Top 3 Tips to Prevent Reflective Sun Damage to Artificial Grass
Top 3 Tips to Prevent Reflective Sun Damage to Artificial Grass
Installing artificial grass can be a great way to enhance the look of any outdoor or indoor space. However, if not properly installed, synthetic grass can be at risk of melting due to sun reflection. At Eco Lawn, we have years of experience in the field, and we want to share the top 3 tips to help you prevent this from happening to your artificial grass.
Reflection of the Sun: What Causes it?
Sun reflection occurs when rays of light fall on a shiny surface such as a Low-E glass window or a white plastic or aluminum fence. These surfaces concentrate the sun’s rays and bounce them back to another surface, in this case, the artificial grass. This can cause a significant increase in temperature, reaching 80-95 °C, and eventually, melting the synthetic grass. The reflection of the sun from Low-E glass windows is due to their ability to keep interior spaces cool by bouncing excess heat out. Meanwhile, fences and other polished metal objects can also cause the same issue by reflecting the sun’s rays onto the grass.
Tip 1 – Cost-Effective Alternatives to Nylon Grass
If you’re searching for a cost-effective solution to nylon grass installation, anti-reflective film on windows or doors may be a suitable option. Jason at Ultrashield recommends using the 3M Prestige 70EX or Prestige 40EX, as suggested by Mohammad and Blake at Design Tints. 3M Prestige 70EX is transparent and will adhere to the glass, making it a discreet solution to reduce external reflection on artificial grass, Prestige 40EX is however a darker tint film and more noticeable as being a tint on the glass. Also being a darker tint, there are factors to consider to avoid adding heat stress to the glass (like age and type of glass and shading). For additional support, you may also consider reaching out to Sean or Conrad at Frosted Glass by Design, Candice at EcoTint or Chris at GlassProtech, all of whom are knowledgeable 3M engineers and would be able to advise the best film option based on the application.
Other cost-effective alternatives include installing screens with shade screens, meshes like those used for mosquito nets, reflective paint, or awnings. These options can help to reduce the amount of sun that falls on the artificial grass and reduce the risk of melting.
Tip 2 – Nylon 220
If you have windows or doors with low-emissivity glass, it is recommended to opt for synthetic nylon grass, specifically the Nylon 220 variety, for the entire surrounding area. Nylon 220 boasts a higher melting point of 220 degrees Celsius, as opposed to polyethylene grass that can start to melt at temperatures as low as 80 degrees Celsius. This type of artificial grass provides a secure solution against melting, even in the face of high temperatures from sun reflection. You can place an order for Nylon 220 at Eco Lawn, and they’ll work on a custom order just for you.
It’s worth mentioning that the problem is not with the synthetic grass or its installation, but rather with the vinyl or aluminum barriers, and windows or doors with low energy consumption glass. By taking the necessary precautions and using the appropriate materials, you can ensure your artificial grass remains in pristine condition for years to come.
Tip 3 – Melting Issue Due Vinyl Fences
If the cause of the melting issue is due to the presence of vinyl fences around the artificial grass installation area, there is a simple and cost-effective solution. Ensure that you leave a meter or so of garden space parallel to the vinyl structure, so that the sun’s reflection lands on the ground, decorative stones, or mulch instead of directly on the artificial grass. This way, you can effectively avoid the problem of sun reflection melting your synthetic lawn.
In Conclusion
it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks that sun reflection can pose to your artificial grass. At Eco Lawn, we are committed to helping our customers prevent any such issues by offering top tips and solutions. The top three tips we have shared include considering cost-effective alternatives to nylon grass, opting for Nylon 220 synthetic grass, and leaving a meter of garden space parallel to vinyl fences. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained artificial lawn for years to come. Additionally, for support with anti-reflective film, you can contact experts such as Jason from Ultrashield, Mohammad or Blake at Design Tints, Sean or Conrad from Frosted Glass by Design, Candice from EcoTint, and Chris from GlassProtech. With these resources, you can ensure that your artificial grass is protected from sun reflection damage.
