How Ice Can Impact Your Artificial Turf Over Time
Ice buildup on artificial turf surfaces can lead to a number of problems such as dead grass spots, infestations of weeds or mold, and long-term discoloration. In order to keep your synthetic lawn looking great for years to come, there are several steps that you should take to protect your turf from potential damage due to icy conditions.
Here’s how ice can impact your artificial turf over time and how best to go about preventing it.
- Moisture
Ice can quickly impact your artificial turf over time due to excessive moisture during winter weather. As snow and ice melt, the amount of water on your artificial turf increases significantly causing the surface to become wet and soggy. Excess moisture leads to a slippery or dangerous surface.
- Temperature Control
Ice can also lead to extreme temperature fluctuations on your artificial turf that can damage the grass fibers and reduce stability over time. When excess snow melts, small pockets of ice accumulate on the artificial turf which results in more cold spots when the temperatures drop again at night.
- Mold & Mildew
If not cared for properly, ice accumulation can easily cause mold or mildew to grow on your artificial turf over time due to its very damp environment which then leads to discoloration and deterioration of your playing field surfaces. Mold is especially concerning since its spores can be released into the air when disturbed, making it an important hazard. It’s best to promptly remove any standing snow or ice that begins to accumulate so it doesn’t heighten these risks.
- Weed Growth
If not removed quickly, excessive snowmelt can cause an increase in weed growth on artificial turf. This is because the snow melts provide a perfect setting for the weeds to sprout during cold winter months. The fluctuating temperatures of balmy daytimes and freezing nights contribute to their rapid growth in the moist and dark conditions.
- Excess Weight
Snow accumulation adds extra weight to synthetic turf surfaces, which can lead to deterioration and make it slippery. To prevent damage to the fibers and collapse of the artificial lawn, it is best to remove any built up snow before the end of the season.
Ensure the longevity and vibrancy of your synthetic grass
Artificial turf is a popular choice in many homes and commercial areas because it is low-maintenance, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. However, most people don’t realize that ice can have an impact on it over time.
Joshua Apodaca from Artificial Grass Masters can help you protect your turf from ice damage, be sure to regularly remove the ice before too much accumulates, rinse with warm water when conditions allow, and add sand infill to keep it supported under difficult conditions.
Following these easy steps will help you ensure the longevity and vibrancy of your artificial turf for years to come.
