The Truth About Common Artificial Grass Myths

Whether you are a parent concerned about your children’s safety or a coach trying to protect your athletes, you want to make sure your playing field is as safe as possible. There is a lot of talk about whether artificial turf or natural grass is safer. Concerns about the materials used to make synthetic greens and its resistance rate during play are particular areas of interest.  The experts at Turf Now!® are here to debunk the rumors and answer your questions about the safety and viability of artificial grass.

Does artificial grass reduce injury risk?

Sports communities are always debating over which option poses fewer injury risks: natural or artificial grass. There have been several studies observing the potential risks of both playing surfaces. A 2011  review of research by Sports Medicine found strong evidence suggesting that injuries will occur at similar rates regardless of the surface material. The important thing to consider is a proper installation*. Hazards such as dips and hills may not be as apparent once turf has been installed*. Turf Now!® takes extra precaution in leveling your surface before your initial installation* to avoid unseen dangers.

Does artificial turf contain lead?

In 2008, worry broke out after traces of lead were found in several artificial grass fields in New Jersey. At the time, lead chromate was being used to create the coloring for turf. Shortly after the incident, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission requested that lead be removed from all products. Today, artificial grass contains less lead than the water you drink at home and is 100 percent safe for use in homes, playgrounds and public spaces. Recent studies reiterate this information and state that young children are not at risk of lead exposure due to artificial turf and that it is safe to play on. New, more natural color practices have been implemented that help maintain your lawn’s color without dangerous substances.

Does artificial turf reduce bacteria?

One of the considerable benefits of artificial turf is the reduction of chemicals, bacteria and pests on its surface. Many of the insects that are attracted to natural grass carry potentially dangerous bacteria. Chemical repellent can eliminate pests, but add hazardous substances to your lawn that are not safe for children or pets. Synthetic turf eliminates the need to use bug sprays, pesticides and fertilizers, which frees you from exposure to chemical hazards.

Does artificial turf require more maintenance?

One of the most common myths surrounding synthetics is that they require zero upkeep. Maintenance is minimal and often saves homeowners hours in yard maintenance each week, but artificial lawns still need a little love from time to time. High traffic areas like playgrounds and sports complexes will need to be watered and groomed regularly to maintain their look and natural feel. Artificial grass will also withstand heavy use better than traditional fields and still requires less maintenance than other landscaping surfaces.

Is artificial turf a fire hazard?

Arson attacks on playgrounds have been a problem for elementary schools. If a school has a mulch play area, the severity of the fire increases. Turf Now!® understands these potential fire risks, which is why they have developed a solution to combat the problem. Turf Now!® is the first and only artificial grass company with a product that passes the requirements of ASTM E 108 and earns a Class A fire rating. Our applications are made to melt, so they do not spread the fire. In the summer of 2015, a fire at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Las Vegas began spreading fast due to high winds. Luckily, the hotel had recently installed* Turf Now!®’s SYNRye 211 synthetic turf product, which prevented the fire from spreading.

With proper installation*, synthetics can make your world safer for play. If you are interested in creating an artificial turf playground or sports field in the Los Angeles area, contact us today to set up your consultation.