Decoding the Roll: A Guide to the Different Types of Turf
In the world of synthetic grass, there is no “one-size-fits-all.” Choosing the right sports turf requires understanding the chemistry of the fibers and the engineering of the backing.
At Sports Turf Warehouse in Dalton, GA, we simplify this by categorizing turf by its primary material and intended use.
The Three Main Materials
Polyethylene (PE): This is the most popular choice for residential lawns and athletic fields. It offers a perfect balance of softness and durability. It’s non-porous (doesn’t retain odors) and mimics the look and feel of natural grass better than any other material.
Nylon: The “Heavyweight Champion” of turf. Nylon is incredibly strong and can withstand extreme heat and high-impact traffic without losing its shape. It is typically used for commercial gym sled lanes and premium putting green fringes.
Polypropylene (PP): The budget-friendly option. While not as durable as nylon or PE, it is excellent for decorative indoor displays, trade show booths, or low-traffic pet areas.
The Infill Factor
Beyond the fiber material itself, the secret to a high-performing turf installation lies in the infill.
What is Infill?
Infill consists of small granules—such as silica sand, rounded acrylic-coated grains, or crumb rubber—that are brushed into the fibers after the turf is laid.
This serves three critical functions:
- It provides the necessary weight to keep the turf flat and prevent “wrinkling,”
- It acts as a synthetic “soil” that supports the blades to keep them standing upright
- It protects the primary backing from UV exposure.
Choosing the right infill is just as important as choosing the right turf; for example, a cooling infill can lower surface temperatures by up to 20degrees, making it a must-have for sunny residential lawns or playgrounds.
Functional Categories
Landscape Turf: Designed for aesthetics with multi-tone green blades and a brown “thatch” layer for realism.
Sports & Agility Turf: Focused on “bounce-back” and traction, often featuring a shorter pile height to handle quick lateral movements.
Pet Turf: Features an ultra-permeable backing to ensure maximum drainage and antimicrobial fibers to neutralize odors.
Find the Right Turf for Your Application with Sports Turf Warehouse in Dalton, GA
As a family-owned business based in the “Turf Capital of the World”—Dalton, GA—Sports Turf Warehouse is uniquely positioned to offer professional-grade engineering with a local, personalized touch.
Whether you’re an avid golfer or a homeowner looking for a maintenance-free oasis, we are here to answer any of your questions and provide high-quality artificial turf for any application.
Shop Online: Browse our full inventory of residential and commercial turf.
Visit the Warehouse: Stop by our Dalton location to see our products in person and get expert advice.
Request a Custom Quote: Call us today to discuss your project dimensions and get a tailored estimate.