Last Updated on May 24, 2022 by ReTurf
Artificial turf is similar to grass in just about every way, but with significantly less upkeep. It looks like real grass, it feels like real grass—and it responds to its environment like real grass.
So of course, when the end of Spring is on the horizon and the Summer sun starts to heats up, your turf yard is going to get warm, too.
But just like having a hot grass lawn, this isn’t necessarily a problem. (And with artificial turf, you’re fortunate that you won’t have to worry about a summer heat wave burning your grass.)
Still, there are a few simple tricks you can use to keep your artificial grass cooler and comfortable to the touch all summer long.
Here are 4 easy ways to keep turf cool in the summer.
#1: Use a garden hose
This is the simplest way to keep your turf cool in the summer heat. All you need is a garden hose. Simply spray down your turf lawn with cool water for a quick and easy way to lower the temperature.
Unlike natural grass, artificial turf doesn’t require watering, but a quick spritzing with the hose every once in while during the summer will keep your lawn clean and cool.
#2: Use planters, trellises, or screening plants to provide shade
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, then you can use plants to provide shade for your artificial turf. Planters, trellises, and screening plants are all great options.
By strategically placing them around your turf, you can significantly reduce the amount of direct sunlight that hits the ground.
#3: Use shade cloths or sun sails to block direct sunlight
Shade cloths and sun sails are great options if you want to block out direct sunlight. They can be easily installed and removed, which makes them a great option for temporary relief from the summer heat.
Both shade cloths and sun sails are available in a variety of colors and sizes, and they can be a great aesthetic addition to your lawn/landscaping, even if you only intend to keep them up temporarily.
#4: Use a retractable shade to create an instant oasis
If you want a more permanent solution than a sun sail or shade cloth, then you can install a retractable shade. This will provide you with instant relief from the sun’s rays. (A retractable shade is also a great option if you have a patio or deck that you want to keep cool in the summer, and can also be used to make a backyard “oasis”.)
What About Turf Cooling Systems?
If you live in an extremely hot, dry part of the country (such as Arizona or Nevada) there are actually turf cooling systems that are designed specifically to keep artificial turf lawns cool in very hot climates. However, they need to be installed before the turf is installed. They can also be a big investment, and the vast majority of the time they aren’t needed, but they do exist—so it’s worth mentioning them here.
Final Thoughts
For the majority of people, the tips above will be more than enough to keep their artificial turf lawns cool in the summer heat. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to consult with a professional turf installer. They can help you choose the best, most cost-effective turf options for your particular situation.
Interested in artificial turf installation? We’d love to discuss your project with you and answer any questions you have. ReTURF has the most competitive pricing in the artificial turf industry, and we are happy to help you find the products that fit your exact needs. Call us at (828) 518-5787 or click here for a quote request.