial turf was its use for landscaping. This took place first in the United States in the 1990s but, since the turn of the century, Europe is also seeing more and more use of artificial turf.

The artificial turf used for landscaping is an ‘ornamental grass’ and has more attractive and softer fibres. This type is also deep-pile for a more natural effect. To prevent the fibres from laying flat, a filler is used. The first unfilled systems became available on the market in mid-2008. Unfilled systems are also deep-pile, but the sand has been replaced by a frizzy artificial grass fibre, also referred to as mossy wire. There is no difference in quality between sand-filled and unfilled systems. Both have advantages and disadvantages and the choice as to which to use depends on the desired usage and situation.

Sand-filled artificial turf

Sand (or other kind of filler) is necessary because a long blade of grass must always have some sort of support. This prevents it from laying flat. Sand is ideal because it is clean, natural and heavy. Sand not only makes the artificial turf heavier, so that it does not move around or lift up, but it also protects the turf and provides stability. Equally as important, it enhances the natural appearance of the turf. A common misconception is that the sand results in higher maintenance or soiling of the turf. Although sand-filled artificial grass does require slightly more attention than filled systems, it has a much more attractive appearance. This system also offers the certainty that the turf will continue to look well-kempt and attractive year after year.

Sand-filled artificial turf is recommended in the following situations:

  • Intensive use
  • High aesthetic value (most natural-looking)
  • Small or large surface areas
  • Extreme weather and/or usage conditions (higher temperatures, fluctuating temperatures, recreational use)
  • Long-term investment
  • Easily accessible grassy areas (such as front gardens without fencing) in connection with vandalism and theft
  • Fire safety

Unfilled artificial turf

A long blade of grass requires support. This can be provided by adding a layer of sand, as described above, or by using a frizzy fibre integrated into the bottom of the grass cover. This frizzy fibre, also known as mossy wire, makes the artificial turf look fuller and more attractive. The decision as to whether to choose filler sand or a mossy wire depends on the type of use.

Unfilled artificial turf is recommended in the following situations:

  • Balcony and roof gardens, where heavy weight or the presence of sand is undesirable
  • Smaller surface areas
  • Semi-temporary usage or when the turf is to be relocated in the future
  • Indoor or vertical use
  • Decorative use (showroom, trade fair)

Filler sand protects the grass and provides stability. It also prevents creasing. Tip: artificial grass with a frizzy fibre can also installed with a thin layer of sand to increase the life span and stability of the turf. The filler sand is covered by the frizzy fibre and concealed. The amount of sand required is one-third of the amount used in fully sand-filled systems.

Difference between grass systems.

Royal Grass® is filled with sand with an attractive earthy brown colour, which enhances its natural effect. The colour is burned into the sand (ceramic), making the grains of sand dark brown to the core. As a result, the sand retains the same colour throughout its life span and does not become lighter as time passes. It is a natural material that is clean and 100% odourless.

Artificial turf and the environment

Environmental considerations play an important role in the decision to use artificial grass. Artificial turf is kind on the environment. Installing artificial turf means no more mowing, fertilising, watering and, equally as important, no more chemicals for lawn upkeep. In the United States, a number of subsidy schemes are available to promote the use of artificial turf, largely due to the water savings achieved. The ban on plasticizers and heavy metals in the production of artificial grass is safeguarded by strict environmental standards (DIN 18035-7 concerning the leaching of heavy metals). Low maintenance: artificial grass does not grow and therefore does not need to be mowed with an electric mower. This results in zero energy costs and zero harmful emissions. Water savings: artificial grass does not need valuable drinking water. Sustainability: artificial grass has a long life span - depending, of course, on the quality chosen. Choosing a durable artificial grass product ultimately means less wastage and a reduced need for recycling.

Royal Grass® is produced with as little impact on our environment as possible and does not contain any substances that are harmful to either people or nature (DIN 18035-7). New production methods are developed continuously that result in a healthier and greener environment. We consider this our personal responsibility, both now and in the future.

Buying artificial turf

The first step is to decide which type of artificial turf is most suitable for the specific situation. This decision depends on the nature of the usage, as well as personal preferences in terms of colour combinations and softness. The best way to get a good idea and feel of the product is to physically compare samples, such as by walking on the turf barefooted. Whichever system - with or without filler sand - is most suitable depends on the location and intensity of expected use. Expert advice is recommended. The price of artificial turf can vary tremendously. Inexpensive artificial turf does not necessarily have to be of poor quality, nor is expensive turf always of high quality. Pay close attention to the quality characteristics of the various suppliers and inquire about the origin of the artificial turf. The cost price of artificial turf is primarily based on: Use of raw materials. The synthetic materials used must be resistant to all kinds of weather conditions, UV radiation and intensive use. Between 1 and 3 kilos of synthetic material is used for every square metre (inquire about the specifications). The heavier the product, the higher the cost price. Quality of the raw materials. The quality of the synthetic materials used naturally determines the cost price and, as a result, the expected life span. Transport. Rolls of artificial turf are heavy and difficult to transport, making the cost of logistics very high.

Royal Grass® is mainly sold through professional distributors. This site contains an exclusive list of recognised distributors. We guarantee that all distributors registered as our partner meet the quality standards and installation requirements we have imposed for the installation of artificial turf.

Install (lay) artificial turf

Soon you will find more information about the installation of artificial turf for home,playing surfaces and green space. This section is still under construction.

A good foundation is important!

Royal Grass® is primarily sold through professional channels by landscape gardeners and artificial grass specialists. The installation of artificial turf requires professional skill and knowledge. Aspects that must be taken into consideration include the type of surface and weather conditions. As with carpet laying, cutting the material to fit and seaming the joints require specific skills and experience. Naturally the difficulty of the installation depends on the type of artificial turf chosen and the layout of the grassy field

Advantages and disadvantages of artificial turf

Reasons to choose artificial turf include low maintenance, high functionality and aesthetic or decorative value. Depending on the intended use, there are several options in various price ranges from which to choose. If aesthetic value is of lesser importance, budget-friendly alternatives are also available.

Advantages

  • No more spraying
  • No more mowing
  • No more fertilising or reseeding
  • Far fewer vermin
  • Minimum maintenance
  • Always nice and green (decorative value depends on type of turf chosen)
  • Ideal for people with (grass) allergies

Additional advantages in warmer climates: less dust generation and fewer insects, such as mosquitoes, in and around the home. No trekking in mud and doors can stay open all day long!

The disadvantages are that artificial turf is warmer in the summer heat than natural grass and does not change colour along with the season. Artificial turf may be low maintenance (see maintenance instructions) but is not entirely maintenance-free, as is often believed.

Long-term use also subjects the artificial turf to normal wear and tear, also called flattening. The level of wear and tear depends on how intensely the turf is used. Certain actions can be taken to prevent flattening. The type of artificial grass (see V-shape) also affects this.  That is why it is important to get good advice.

A disadvantage and/or aspect that is often not mentioned or only in passing is the fact that artificial turf requires professional installation. Unprofessional installation, certainly when it concerns large surface areas, often leads to unsatisfying results. In the long term, professional installation pays for itself, also in terms of the pleasure derived from use.

Usage of artificial grass

In most cases, in areas where natural grass easily grows and maintenance is not problematic, artificial turf is not a good choice for reasons of price. But artificial turf is the perfect solution for those areas where natural grass does not normally grow, that are subject to intensive use, or in which maintenance is an important consideration. Artificial turf is also an excellent alternative to pavement (cobblestones, concrete, asphalt, etc.) in terms of both functionality and price.

Consumer usage

  • Balcony
  • Roofgarden
  • Garden
  • Holiday home
  • Campground
  • Indoor

Our photo gallery of private gardens includes countless pictures that serve as inspiration.

In the Garden
.
At the office
As playground

Government and business usage (greenification initiatives)

  • Roundabouts, greenbelts, grass strips
  • Industrial estates
  • Beautification along concrete bus lanes and tramways
  • Beautifying entrances to office buildings or city halls
  • Wadis
  • Playing fields around community centres, schools and in neighbourhoods
  • Company gardens and inner courtyards
  • Child care centres
  • Lightweight rooftop gardens

View our photo gallery of urban landscaping for examples.

Green strip
.
Roundabout
Office garden

Maintenance artificial grass

With only a minimum of maintenance, it is possible to enjoy an attractive artificial turf for many years on end.

 

  • Cleaning. It is important to keep artificial turf clean. Remove any leaves, weeds and other debris immediately.
  • Brushing. The grass fibres tend to lay flat after usage. Periodically raking or brushing the fibres will remedy this.
  • Blowing away leaves. Keep the artificial turf clean using a normal leaf blower or vacuum cleaner blower. But make sure the sand in sand-filled artificial turf does not blow away.
  • Weed control. Keeping the artificial turf clean will prevent weed growth. Weeds can be easily removed by plucking, brushing or raking the grass. Make sure weeds are removed before they can take root, especially along the edges of the turf. A number of environmentally friendly products can be purchased at home improvement centres and garden centres that kill algae, moss and weeds directly. If the instructions are followed carefully, the artificial turf will not suffer any damage.
  • Chlorine. Artificial turf made with polyamide fibres (PA) may not come into contact with chlorine products, as this can discolour the fibres.