The increasing use of energy-efficient building materials has introduced an unintended consequence for outdoor landscaping, particularly for synthetic turf. This problem is known as “turf burn” or “solar reflection damage,” occurring when sunlight is intensely concentrated onto a localized area. This concentrated heat, often called solar gain, is powerful enough to melt the plastic fibers of artificial grass.
Understanding the Cause of Turf Burn
The primary cause of this intense, localized heat is the design of modern Low-E (low-emissivity) windows. These windows feature a microscopic coating, typically a thin layer of metal oxide, that is engineered to reflect infrared light and heat outward.
However, the slight curvature or angle of installation in double or triple-pane windows can cause this reflected sunlight to converge into a focused beam. The focal point of this concentrated light can quickly raise the surface temperature of the artificial turf.
Synthetic turf fibers, commonly made from materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, have a relatively low melting point, generally ranging from \(160\) to \(180\) degrees Fahrenheit. The focused solar energy reflected from Low-E glass can easily generate temperatures exceeding \(200\) degrees Fahrenheit in the hot spot. This temperature is sufficient to melt, warp, or permanently distort the plastic blades of the turf.
Window-Applied Mitigation Strategies
Modifying the window surface is often the most direct and effective method for disrupting the concentrated light beam. The goal of these applications is to diffuse the light, scattering the intense reflection over a much wider area.
One solution involves the application of specialized perforated vinyl window films to the exterior of the glass. These films work by breaking the single, concentrated light path into countless smaller, harmless streams. They maintain a relatively clear view from the interior while drastically reducing the solar reflectivity of the window.
External solar screens or mesh screens offer a similar light-diffusing effect by physically intercepting the sunlight before it reaches the glass. These exterior-mounted screens are typically made of a dense fabric mesh that covers the entire window, reducing the amount of light that hits the reflective Low-E coating.
Property owners can also use specialized, non-reflective coatings or exterior-grade tints designed to absorb light rather than reflect it. These coatings are distinct from traditional reflective films and are formulated to minimize outward glare. To maintain the window’s integrity, the application of these specialized films and coatings often requires professional installation.
Structural and Landscaping Solutions
For situations where modification of the window glass is not possible, structural and landscaping methods can protect the turf by blocking or diverting the reflected light. These strategies focus on creating a physical barrier between the concentrated beam and the vulnerable turf area.
Architectural solutions like installing awnings, pergolas, or overhangs on the exterior of the house can effectively shade the window during peak sun hours. This prevents the sun’s rays from striking the glass at the angle that causes maximum concentration. The size and positioning of the structure must be carefully calculated to cover the specific time of day the reflection occurs.
Strategic landscaping involves planting dense trees, tall shrubs, or hedges between the reflective window and the artificial turf to create a biological screen. These plants should be positioned to grow tall enough to block the path of the reflected light, shading the ground where the damage typically occurs.
Physical barriers, such as tall privacy screens or decorative fences, can be placed strategically within the reflection zone. These structures absorb the intense heat before it reaches the turf. The synthetic turf in the specific area where the focal point lands can be replaced with alternative, heat-resistant materials like concrete pavers, decorative gravel, or mulch.