The question, “Do you have to water artificial turf?” has a nuanced answer: No, you do not need to water it for growth, but water is necessary for maintenance and safety. Unlike natural grass, synthetic turf is a non-living surface. Water applied to artificial grass serves mechanical and physical functions, focused on hygiene, temperature control, and preserving the aesthetic integrity of the installation.
The Purpose of Watering Artificial Turf
Watering artificial turf is not irrigation but functional maintenance. A light, periodic rinse helps flush away fine debris like dust, dirt, and pollen that accumulate on the synthetic fibers and infill material. This practice is beneficial for maintaining a clean appearance and controlling dust, especially in dry climates or areas near construction.
Water also plays a role in the performance of the infill, the granular material placed between the turf blades to provide cushioning and support. During installation, watering helps the infill, such as silica sand or specialized granules, settle correctly between the fibers. Over time, a light watering helps the infill re-settle after heavy foot traffic, which keeps the synthetic blades standing upright for a more natural appearance.
Managing Surface Heat
A primary use of water on synthetic turf is to reduce its surface temperature. Artificial grass fibers, typically made from polymer materials like polyethylene, absorb and retain heat from the sun more effectively than natural grass. On a hot day, artificial turf surfaces can reach temperatures 35 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit hotter than natural grass, potentially soaring past 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Applying water provides an immediate, temporary cooling effect through evaporation. The water absorbs heat energy from the turf fibers and the infill as it changes from a liquid to a gas, a process similar to how human perspiration cools the skin. This rapid cooling temporarily reduces the risk of burns and makes the surface comfortable for children and pets to walk on.
Some modern infills, such as those treated with specialized coatings, store moisture from rain or a hose and release it slowly through evaporation when the surface temperature rises. This technology can reduce the surface temperature significantly, sometimes up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to untreated turf. For general residential use, a simple hose-down about 30 minutes before use on a hot afternoon is often sufficient for cooling.
Essential Maintenance and Sanitation
Water is the primary tool for maintaining a hygienic and odor-free artificial lawn, especially in areas frequented by pets. Pet urine can leave behind ammonia that gets trapped in the turf and infill, leading to unpleasant smells. A dedicated rinse with a garden hose is necessary to dilute and flush the liquid waste down through the turf’s perforated backing and into the drainage layer beneath.
For solid pet waste, the material should be picked up first, and then the affected area should be thoroughly rinsed with water to remove any lingering residue. Regular rinsing prevents the buildup of bacteria and the concentration of odors embedded in the fibers and infill. In high-use pet areas, daily rinsing of urine-affected spots is recommended to prevent persistent odor problems.
The frequency of sanitation depends heavily on the area’s use and the climate. Even without pets, a periodic deep rinse is beneficial for washing away airborne contaminants and organic matter like spilled drinks or food debris.