Yes, you can use washed and kiln-dried beach sand for artificial grass infill.
Understanding Artificial Grass Infill
Artificial grass infill is the material placed between the blades of synthetic grass. It serves several important functions:
- Provides stability and support to the artificial grass blades.
- Helps the grass stand upright.
- Protects the backing material from wear and tear.
- Can improve the feel and performance of the grass surface.
Why Beach Sand?
According to the provided reference, beach sand, specifically, needs to be properly prepared before being used as infill:
- Washed: The sand must be thoroughly washed to remove impurities like salt, dirt, and organic matter. Salt can be corrosive and harm the synthetic materials.
- Kiln-Dried: It is essential to kiln dry the washed sand. This process removes all moisture, preventing clumping and the growth of mold and mildew.
Using Beach Sand Correctly
Here are the steps for using beach sand as infill:
- Source Clean Sand: Acquire beach sand that is suitable and not contaminated.
- Wash Thoroughly: Remove any impurities by washing the sand with water.
- Kiln-Dry: Use a kiln or other method to fully dry the sand. Wet sand will not function correctly as infill.
- Apply Evenly: Spread the sand evenly over the artificial grass surface using the appropriate tools.
- Brush In: Work the sand down into the grass blades using a stiff brush.
Alternative Infill Materials
While washed and kiln-dried beach sand is a viable option, other materials are commonly used as infill, especially in combination with sand. These include:
- Performance Infill: This is designed specifically for artificial grass and can offer enhanced performance characteristics, such as better cushioning or reduced heat retention. It is usually used in combination with sand as seen in the diagram reference.
Considerations
- Type of Artificial Grass: The type of infill you need will depend on the pile height and overall purpose of the artificial grass. Long pile synthetic grass often uses a combination of sand and performance infill.
- Maintenance: Infill, including sand, may need to be topped up periodically due to natural movement and settling.
| Material | Description | Preparation Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Washed Beach Sand | Natural sand, needs to be processed for infill use | Must be washed to remove impurities, then kiln-dried. |
| Performance Infill | Designed for specific performance qualities | Generally ready to use, but may be mixed with sand for optimal results. |
