Artificial turf is an excellent investment for homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, green lawn all year round.
However, many homeowners face the frustrating issue of their synthetic grass melting.
The hotter your state, the higher the risk, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, California, and Florida are especially vulnerable.
If you’ve noticed any unsightly damage or wilting on your artificial lawn, you’re not alone.
This article will delve into the avoidable problem of artificial grass melting, particularly from the reflections of certain windows, and provide practical solutions to prevent and repair the damage.
Can Artificial Grass Melt?
Yes, artificial grass can melt. Most turf products are manufactured using materials like Polyethylene, Polypropylene, and Nylon. These materials have varying melting points:
- Polyethylene melting point: 180° – 240° F
- Polypropylene melting point: 200° – 290° F
- Nylon point: 190° – 300° F
When exposed to temperatures within these ranges, the synthetic fibers can begin to degrade and melt. Do not equate these degrees to the outside temperature. So what causes these high temperatures on your lawn?
What Causes Artificial Grass to Melt?
Artificial turf generally withstands direct sunlight without issue. However, the intensity of concentrated heat from reflected sunlight poses a significant threat. Low-E (low-emissivity) windows, designed to reflect heat to keep homes cooler, can inadvertently focus sunlight onto your turf, creating hot spots that can exceed the melting point of synthetic fibers.
Reflected Sunlight From Low-E Windows
Low-E windows have gained popularity among homeowners due to their energy efficiency. These windows are coated to minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that passes through the glass without compromising the amount of visible light transmitted.
While beneficial for reducing energy costs, these windows can act like magnifying glasses, concentrating sunlight into powerful beams. When these beams focus on your artificial turf, the intense heat can cause the grass fibers to melt and degrade.
How to Prevent Artificial Grass From Melting
The good news is that you can prevent your synthetic lawn from melting with some straightforward solutions. Protecting your investment in artificial turf requires proactive measures.
Anti-Glare Window Film
Applying anti-glare window film to your windows can significantly reduce the intensity of reflected sunlight. These films do not impair the performance or energy efficiency of your windows but disperse the light, preventing the focused beams that cause melting.
What Are Anti-Glare Window Films?
Anti-glare window films are thin, transparent layers applied to the surface of windows. They are designed to reduce glare by dispersing and diffusing sunlight, preventing it from concentrating into intense beams that can cause damage. These films maintain the clarity and appearance of your windows while enhancing comfort and protecting your artificial turf and interior furnishings from UV damage.
Recommended Anti-Glare Window Films
3M Anti-Glare Window Film
3M offers a range of window films that provide excellent glare reduction while maintaining high optical clarity. These films are designed to improve comfort by reducing heat and glare.
- Features: Blocks up to 99% of UV rays, enhances energy efficiency, and reduces glare.
- Link to Product: 3M Anti-Glare Window Film
Gila Heat Control Platinum Adhesive Residential Window Film
Gila’s Heat Control window film provides superior glare reduction and heat control. It’s designed for residential use and is easy to install with a DIY-friendly adhesive backing.
- Features: Reflects heat, reduces glare, and blocks UV rays while allowing natural light to enter.
- Link to Product: Gila Heat Control Window Film
Vista Window Film by LLumar
LLumar’s Vista series offers high-performance window films that reduce glare and heat. These films are known for their durability and optical clarity.
- Features: Reduces glare, improves energy efficiency, and blocks harmful UV rays without darkening the room.
- Link to Product: Vista Window Film by LLumar
How to Apply Anti-Glare Window Film
Applying anti-glare window film is a straightforward process that can be done by following these steps:
- Clean the Window: Thoroughly clean the window surface to remove any dust, dirt, or debris. Use a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to ensure a spotless surface.
- Measure and Cut the Film: Measure the dimensions of your window and cut the film to size, leaving a small margin for adjustments.
- Apply the Film: Peel off the backing from the film and apply it to the window starting from the top. Use a squeegee to smooth out any air bubbles and ensure a firm adhesion.
- Trim Excess Film: Once the film is securely in place, trim any excess material from the edges using a utility knife.
- Final Smoothing: Use the squeegee to smooth out the film again, ensuring a clean, bubble-free finish.
Investing in high-quality anti-glare window films can protect your artificial turf from melting while maintaining the energy efficiency and performance of your windows. These films offer an affordable and effective solution to glare problems, ensuring that your synthetic lawn stays pristine and your indoor environment remains comfortable.
Identifying Glare Spots Before Installing Turf
Preventing damage before it occurs is ideal. Before installing artificial grass, identify potential problem windows or other reflective surfaces. Use a thermometer to measure the heat generated by window reflections.
Place the thermometer on the ground where the glare is focused to see if the temperature is high enough to damage synthetic grass. This simple test can save you from costly repairs down the line.
How to Repair Melted Artificial Grass
If your artificial grass has already suffered melting damage, all hope isn’t lost. Use these pro tips
For lasting repair. If the damage seems beyond your control, our team will be the first to restore your artificial turf to mint condition. Check out our Turf Refresh program or submit a Service Request.
- Remove the Infill Material: Carefully remove the infill from the damaged area using a brush or small vacuum.
- Cut Out the Damaged Turf: Use a utility knife to cut out the melted section, ensuring clean, straight edges.
- Replace with New Turf: Cut a piece of new turf to fit the removed section and secure it in place using adhesive or staples.
- Apply Infill and Brush: Reapply the infill material evenly and brush the turf fibers to blend the repaired section with the surrounding lawn.
Wrapping Up Our Guide to Artificial Turf Melting Issues
Artificial turf melting can be a frustrating issue, but it can be prevented and repaired with the right knowledge and tools.
By understanding the causes, such as reflected sunlight from Low-E windows, and implementing solutions like anti-glare films, you can protect your investment.
If you already have damage, repairing the turf is straightforward with the proper steps.
Need more help in protecting or repairing your artificial turf?
Click Here or call our team at 801-761-4446 for an artificial turf maintenance game plan.
