Sports fields and landscaping areas should be designed to meet aesthetic, functional, and environmental needs. In this regard, synthetic turf, hybrid turf, and natural grass are three main types of turf preferred for different purposes today. Each has its unique characteristics, installation processes, and maintenance requirements. In this blog, we will examine what each type of turf is, its advantages, and its installation processes in detail.
1. Synthetic Turf
Definition
Synthetic turf is a type of grass made from artificial materials such as polyethylene or polypropylene, used as a replacement for natural grass. It is commonly used in sports fields and landscaping areas. While synthetic turf resembles natural grass in appearance, it is much more practical and durable in terms of maintenance.
Advantages
- Low Maintenance: Unlike natural grass, synthetic turf does not require watering, mowing, or fertilizing.
- Durability: Synthetic turf is durable and can last for years without losing its performance, even under various weather conditions.
- Environmentally Friendly: It conserves water as it does not need irrigation. Also, there is no need for pesticides and fertilizers used in the care of natural grass.
- Quick Installation: Synthetic turf can be installed faster compared to other types of grass.
- High Performance: It provides an excellent surface for sports, particularly for football, tennis, and American football.
Installation Process
- Ground Preparation: The installation of synthetic turf begins with preparing the ground. The existing surface is leveled, and any obstacles such as stones or roots are removed.
- Substructure Installation: A drainage system is installed to ensure proper water runoff. This step prevents water accumulation.
- Laying the Synthetic Turf: Synthetic turf rolls are placed on the prepared area. These rolls are cut according to the size of the area, and the edges are securely fixed.
- Adhesion and Stitching: The turf rolls are glued and stitched together. This process prevents the turf from slipping.
- Sand Application: Special sand is spread between the grass fibers. This helps make the turf sturdier and creates a natural appearance.
- Final Touches: The overall arrangement of the area is checked, and the positioning of the turf is ensured to be correct.
2. Hybrid Turf
Definition
Hybrid turf is a surface type that combines natural grass with synthetic turf. This system blends the durability of synthetic grass with the aesthetics of natural grass. Hybrid turf is typically used in professional sports fields and areas with high-performance requirements. Synthetic fibers are mixed with natural grass to create a more durable and long-lasting surface.
Advantages
- Natural Look and Feel: Hybrid turf is the closest type to natural grass and provides a comfortable playing surface for athletes.
- Long-Lasting: Hybrid turf is as durable and long-lasting as synthetic turf but offers the look and feel of natural grass.
- High Performance: Hybrid turf performs excellently even with heavy use. Regular maintenance, like natural grass, is still required.
- Environmentally Friendly: It requires less chemical use compared to synthetic turf, though it still conserves water.
Installation Process
- Ground Preparation: Like synthetic turf, hybrid turf installation starts with preparing the ground. The surface is leveled, and proper drainage is installed.
- Seeding Natural Grass: The area is seeded with special natural grass seeds, which ensures the hybrid turf has a natural appearance.
- Adding Synthetic Fibers: After the natural grass has been seeded, synthetic fibers are laid down and integrated into the grass.
- Maintenance and Improvement: Over time, the synthetic fibers mix with the natural grass, creating a more durable surface. Regular watering and maintenance are required at this stage.
- Final Adjustment: After the surface has been checked for consistency, the area is inspected to ensure it is ready for use.
3. Natural Grass
Definition
Natural grass is real grass grown in soil. Turf areas consist of plants that grow naturally on the ground and are typically used in landscaping, parks, and sports fields. Natural grass is more ecologically balanced but requires considerable maintenance.
Advantages
- Natural Look and Feel: Natural grass offers the most aesthetically pleasing appearance and feel. It also provides a cooling effect in hot weather conditions.
- Environmental Benefits: It absorbs carbon and is environmentally friendly. Moreover, natural grass can improve soil health.
- Sports Performance: Natural grass provides a soft surface for athletes and is generally safer to play on.
Installation Process
- Ground Preparation: Installing natural grass begins with preparing the ground. The surface is leveled, and stones and roots are cleared. The foundation should ensure proper drainage.
- Soil Treatment: The ground is worked on to create a fertile environment for growth. Soil is mixed, aerated, and necessary nutrients are added.
- Seeding the Grass: Appropriate seeds are sown on the ground. Natural grass seeds are spread in the right quantities across the area.
- Watering and Maintenance: Regular watering is necessary for the grass to grow. Additionally, fertilizing, mowing, and pest control are part of the maintenance process.
- Regular Maintenance: To keep the grass healthy, regular mowing, watering, fertilizing, and pest control are necessary.
Synthetic turf, hybrid turf, and natural grass are types of turf that can be selected according to different usage needs. Each has different advantages and installation processes, and to make the right choice, the intended use, budget, and maintenance requirements must be considered. Synthetic turf is an excellent option for those seeking low maintenance and durability, while hybrid turf is ideal for high-performance projects that require a natural look. Natural grass remains a traditional option, appreciated for its aesthetic and environmental benefits.
| GRASS COMPARISON | |||||
| Grass Type | Synthetic Turf | Hybrid Turf | Natural Grass | ||
| Appearance | Resembles natural grass, but is artificial. | Very close to a natural appearance, with some synthetic fibers in certain areas. | Completely natural, provides the real grass look and feel. | ||
| Maintenance | Requires low maintenance; no watering, mowing, or fertilizing. | Requires moderate maintenance; needs watering and care like natural grass. | Requires high maintenance; regular watering, mowing, fertilizing, and pest control. | ||
| Durability | Very durable and long-lasting. | Very durable and long-lasting, but requires maintenance due to its mix with natural grass. | Durability depends on weather conditions and maintenance levels. | ||
| Eco-Friendliness | Saves water; no chemical fertilizers or pesticides are used. | Requires less chemical use, but is not as eco-friendly as natural grass. | Absorbs carbon, is eco-friendly, but may require water and chemicals. | ||
| Installation Time | Can be installed quickly. | Has a moderate installation time. | Long installation time; soil preparation and grass growth take time. | ||
| Sports Performance | High performance, especially in sports like soccer and tennis. | High performance, offers the closest game experience to natural grass. | Provides high performance, but requires more maintenance. | ||
| Temperature and Climate Resistance | Resistant to extreme hot and cold conditions. | Adapts to different climates, but its performance depends on the mix with natural grass and climate conditions. | Natural grass is sensitive to climate conditions; may struggle in extreme heat or cold. | ||
| Cost | High initial cost, but low maintenance cost in the long run. | Initial cost may be higher; maintenance cost is moderate. | Lower initial cost, but higher maintenance costs. | ||
| Water Usage | Requires no water. | Requires moderate water usage. | Requires high water consumption. | ||
