http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog Your Resource Into the Synthetic Grass World. Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:40:53 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0.4 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2012/01/31/get-your-water-saving-rebates-for-installing-turf-if-you-can/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2012/01/31/get-your-water-saving-rebates-for-installing-turf-if-you-can/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:44:26 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=738 Another indicator of a down economy: Rebates from water districts, encouragements for homeowners to install synthetic grass, are starting to dry up. Some desert areas, such as Las Vegas and Scottsdale, Arizona, continue to offer residential customers incentives to replace (or not plant) natural grass in favor of artificial turf. In Las Vegas, residents who install water-wise landscaping such as synthetic grass receive $1.50 per square foot, with a limit of 5,000 square feet. In Scottsdale, the rebate is a maximum 50 cents per square foot. Some cities in the Coachella Valley Water District’s service area can receive $2.00 per square foot. And in other communities in the West, water-saving rebates can be had for installing waterless turf. However, many water providers have discontinued their rebates since the high-water mark of 2009, when most residents in Southern California were eligible for H2O-saving rebates of 75 cents or more per square foot for installing artificial turf. The city of Riverside is an exception, still promoting $1.00 per square foot incentives; most municipalities have retracted rebate programs. The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, a consortium of 26 agencies that once was a big backer of water-saving rebates for synthetic grass, now leaves those to the discretion of individual suppliers.]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2012/01/31/get-your-water-saving-rebates-for-installing-turf-if-you-can/feed/ 0 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2012/01/31/durafill-a-testament-to-the-best-in-modern-infill/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2012/01/31/durafill-a-testament-to-the-best-in-modern-infill/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:42:00 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=733 In the beginning of infilled synthetic grass, there was a void, a multitude of space between the fibers where a “synthetic soil” belonged. It was decreed that rubber, ground from tires, could serve as the infill material for that turf. And the athletes who played on that first generation of turf saw that it was good … until their revelation that the granules bounced around, and under full sun the black rubber absorbed heat of biblical proportions. This begat the introduction of raw silica as infill … which led to an epiphany that mere sand was abrasive like sandpaper, compacted hard, limited drainage, and absorbed all that the family dog dropped onto the turf. And it came to pass that to deliver artificial turf from these evils, a different infill was needed. And so Synthetic Grass Warehouse introduced Durafill: the cool, clean and pet-friendly granules that make even non-believers sing its praise. Durafill, composed of rounded quartz core mined from the Hickory Formation in central Texas, is specially designed for use in artificial turf. It looks and feels natural and is warranted to perform for 16 years. Durafill is also manufactured with Microban antimicrobial product protection to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew that can cause odors and even staining.]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2012/01/31/durafill-a-testament-to-the-best-in-modern-infill/feed/ 0 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2012/01/04/reflections-on-turf-it-doesn%e2%80%99t-have-to-look-shiny/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2012/01/04/reflections-on-turf-it-doesn%e2%80%99t-have-to-look-shiny/#comments Wed, 04 Jan 2012 18:21:00 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=726 A traditional knock on artificial turf is: It’s shiny, which makes it looks fake. That was a characteristic of the first generations of synthetic grass (i.e., Astroturf) but needn’t be a reason for rejection today. Contemporary polyethylene synthetic grass minimizes reflection and refraction of light, headlined by yarn engineering … a production in which the star of the show DOESN’T sparkle. Under a bright sun, it can difficult to totally eliminate twinkling of light on synthetic grass; the effect is similar to a lawn glistening after it’s been watered. One reason reflections are less apparent are the application of newer ultra-violet coatings, applied to artificial turf to prevent fading; the matte finish “oxidizes” after time under the sun without losing effectiveness, even in pet turf installations. But the design of the artificial turf blades is the most important contributor to the shine factor, and usually determines the realistic appearance of a lawn – one reason why yarn technology is a passion at Synthetic Grass Warehouse.]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2012/01/04/reflections-on-turf-it-doesn%e2%80%99t-have-to-look-shiny/feed/ 0 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/30/decisions-decisions-which-turf-is-best-for-your-project/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/30/decisions-decisions-which-turf-is-best-for-your-project/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:22:05 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=721 And you thought there were lots of options involved in surfing TV channels or shopping for yogurt? SGW warehouses dozens of artificial turfs – synthetic grass with variations in colors and composition, pile height and face weight, blade thickness, texture … such an array of products with so many options it can verge on overwhelming. Why so many choices? In the synthetic grass business, phrases like “One size fits all” or “universal turf” aren’t acceptable anymore. If you’re installing turf for use in a pet resort, it’s not going to be subjected to the same use as turf for a backyard putting green or an indoor soccer arena. Moral of the story: Different applications require different types of synthetic grass. Happily, SGW does offer the widest selection of products for front and back yards … or sports, playground and recreational use … or pet turf … or commercial jobs. Whatever the purpose, we’re able to provide essential knowledge and know-how and help recommend the best turf (or turfs) for your project. Each of our synthetic lawns has some common denominators: all-polyethylene, lead-free fiber; heavy-duty backings with a thick coating of polyurethane; warranted to perform and look great for years with none of the TLC associated with natural grass. And: All of our turf is sold at factory-direct pricing... (click below to read more)]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/30/decisions-decisions-which-turf-is-best-for-your-project/feed/ 0 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/15/maintenance-a-word-seldom-associated-with-synthetic-grass/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/15/maintenance-a-word-seldom-associated-with-synthetic-grass/#comments Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:02:02 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=707 How best to describe the maintenance necessary with a Synthetic Grass Warehouse synthetic lawn? “Maintenance-free” is a correct adjective – at least compared to natural grass. Modern synthetic turf requires none of the regular maintenance, or tender loving care, that sod does. With SGW synthetic grass there’s no mowing, no watering, no fertilizing and no sweat. An artificial lawn conserves resources, time and money. “Virtually-maintenance free” is the absolutely accurate way to describe synthetic grass. It’s not a magic carpet, so a minimum of effort is needed to, say, sweep or rake the leaves (or use a leaf blower) that fall from a tree onto the synthetic grass. For a pet turf installation, all that’s needed is occasional pick-up of solid waste and a rinse to keep the lawn nice and clean. Compared to the work involved to keep a natural lawn looking immaculate and green, every day is a day off with synthetic grass. “Carefree” may be the best word to describe SGW turf. It looks great and performs flawlessly without everyday upkeep, day after day, year after year, guaranteed. Our synthetic lawns are guaranteed not to fade or come apart for up to 10 years – the longest manufacturer’s warranty in the industry. ]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/15/maintenance-a-word-seldom-associated-with-synthetic-grass/feed/ 0 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/01/outside-the-box-with-synthetic-grass-apps/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/01/outside-the-box-with-synthetic-grass-apps/#comments Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:29:11 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=702 One of the greatest advantages of a synthetic lawn is: It “grows” anywhere. More accurately, artificial turf can be installed in residential and urban locations where natural grass isn’t feasible. For example, on a patio. Or a wooden balcony. On top of a roof. Over concrete. Next to a swimming pool. Synthetic grass can transform these and other spaces previously unsuited or unimaginable for lawns into functional and beautiful areas. The results can produce inviting rooftop outdoor environments or entertainment pits, natural-looking terraces and courtyards, and often surprising benefits. Pet turf installed over an unyielding surface such as concrete can be dog- (and owner-) friendly. Synthetic grass will last longer than wood or synthetic deck materials. It’s a lightweight insulation for roofing and has outstanding fire resistance. Happily, these synthetic grass applications are as carefree as maintenance-free backyard turf, typically requiring only a few variations to standard installation concepts. Drainage - The permeability of turf – specifically, the perforation holes – would seem to be purposeless when installing over non-porous surfaces such as a typical concrete slab. However, installation of a cellular drainage mat, glued directly onto the concrete under the turf, will facilitate drainage along the natural slope to any existing drainage points. A non-perforated drainage mat will also allow the synthetic grass to function as a pet turf -- transporting dog urine and liquids readily through the turf system and off the concrete … and preventing accumulation of odor.]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/01/outside-the-box-with-synthetic-grass-apps/feed/ 0 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/01/turf-undercover-talking-points-for-backings/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/01/turf-undercover-talking-points-for-backings/#comments Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:26:31 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=698 Obviously in synthetic grass, the fiber is the star of the show. The appearance of the turf counts for a lot, and it’s significant to weigh the color and composition of yarn, density and pile height. But the backing, the skeleton of the turf system, is also important (though less apparent). How a backing is manufactured and what it’s made of is essential to the performance of artificial grass. Almost all turf is has a two-part backing system – a primary woven backing into which fibers are stitched, and a heavier secondary backing that holds the tufts in place and keeps the carpet laying flat. The composition and construction of secondary backings are worth consideration. One great backing debate: Perforated, or non-perforated? Most secondary backings of contemporary synthetic grass are made of urethane and feature perforations, or punched holes every couple of inches, to facilitate drainage. Perforated drainage systems are typically rated at 20 inches per hour of greater. Some manufacturers have introduced non-perforated geotextile backings without perforations (in essence, woven layer melted onto the primary backing) in quest for better drainage and an antidote to pre-existing weeds that try to peek through the turf...(click below to read more)]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/11/01/turf-undercover-talking-points-for-backings/feed/ 0 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/10/20/is-artificial-field-turf-right-for-your-backyard/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/10/20/is-artificial-field-turf-right-for-your-backyard/#comments Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:11:41 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=694 The artificial turf that surfaces football, soccer, baseball and multi-sports fields is safe, long-lasting and looks a lot like natural grass – especially when viewed on TV, or from 10 rows up in the grandstand. However, field turf is not necessarily the best option when installing synthetic grass in your back yard. Turf manufactured and installed specifically for sports fields is almost always designed for a purpose different than fake grass used in residential applications. Both types originate as an infilled product, typically with a non-abrasive, non-absorptive polyethylene grass fiber and a perforated polyethylene/urethane backing. Otherwise there are significant and obvious differences. For a field turf, safety is a predominant concern – especially shock absorbency for high-speed collision games such as football. Usually an artificial turf field gets its shock absorbency from rubber granules distributed between the fibers as a synthetic “soil,” and the more rubber, the better. Thus athletic field turf is most often characterized by an extra-deep monofilament pile, usually 2 ¼ inches or more, because as a pile is taller the more shock-absorbent rubber infill can be installed. Sometimes a synthetic football field will have grass 2 ¾ inches tall, with six or seven pounds of infill, and will have a decidedly “squishy,” or rubbery consistency as you walk on it... (click below to read more).]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/10/20/is-artificial-field-turf-right-for-your-backyard/feed/ 0 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/10/03/pet-turf-or-not-pet-turf/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/10/03/pet-turf-or-not-pet-turf/#comments Mon, 03 Oct 2011 17:30:04 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=691 Modern synthetic grass is applicable for all seasons and all reasons, with dedicated products available for unique applications. Today’s point to ponder: Do you -- or your customer – and Fido need a specialized pet turf with all the goodies? A standard installation of artificial turf may satisfy landscaping purposes, but is not necessarily ideal for the special demands of a lawn used by dogs. Certain common denominators of synthetic grass, especially polyethylene fiber and urethane backing, are assets for a pet turf installation. However, additional ingredients and installation procedures are usually necessary to ensure the turf performs as intended … and smells acceptable. For owners of anything larger than a tiny dog, or multiple pets, the big issue is urine. Synthetic fiber will out-perform natural grass in many areas – it won’t spot, fade or turn brown, and the polyethylene is soft on pads yet durable and non-absorbent. Perforated urethane backings are also non-absorbent and engineered for proper drainage. The system also cleans up nicely with a rinse of water and/or a household cleaner. For additional protection, consider these value-added components of the Pet Ultimate K-9 System: Pet Turf Our special brand of synthetic grass is designed specifically for use with dogs of all sizes and breeds, in back yards, kennels or veterinary clinics. It’s a monofilament blend of field and olive green polyethylene yarns, tufted to a 1-inch pile that facilitates drainage. The grass fibers are UV-stabilized and won’t stain or fade, insect- and flame-resistant, anti-acid and lead-free and 100% recyclable. Pet Turf’s unique formula of urethane-coated backing provides superior strength and wearability and isn’t water-soluble. Solid waste is easy to remove, and the grass rinses clean with no muddy paw prints. Plus: Pet Turf looks and feels like real thing, so dogs are attracted to “do their business” on it... (click below to read more...)]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/10/03/pet-turf-or-not-pet-turf/feed/ 0 http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/10/03/one-call-to-sgw-does-it-all/ http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/10/03/one-call-to-sgw-does-it-all/#comments Mon, 03 Oct 2011 17:23:41 +0000 DigitalTurfDealer http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/?p=686 You get the finest quality products at factory-direct prices from Synthetic Grass Warehouse … and just “getting it” is easier, too. Just give us a call at 800.730.2675 from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time weekdays and 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays, and we’ll get your questions answered and orders processed without delay. For artificial turf customers, the process hasn’t always been this simple or straightforward. Perhaps you knew a friend of a friend who works at a turf factory in Georgia. But you didn’t expect to have to buy thousands of dollars of material sight unseen. Or be told that the turf you desire is out of stock and must be re-submitted in the dreaded “next production cycle.” And they might not have told you about a “limited warranty,” or the “minimum order.” They might have neglected to mention that you would be responsible for finding a truck and driver to get the turf cross-country to your “storage destination,” and shipping might take up to 10 business days or more. Possibly you tried to buy from a synthetic grass “broker,” a middleman who can’t access the turf you really want but adds 25 or 50 or 75 cents to the square-foot cost. Now consider the SGW way: We’ve achieved an unsurpassed reputation in the industry for satisfaction and service, and standing behind what we sell. SGW’s knowledgeable professionals are ready help you to decide what turf or accessories you’ll need, affordaby. We’ve got the product you want and need, always in stock, and there are no order minimums. SGW ships door-to-door nationwide from multiple distribution points, usually the same day, at competitive rates. (You can also arrange for pick-up.) You make the call!]]> http://www.syntheticgrasswarehouse.com/blog/2011/10/03/one-call-to-sgw-does-it-all/feed/ 0