Artificial turf, known to many as astro turf, is a fantastic option for homeowners who want to enjoy a lush, green lawn without the hassle of maintenance.
While most may think their new turf is sunburn-free, we’re here to point out otherwise. Many are unaware of a hidden threat that could damage their investment: the sun’s reflection off energy-efficient windows. This phenomenon of window glare can reflect the sun’s rays back outside, causing artificial grass heat damage, leading to unsightly patches and potentially costly repairs.
Don’t let your turf melt in the Texas heat! Take a look at how residential window tinting from Sun Masters DFW can help prevent artificial turf from melting.
Understanding the Melting Issue
Energy-efficient windows are designed to reflect sunlight, keeping homes cooler and reducing energy costs. However, this reflection can become concentrated and act like a magnifying glass, intensifying the sun’s rays to the point where they can cause artificial turf to melt.
This heat intensity occurs when windows, especially Low-E (low emissivity) types, reflect a substantial amount of infrared and ultraviolet light while allowing visible light to pass through.
When this reflected light is concentrated onto a small area, such as artificial turf, it amplifies the sun’s rays, much like how a magnifying glass focuses sunlight into a beam of intense heat. This concentrated heat can easily surpass the melting point of synthetic materials like polyethylene or polypropylene used in artificial grass, leading to melting, warping, and discoloration. The high temperatures generated by this intensified glare are often enough to cause severe damage to surfaces that would otherwise be resilient under normal sun exposure.
What Temperature Does Artificial Turf Melt At?
The turf, typically made from polyethylene or polypropylene, can withstand a lot of wear and tear but not the intense heat generated by these reflections. This issue is particularly prevalent with low-E (low emissivity) windows, which are designed to reflect infrared and ultraviolet light while letting visible light pass through.
While beneficial for indoor temperature control, the concentrated heat reflected can exceed 175 degrees Fahrenheit, with the melting point of most synthetic turfs being 175 – 200.
Identifying the Culprit
If you’ve noticed your artificial turf looks a little “gummy” or generally worse for wear, it’s critical to know why it’s happening. Before taking preventive measures, survey your home’s exterior for any reflective surfaces, particularly windows.
Notice where the sun’s rays hit your turf during the hottest parts of the day. You can use a thermometer to measure the surface temperature of these areas. If temperatures are exceedingly high, likely exceeding 175 degrees Fahrenheit, your windows are likely why your turf is melting.
Preventing Artificial Turf Melting
While we’ll explain why window tinting is the most effective way to prevent this issue, there are other measures you can take to protect your turf.
Install Awnings or Screens
More shade is never a bad idea. Installing more awnings and screens around your windows can provide additional shade and reduce the amount of direct sunlight hitting your windows and, subsequently, your turf.
Reposition Reflective Objects
While there’s not much you can do about the placement of your turf, you can move around other objects that can be heat conduits! Be mindful of other reflective surfaces like barbecue grills, metallic lawn decorations, or mirrors. Reposition them if they are contributing to the problem.
Landscaping Solutions
Alongside adding tinted windows to your solutions, you could also put your lawn in Mother Nature’s hands. Planting trees or installing other shade forms can help diffuse sunlight before it reaches your turf.
Solutions From Sun Masters DFW
As you can see, not only can you get sunburnt through your windows, but your turf can also suffer permanent damage!
Window tinting is an effective solution to prevent the reflection of intense heat onto your Astro Turf. Sun Masters DFW offers specialized window films that significantly reduce glare and diffuse the sun’s rays. These films work by breaking up the concentrated reflections, lowering the heat intensity that reaches your artificial grass.
Our quality residential window film is designed to protect your home from the inside out. It acts like a perforated screen, reducing glare without obstructing your view.
When our window tint is applied to the exterior of your windows, particularly on the sides that reflect sunlight onto your turf, this simple yet effective solution ensures that your artificial grass remains pristine, free from the risk of melting.
What Are the Biggest Benefits of Window Tinting?
Aside from protecting your turf from getting wrecked by the heat, window tinting from Sun Masters DFW can help you reap some of the biggest benefits of our industry year-round.
Protection for Your Investment
Installing window tint can prevent expensive interior damage associated with items near your home’s windows. Our tint can help you prevent expensive repairs and replacements and keep your home beautiful and intact.
Energy Efficiency
While protecting your turf, window tinting also enhances your home’s energy efficiency. It reduces the heat entering your home, keeping it cooler and reducing air conditioning costs.
Enhanced Comfort
Window tinting improves indoor comfort by minimizing glare, making it easier to enjoy natural light without harsh brightness.
Aesthetic Appeal
Window films and shades we provide come in various shades and finishes, allowing you to maintain or even enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home.
Schedule Window Film Installation Today with Sun Masters DFW
Protecting your artificial turf from melting is crucial to maintaining its appearance and longevity. By investing in window tinting from Sun Masters DFW, you can safeguard your turf against the damaging effects of reflected sunlight.
Our quality solution protects your investment and enhances your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. If you’re experiencing issues with melting turf or want to prevent them in the future, contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards preserving your beautiful lawn.