But it’s so important for kids to engage in physical activity, and we know that more choices result in higher engagement when it comes to sports.
Sports have always been an important part of the school curriculum, particularly in New Zealand and Australia. Aside from the obvious health benefits, physical activities and challenges help kids’ development, and can even support their academic progress.
Synthetic turf enables schools to offer a greater range of sports games, so their students have a greater choice.
TigerTurf artificial grass sports and landscape turfs have been adding value to primary and secondary schools around the country for over thirty years. Schools are seeing the benefits of synthetic turf for a range of applications, keeping costs and maintenance to a minimum while maximising the use of precious (and often limited) space.
Suitable for:
Multi-sport courts expand the usability of sports facilities and increase the number of students playing sports on one sports turf.
The versatility of top-quality multi-sport surfaces benefits schools in several ways:
Suitable for:
A natural grass field can cause headaches for schools, drying out to hard, dusty, and often slippery summer surfaces, and becoming muddy mires in the winter months just when they are in demand.
Constant maintenance is required to keep these fields playable and safe: mowing, rolling, spraying, irrigating, drainage, and re-applying marking paint.
It’s no surprise, then, that international football and hockey are now often played on artificial grass turfs, and practice facilities use synthetic grass for consistent playing conditions that are not dependent upon the weather.
Field sports turfs closely resemble natural grass pitches, but offer more benefits for schools:
Suitable for:
Hockey is tremendously popular in schools and the community. Investing in an all-weather top-quality hockey pitch adds lasting value to your school.
Years of research and consultation resulted in the development of TigerTurf WETT Pro and Evo Pro, both world-class hockey surfaces recognised by the international hockey community for their star qualities. Both can be used wet or dry.
TigerTurf’s Trophy is another excellent hockey surface, which is also accredited for tennis. All are extremely durable, high-performance multi-sport synthetic turfs, accredited by ITF and FIH.
Some tangible benefits of field and court turf for your school include:
Suitable for:
Cricket wickets were one of the first turfs TigerTurf developed when we started business in 1981.
For over 40 years, TigerTurf has specialised in synthetic turf cricket wickets, responding to changes within the game, and in consultation with the cricket community. We produce synthetic cricket surfaces for every level of play, from junior schools to international levels.
Projects include cricket wickets, batting cages, bowlers’ run-ups, outfields, indoor cricket facilities with practice nets, and cricket winter covers.
For schools fielding teams at a national standard, indoor cricket training wickets allow early morning and evening coaching sessions undercover all year round.
Indoor cricket training wickets can also be designed to accommodate coaching sessions for netball, volleyball, tennis, and football.
The same field can also accommodate athletics with sprint tracks, long jumps, and permanently marked-up running tracks around the perimeter.
Suitable for:
TigerPlay and our other playground surfaces are practical, all-weather systems that can include colourful graphics and activities on the surface itself.
These graphics and activities are designed by the school and TigerTurf to provide learning opportunities, aid in the development of physical skills, and encourage interactive play amongst groups of students.
With minimal care, our colourful playgrounds remain bright and cheerful for years of daily use, safe for children in sunshine or rain, and irresistible for even the shyest students.
TigerTurf playground surfaces can be laid underneath playground equipment with special cushioning pads beneath the surface. These have been tested against “Critical Fall Height” regulations to provide “soft fall” for up to 3 metres.
Our playground surfaces exceed government safety standards, and we take particular care with the safety of all playgrounds we install in schools and playgrounds.
Suitable for:
TigerTurf landscaped lawns are the answer to many school ground woes.
Deceptively hardy, TigerTurf landscape lawns make once dull, scuffed shabby areas functional and beautiful. Envy XWR 35 is an attractive yet durable landscape grass that TigerTurf has developed for just this purpose. Students and staff find our landscape settings relaxing and refreshing for tired minds.
TigerTurf synthetic lawns offer many benefits that overcome the problems related to natural grass in busy school grounds such as worn, muddy areas, debris carried indoors, or lack of outdoor chill-out zones for students. Our landscape grasses can replace hard surfaces with lush green lawns inviting students to relax with a book, chat with friends or perhaps finish homework.
A TigerTurf synthetic lawn is also a practical area for classroom group work, creating a gentle ambience conducive to peaceful discussion.
TigerTurf’s landscape lawns are perfect alongside fields and pools, and along banks for comfortable, informal seating for spectators and alfresco theatre practices and productions, while harmonising with the natural landscape.
Did you know that you can customise your turf in just about any way you like?
Increasingly, we’re seeing schools embrace the option of adding their school logo and motto to their synthetic turf playgrounds and sports fields.
It’s popular for a reason: these areas usually occupy a rather visible space on the school grounds, so customising them yields a number of benefits:
Ask TigerTurf to advise you on the right synthetic sports system for your school. Our long-lasting synthetic turfs have been designed for playing performance at the top level of every sport.
Some of our products are specialised for particular sports, others have been manufactured with the qualities required for several sports, designed for schools, family courts, and community sports clubs.
]]>With over 2000 lawn bowl clubs in Australia and over 500 in New Zealand, it’s time to investigate alternative surfaces.
If you’re thinking of upgrading your bowling green, read on! In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using artificial grass for your next bowling green surface.
Natural grass bowling greens can require a lot of maintenance, including:
Smaller bowling clubs might find that the costs of keeping their bowling greens in top condition for play really add up. When you’re juggling the intricacies of running a club, finding a way to save both time and money is a huge priority.
That’s when an artificial bowling surface is a smart choice: it’s incredibly low maintenance and low cost once installed – leaving more money in the coffers for other things. Clubs can use the money saved from maintenance costs to invest in upgrading their facility.
There is nothing worse than trying to roll on a waterlogged green. An artificial bowling green turf is designed with drainage in mind.
Effective drainage ensures the water doesn’t pool on the playing surface. The bowls travel with increased speed on a well-drained surface improving the speed and enjoyment of the game.
As soon as the wet weather clears your players can get straight back into rolling smooth bowls without getting stuck in puddles!
It’s no secret that natural grass bowling greens are at the mercy of the Australian and New Zealand climates. They can be reduced to puddles in the winter and baked hard under the harsh summer sun. And the results can be reduced playing hours, especially over the winter months, and reduced revenue intakes from the clubhouse.
It’s happened before: nippy south island weather had taken its toll on the Arrowtown Bowling Club’s green. They upgraded their bowling green and can now enjoy the finest game of bowls with their members and visitors, no matter the weather.
Artificial turf can withstand ever-changing weather conditions, without losing its playability. After upgrading your bowling green surface to artificial turf, the only thing that will stop you from spending time out playing is your tolerance to the weather conditions.
Described as “the Rolls Royce of synthetic playing surfaces” by Peter Smith, Rangiora’s Bowling Club vice-president, an artificial bowling green turf gives your members the optimal playing surface they deserve.
A bowling green turf gives players a completely flat and level playing space with predictable bowl speed. While natural grass is susceptible to dips and troughs as the ground moves and shifts, a properly installed artificial green remains consistently leveled.
As long as the foundation has been laid evenly, players can enjoy even rolls up and down the green, without worrying about shifts in the ground.
Your players deserve consistent conditions to perfect their rolls on, and the technical qualities of an artificial green itself can be used effectively by skillful bowlers. As their skills develop, your club will reap the rewards of accolades and tournament wins.
A game of indoor bowls is becoming increasingly popular as players can play any time of the year, with no chance of the game being postponed due to the weather.
It seems obvious that natural grass would be unsuitable for indoor bowls. The conditions inside are less than ideal for living grass to thrive. There is often no sunlight and no effective drainage.
On the flip side, while artificial grass effectively replicates the role of natural grass for bowls players, it doesn’t require sunlight or any other elements to stay in great condition.
The advances in artificial turf mean your club members can appreciate the look and feel of natural grass without any of the drawbacks. Low maintenance, optimum conditions, and easy on the joints – you can’t ask for much more.
Players and spectators alike can enjoy a vibrant bowling green surface that is free from bare or dead patches – all year round.
If your club is ready to upgrade its bowling green surface, contact our professional team, and let’s discuss your options.
]]>If you have a tennis court that looks like it has seen better days, it may be time to consider resurfacing.
If you don’t know where to start with resurfacing your tennis court, then you are in the right place! We have compiled a guide with everything you need to know about upgrading your tennis court surface.
Read on!
For a residential tennis court, resurfacing can bring life to your backyard and add value to your property. A well-maintained tennis court can provide you with a multi-purpose space that you can use for entertaining and sport.
Resurfacing commercial tennis courts at sports clubs and schools provides many benefits, including:
Your tennis court’s surface lifespan is hard to determine because some surfaces last longer than others. Hard courts with acrylic finishes may last between 4 – 7 years, while artificial turf that is well maintained may last for 15+ years.
The durability of your tennis court surface also depends on a range of other factors, including the quality of the materials, the maintenance routines, and the levels of use.
It is time to consider resurfacing your tennis court when you notice issues that are impacting gameplay and compromising the safety of the players.
Tennis court surface issues to keep an eye out for:
If you notice these issues are occurring, it is likely time to resurface your tennis court.
The cost of upgrading your tennis court surface depends on which system you choose, ease of access and the size of your area.
There are many different tennis court surfaces/systems:
Every surface has different benefits, costs and levels of maintenance.
Check out our blog comparing all the different tennis court surfaces here.
The time between resurfacing your tennis court can be extended if the proper steps are taken.
It starts at the base. Ensuring your tennis court has a good foundation can prolong the life of your outdoor area. Proper compaction and an adequate drainage slope stop the surface from slipping or shifting on top as it is being used.
Proper installation and construction of your tennis court also extends the time between resurfacing. You can engage professional help to ensure a good foundation and an effective drainage system is installed at the same time – this minimises the amount of flooding on your tennis court surface. If the moisture is draining effectively from the surface, the growth of mould, mildew, and weeds will minimise.
Regular maintenance also helps to extend the time between resurfacing.
Maintenance for your tennis court includes:
Resurfacing a tennis court is a process best done by professionals. It requires specialist knowledge and equipment. Getting it right from the start will ensure the surface of your tennis court lasts the test of time.
Initially, the top layer will be removed, and the base will be inspected. During this phase, the professionals will check the base for any imperfections such as cracking, shifting or displacement. The drainage system will also be evaluated.
The artificial turf or another tennis court surface will be relayed once all cracks are sealed, and drainage issues resolved.
You will then be able to enjoy your resurfaced turf.
For more information about tennis court surfaces or assistance to resurface your tennis court, get in contact with our team here.
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But what should you consider when you’re choosing a surface for your own backyard?
Discover what works for you by comparing maintenance routines, costs, and uses of each type of grass.
Let’s see how these two options stack up!
The upfront price of getting soil, seeds, or fresh grass, is relatively low. This project can be completed by yourself with little to no professional help, making it an excellent option for the budget-conscious.
If you enjoy spending your weekends in the garden and caring for your outdoor areas, then a natural lawn is a good option for you. A well-maintained natural lawn has the potential to last for years to come.
With a natural lawn, what you put in is what you get out. If you’re prepared to spend the necessary time weeding, watering, and mowing your lawn, you’ll be rewarded with a luscious green paradise to enjoy.
For a lush-looking lawn, you’ll spend countless hours manicuring it to perfection. For time-poor individuals, a natural lawn may not be the simplest solution.
Natural lawn maintenance includes:
To get the most out of your lawn, ensure your soil is at the right PH level and choose a seed blend that matches your local climate. This will slightly reduce the amount of fertilising, watering, and overseeding necessary for maintaining your backyard.
With a high maintenance routine comes high maintenance costs.
Lawnmowers, weed whackers, and line trimmers can be expensive to buy and operate. To counter this, try hiring a local landscaper. Beware: while this option has a low initial cost, it can add up over time.
Regular fertiliser and seed can be another recurring cost that homeowners overlook when choosing a natural grass backyard.
A natural lawn is quite literally alive, so it requires a lot of water. During the winter months, this isn’t much of a problem. But during the summer months, especially if you live in a drought-prone area, watering your lawn becomes more of a necessity. If neglected, instead of a vibrant green outdoor space, you’re left with a brown, dusty backyard.
The runoff from chemical fertilisers and weed treatments may contaminate the surrounding areas. What’s more, the large volumes of water used to maintain a natural lawn significantly impact the environment. In some areas of New Zealand and Australia, you will find yourself unable to water your backyard during certain months, as water must be conserved for drinking and washing.
Unfortunately, your natural lawn will be the first to feel the negative impacts of water restrictions.
While artificial grass is not maintenance-free, it requires significantly less maintenance than natural grass. Spend more time enjoying your weekends with family rather than mowing, watering, and weeding your lawn.
See our five simple steps for maintaining artificial grass in your backyard.
The low maintenance characteristics of artificial grass make it an eco-friendly option. Artificial grass uses significantly less water to maintain than natural lawn. As there is no need to mow it, the carbon emissions from lawnmowers are non-existent. There is little to no risk of chemical pollution from fertilisers, as artificial grass doesn’t need help growing.
Enjoy a luscious green lawn all year round. Artificial grass now comes in a range of variations to keep your property looking its best. You can enjoy the feel and look of natural grass without the hassle of keeping up with it.
Check out our natural lawn alternatives here.
You can customise your backyard to suit you and your family’s needs. Whether you are a sport mad, crazy about pets, or enjoy relaxing outside, an artificial lawn can help you create a backyard you love hanging out in.
Artificial grass can help you create:
Relish in a unique backyard that reflects you and your family with bright or multicoloured artificial grass.
The initial cost of setting up an artificial lawn can seem expensive. The costs of acquiring the materials, leveling the base, and getting professional guidance quickly add up when designing your backyard.
However, you’ll find that you will save costs just as quickly. By no longer paying for fertiliser or equipment to maintain your lawn, you can enjoy a little extra pocket change in the long run.
While you will enjoy the longevity and durability of artificial grass, eventually, it will need to be replaced. Artificial grass generally has a life expectancy of approximately 15 years, but many have lasted much longer. Depending on your level of use, you can expect your artificial lawn to last for 10 to 15 years.
This allows you to change the design of your backyard periodically to keep up with trends and preferences or add in some new eye-catching features.
For more help designing a backyard with artificial grass that works for you, get in contact with our team.
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Many dog owners we speak to have reservations about laying artificial grass for their garden, fearful that their pets won’t like it.
But the truth is, we’ve lost count of the number of homeowners who’ve told us how happy their pet is with artificial grass. Perhaps they appreciate the soft dry surface of our landscape lawns, so much nicer than harsh concrete runs, muddy and dusty soil, or – worse still – gravel.
Artificial lawns will not become unpleasantly hot for pets to lie on, although they will, of course, need shade in the heat of the day.
It depends on the grass: all artificial lawns are not equal!
At TigerTurf, our synthetic lawn turfs are manufactured from the same top-quality components as our renowned sports turfs, which are utterly hammered by the world’s best sports players day after day.
If the world’s top athletes can’t destroy it, then your pets won’t either.
Animal urine is high in nitrogen, which burns natural grass, killing the blades and causing unsightly brown patches on your natural green lawn.
Synthetic grass is not discoloured by the nitrogen. No matter what your pets leave behind, your artificial lawn will look beautiful as ever.
What’s more, the cleaning routine for artificial grass is swift and easy: just hose it down. Regularly hosing the area is a sensible hygiene practice anyway to avoid any lingering smell of urine.
In some cases, your pet may choose to use one area of your lawn as its toilet all of the time creating an area of high concentration urine creating a noticeable smell. In this instance, TigerTurf has a product that we sell that breaks down the urea eliminating the smells.
Clean up the number twos, just as you would anyway, then hose the surface down to wash away any residue.
If correctly installed, and you have taken expert advice with regard to the appropriate synthetic grass, the surface will drain freely in rain, and water will wash away through the base when you are hosing the surface to refresh the artificial lawn.
Again, this depends on the grass and the manufacturer. Some synthetic turfs contain elements that may harm your pets, but ours don’t!
All TigerTurf products are lead-free. We use the highest quality yarns, from our parent company TenCate, which contain no toxic properties. Because we know where our yarns are manufactured, we can guarantee the safety of the yarns that go into our products. This may not necessarily be the case with all synthetic turf surfaces so it is best to check the yarns’ origins.
Furthermore, synthetic turf has no need for expensive and harmful chemicals, fertilizers, or pesticides. It does not need mowing, and no grass clipping to be carried indoors by children and pets.
There are no chemicals required in the care of manufactured lawns, and overall maintenance is much simpler and less time-consuming than caring for natural grass.
Fleas and ticks struggle to become established on the surface of synthetic grass.
While artificial pet grass won’t completely eliminate pests, it does greatly reduce them. They simply can not live inside the blades of synthetic turf – and of course, there is no soil for them to nest in.
Parasites such as fleas and ticks can live in natural lawns, making it very difficult to control the cycle of egg, larva, pupa, adult flea, or tick. But these blood-sucking parasites are not attracted to synthetic grass, solving a major problem for you, and for your pets and children.
A synthetic lawn is a healthy, dry surface for dogs and cats.
Artificial lawns are much the same as natural lawns. Your pets will enjoy artificial turf just as much as real grass – but without all the dirt, mess, and ruined lawns.
So, with a book in hand, a glass beside your deck chair, you can be part of family time outdoors in your own version of paradise.
You can choose from a number of different surfaces:
The rich, natural green of TigerTurf Envy makes a smooth, formal lawn – restful and cool, especially in hot climates. The 35mm height pile is recommended when your lawn is to be shared with pets. You’ll find the shorter pile a little easier to keep clean.
TigerTurf Summer Envy has a warm bronze glow that creates a relaxed ambience your pets will love. You will particularly appreciate the easy-care, easy living style of synthetic lawn too.
We strongly recommend our TigerTurf Summer Envy 35 XWR landscape lawn for family fun. Similar to Summer Envy, with our most durable yarn fibre woven into the lawn surface, this surface would be a good choice if you are lucky enough to have more than one dog, or if yours is a larger dog.
TigerTurf’s installation always includes effective drainage of the surface, so you’ll find it easy to hose clean, after removing droppings.
Is your dog destroying your lawn? Put an end to endless lawn maintenance today with TigerTurf synthetic lawn. Your pet will love you for it.
Talk to us about our synthetic grass options for pet owners.
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At TigerTurf, we’re designers and manufacturers of artificial football turfs So read on to find our top five benefits of playing on football turf!
It is no secret that football is at the mercy of the climate. Blaring hot summers, wet winters, snow, and dusty wind can cause natural football fields to be baked hard or reduced to a pool of mud.
Artificial turf is designed to withstand the ups and downs of all climatic conditions. Gone are the days of spectators being ankle-deep in sideline puddles, and never again will you find yourself caked with mud.
Less impact from the weather = more time enjoying the game you love.
Every year football games are postponed or cancelled due to issues related to the weather. Entire seasons are interrupted, and players miss out on important game time. With artificial football turf, players and spectators can enjoy the thrill of a quality football match no matter the weather, without worrying about taking the pitch home with them.
Read about the success of artificial football turf from SportNZ.
Football turfs provide an even and consistent playing surface, without the obstacles associated with natural grass.
The non-directional surface of artificial turf provides secure footing and consistent ball control so the player can perform at their best.
Variations in natural turfs that impact gameplay include:
Professional players regularly get to enjoy a perfectly manicured pitch, but maintenance can fall by the wayside for amateur and club teams. This is because the high cost and high effort level that is required to keep natural pitches in perfect condition is often unaffordable for small clubs.
With synthetic football turf, a surface that is comparable to well-maintained natural turf can be achieved. This means that players can enjoy a perfect playing surface, every time.
Play the game with speed and accuracy, every time.
Artificial football surfaces are designed with player safety in mind.
The even terrain and consistency of play means players should suffer fewer trips, stumbles, and falls, minimizing the risk of serious injuries that could leave players off the fields for weeks at a time.
The turf system stops players from slipping and sliding everywhere. This minimizes the likelihood of tendon rips or tears, ensuring football players can keep enjoying the game they love without time off.
Injuries related to abrupt stops and stuck cleats are reduced, as players can wear a range of shoes on the artificial turf. Players may prefer to play football in specially designed flat shoes.
To minimize the long-term impact on joints, shock pads can be installed underneath the turf. This provides players of all levels and ages the comfort to continue enjoying football, fitness, and fun.
The surface of an artificial football turf is incredibly durable. Because it’s made of top-quality materials, the turf is unaffected by varying weather conditions.
The durability of artificial turf ensures they can withstand thousands of hours of use without impacting the quality.
For your club or school, this means players can train at their home pitch consistently. This gives players the opportunity to develop and grow football skills that set your team apart, in an environment that is comfortable and supportive.
Compare the durability of tiger turf artificial football pitches options here.
Due to the lower maintenance costs of the artificial football turfs, clubs and schools can redirect that money back into projects that benefit their community. Additional revenue can be derived from hiring out space to other groups, as it’s accessible year-round.
The additional revenue can be reinvested into:
It all adds up to contribute to players, spectators, and community members’ sense of belonging and pride. This in turn positively impacts your club or school’s reputation.
Let’s chat about how we can upgrade your football pitch so you can enjoy all the benefits of an artificial football turf in your community. You can get in contact here.
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Atop residential homes, rooftop spaces are like secret extensions to the house. For both residential apartments, commercial businesses, or entertainment businesses like bars or shopping malls, rooftops make a popular break-out space.
With some attentive design, a rooftop can be made the defining feature of a building. They offer a huge scope of recreational opportunities – dining, exhibitions, live music, and much more can take place atop a roof.
The best part? Well, it’s usually the view.
The rooftop recreation space should be an extension of your lifestyle or the style of the building. No matter what it’s being used for, it’s important to get the mood and atmosphere of the space just right.
In this article, we will walk you through the main things to consider when decorating your rooftop recreational area, and how synthetic grass can be a welcome and sophisticated addition to your design.
Read more about installing artificial turf on rooftops here
The way your rooftop recreation area will look depends on what you’ll be using it for. Is it for action, relaxation, or both? Is it for eating, for dancing, for playing, or all of the above? Knowing the use is key to specifying the correct turf to do the job and go the distance.
Some design aspects will hold true no matter what you’re using the space for. Plants and greenery, for example, are an absolute must.
Creating different rooftop zones
It’s unlikely that you’ll be using the rooftop space for one purpose only. Perhaps you want it primarily for lawn games, like petanque and mini-putt, but you’ll also need an area for downtime.
You can create different ‘zones’ by playing around with materials and heights, based on how you intend the space to be used. You might be surprised by how many zones you can create, even with a small area.
Insert image of mixed application grass types, maybe short pile putting green surrounded by long-pile landscape turf.
There are many things to consider when it comes to flooring on a rooftop:
If you like a natural wood look, why not combine traditional decking options with grass for a complete outdoor look.
If you want to maximise the greenery, artificial grass is the way to go. It’s easily installed (not to mention provides great drainage if installed correctly), it’s weather-resistant, and it’s easy to maintain.
Using artificial turf on your rooftop also gives you the opportunity to include additional features, like a golf putting green or other lawn games.
You don’t have to pick just one – flooring materials are a great way to delineate zones. You might combine wood flooring with artificial grass to separate a dining area from a recreation zone.
Typical landscape or lawn grass tends to be longer pile, more realistic looking, and making the space look very appealing. Ideal as a surface for chilling but not ideal if the plan is to use the space as an exercise area. In this instance, a short pile dense product will wear better, be better to exercise on, and show less signs of flattening and wear and tear over time.
Shade is a must in a rooftop environment. The roof may be your best opportunity for access to the outdoors, but it’s important to make sure you’re protected from the sun and the heat.
Plenty of options exist to add shade to a rooftop. If you want to be able to transform the space from day to night in a jiffy, umbrellas are an excellent solution. Another idea is to create a framing structure that shade cloths, curtains, or string lights can be hung from.
Other ways to create shade include:
Human beings have an innate need for green spaces – that’s why cities often have parks amid their concrete and man-made structures.
A rooftop doesn’t suit just any plant. You’ll need to choose trees and plants that can hold up through different weather conditions. Choose plants that happily exist outdoors – any beach plants, for example, make good options.
Top tips for adding greenery to your rooftop area:
Lighting your rooftop recreation space isn’t an issue during the day, but at night, clever lighting can be nothing short of transformative.
Top tips for rooftop lighting:
Make your rooftop pop!
Depending on the mood you aim to set, include some elements that set the rooftop apart from the main building. You might add a hammock, a special coloured light, a sculpture, or a water feature.
Including a games area – like a lawn games zone, or an artificial putting green – will add an air of fun and playfulness to the rooftop space. You can install artificial turf in this space that has game lines painted on them or are colour-coded.
Rooftop areas in the winter months
Who said your rooftop area is only usable in the summer? With some forward planning, you can equip your rooftop recreation space to be just as enticing in the cooler months.
Create a cosy atmosphere by adding an element of shelter from the weather – some of the same things that can be used for shade can also be used to protect you from rain.
A fireplace or fire pit is an excellent addition to your rooftop. It ensures access during winter, but also when the evening temperature drops in the warmer months. Be careful to ensure suitable non-flammable base of tiles, slate, or concrete around your brazier and before your turf.
To truly winter-proof your rooftop, keep a stash of blankets and hot water bottles up there, as well as a kettle to fill them.
If you want to get extravagant with your winter rooftop, install a hot tub or spa bath. There’s nothing quite like having a nice warm soak while it’s raining!
Winter is when things might get weather damaged or slippery, so it’s extra important to choose anti-slip flooring. Of course, we recommend artificial turf (it just ticks all the boxes), but you could also combine turf with outdoor, anti-slip wood.
A rooftop recreation area makes for an adventurous addition to your home or commercial building.
Some elements just make sense, because they have more than one function:
If you’re ready to create an epic rooftop recreation area, get in touch with our team to bounce some ideas around.
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Kiwis and Aussies alike love year-round sports, and everyone wants a beautifully manicured lawn. Synthetic grass is an excellent solution: maximising the time spent enjoying the surface by minimising the time required to maintain it.
One of the biggest advantages of synthetic grass is that it can be used in so many different ways – landscaping, sports fields, balconies, gyms, pathways, and play areas, to name a few – but the question remains: can it be sustainably made?
In this article, we’ll dive into the ecological benefits of synthetic grass, and discuss how it compares overall to natural grass in terms of environmental impact.
You’d be forgiven for thinking that natural grass is the more environmental option – it’s natural, right? The truth is, it’s anything but.
A grass lawn or field is very much a human-made concept. When you go exploring in native bush areas, do you see any flat, perfectly manicured grasses? Probably not, and that’s because a well-maintained, grassed area requires a lot of work, as well as a lot of elements not found in the natural environment.
Why do we have lawns and fields?
Sure, back in the day there were clearings amongst the natural growth – areas exposed to sunlight and water, away from the shade of the forest floor, where wild grass would grow. Farmers would use these areas to graze their animals, who would leave behind natural fertiliser (yep, dung).
That’s natural. But it’s a little more difficult to pull off in the backyard of your residential townhouse – or indeed, in a sports field.
A perfect, grassy expanse began as a status symbol, and it turns out they existed so that the soldiers guarding castles had a clear view of their surroundings. It was a little bit about showing off, and a lot about practicality. But times have changed, and what we do with flat, grassy areas has changed as well.
There are some environmental benefits to natural grass. It soaks up moisture, stays cool, and provides a home for insects and birdlife.
But as we’ve discussed, natural grass doesn’t just happen. So what do we need to do in order to achieve grassy perfection?
Natural grass needs to be mowed, watered, and fertilised. These activities all impact the wider environment – as well as the insect and birdlife that natural grass ought to support.
Mowing natural grass
Mowing grass uses fossil fuels and contributes carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
The environmental impact of your lawn mower may seem minimal, but, according to the EPA, the emissions from a 3.5 horsepower gas-powered lawn mower releases the same amount of air polluting emissions in one hour as a new car driven 340 miles (550 km).
Extrapolate that out to large areas of natural grass in parks, stadiums and schools, and the impacts quickly become significant.
Watering natural grass
During the warmer months, grass needs regular watering to prevent it from drying out.
In particular, sports grounds – which need to be kept consistent for play – need a lot of water during the summer and growing months in New Zealand and Australia.
Again, this might not seem like a big deal when it’s your backyard or front lawn, but everybody’s backyards and front lawns, plus all of the natural grass in stadiums, parks, and schools? That’s a fair amount of water.
Fertilizing natural grass
We all know that the runoff of toxic pesticides and fertilisers is a source of water pollution.
In fact, The EPA has identified runoff of toxic pesticides and fertilizers as the principal cause of water pollution. So, fertilisers can harm the earth more than help your lawn or football pitch.
So, in what ways is synthetic turf more environmentally friendly than natural grass?
Artificial grass is made from synthetic materials – let’s get that out of the way right now. These materials do have an impact on the environment.
Even so, synthetic turf has a lot of positive environmental credentials when compared to natural grass. It is often promoted as being a ‘green’ alternative.
But what does this look like in real life?
Lower carbon emissions
We discussed the emissions from lawn mowing in the section above, and how when it’s done on a large scale, it can have a significant impact on the environment.
Of course, artificial grass is a clear solution to this issue because it doesn’t need mowing – end of story.
Water conservation
Grass needs water, that’s a given. This is where artificial turf surfaces have a major advantage over natural grass.
In most cases, you won’t need to water synthetic grass other than to clean it. Although there are some types of synthetic turf that do perform better when watered, this water usage is generally significantly less than that needed to irrigate and maintain natural grass.
Research in the US has shown that each full-sized rectangular artificial turf field saves between 1.8 million to 3.7 million litres of water each year.
Furthermore, artificial grass installations always include some form of drainage. Some users choose to collect water runoff from their synthetic turf in order to reuse it. Because it doesn’t absorb moisture the way that natural grass does, rainwater (and the water you use for cleaning it) can be saved for something else.
Eliminates the need for toxic pesticides and fertilisers
Again, pesticides and fertilisers may not seem like a big deal when used in your backyard or local sports field, but it all adds to the bigger picture.
It goes without saying that synthetic grass doesn’t need pesticides or fertilisers to keep it functional and looking good.
Is artificial grass recyclable?
End-of-life disposal often sees old turf end up in landfill.
We encourage our customers to try and re-sell, donate or recycle parts of the synthetic turf wherever possible. For example, often community groups can utilise different aspects of an elite playing surface that is being replaced.
At the end of the day, recycling the turf into other products and uses is always the best option, and there is ongoing research into better ways in which synthetic turf can be removed, cleaned, and reused, or components of it recycled.
Artificial grass is beginning to look pretty good when compared to natural grass – but can we do better? The answer is yes.
Technology is always advancing in the synthetic grass game, and manufacturers are always looking for ways to improve the materials and processes in a way that reduces environmental impact.
At TigerTurf, we’ve focused on reducing the environmental impact of our products by using recycled and recyclable components in our production.
TigerTurf Ecocept
TigerTurf Ecocept is a high-performance sports base layer made from 80-90% recycled plastic and rubber.
This product is the result of years of research by TigerTurf and TenCate grass to find a solution to recycling end of life synthetic turf and other plastic waste.
TigerTurf’s goal is to be a net neutral producer of plastic waste.
How do we do it?
Does Ecocept sound good to you? Get in touch and discover a truly greener option for sports and lawn surface.
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Cricket requires a high level of accuracy, coordination, balance, and concentration. It makes sense that the surface played on needs to be high quality. Small imperfections can be an unwelcome distraction and cause excessive deviations in ball trajectory.
We have compiled a list of maintenance tips, so that it’s easier to keep your artificial wicket looking sharp, and your game free from distractions:
The most important thing to do is to keep an eye on things. Check for:
Nobody likes a bunch of rules, but having some in place will help the lifespan of your wicket. Here is one of our suggestions:
No metal spiked footwear – soft-soled, rubber cricket boots/rubber spikes only
This is because the use of metal spikes on a concrete-based surface will not only damage and rip the surface, but they will also create a slip hazard.
Weeds and moss growing through the pitch
Correct preparation of the surface before installation will help to minimise any problems with unwelcome plant-life. Similarly, regular brushing of the pitch will help to prevent seeds from germinating.
When it isn’t used for long periods of time, moss can grow on the wicket, making the surface slippery and reducing quality and performance.
It’s important not to pull the weeds out, as this will not completely remove the roots.
The best way to deal with weeds and moss on an artificial wicket is to use a herbicide that has been approved by your turf’s manufacturer. In most cases, you will spray the turf and wait 10-14 days before brushing it off.
As a rule, the general maintenance of an artificial cricket turf can be done by the club. More involved repairs and maintenance – ones that require removal, lifting, or rolling of the turf – ought to be done by, or in consultation with your manufacturer.
Keep it beautiful year-round, and when summer hits, you will be ready to play! Meanwhile, you can find out more about Tiger Turf’s cricket turf solutions here.
]]>Creating and maintaining suitable sports facilities can be difficult for many primary and intermediate schools, however – with limited space and limited funding, meeting the various needs of students with different interests and skills can be a tall order.
Many schools find themselves only able to offer a small selection of sports, meaning that the kids who would prefer to be playing something else are left behind.
Thankfully, there’s a good solution that ticks all of the boxes: expanding your options with multi-sports turf. Kids at schools with multi-sports playing areas enjoy significantly more options for physical activities, and the ease of maintenance is great for resourcing.
In this article, we’ll outline the top five reasons why multi-sports synthetic turf is an excellent option for primary and intermediate schools that want to offer variety to their students.
A multi-sports turf is an excellent way to get the most use out of limited space. Different schools have different spatial allocations for sports and activities, so a multi-sports turf offers more variety with limited space. One sports field and one sports court can provide a playing surface for the following sports:
No matter what the season, synthetic grass is ready for play. With excellent drainage, your students will avoid slippery, boggy play surfaces in the winter, and dry, dusty surfaces in the summer.
Synthetic turf offers consistency, so that the surface you practice on is the surface that you play on. What’s more, multi-sports turf means that as the sports seasons change, so can the games that are played on the same surface.
Saturday morning winter games? There’s nothing worse than trying to play on a field of real grass that has become muddy and slippery after a few hours of constant play. With artificial turf, the surface is consistent from game to game – no need to rotate between numerous fields – all available fields can be in play at the same time.
Constant maintenance is required to keep real grass fields playable and safe: mowing, rolling, spraying, irrigating, drainage, and re-applying marking paint.
Artificial multi-sports turf can come with different coloured, permanent markings to delineate zones of play for a range of sports. They’re suitable for high use, and durable enough to hold up for many years of consistent play.
It doesn’t need to be mowed, and the irrigation, drainage, and leveling are all taken care of during the installation. All you need to do is keep it clear from debris to avoid rotting leaves from making it slippery, and it’s good to go!
There’s no denying that people are impacted by their surroundings. At school, kids spend much of their time indoors, and getting outside is an important part of the day – it’s something that they look forward to.
It makes sense to create beautiful, green spaces to offer a break from the four walls of the classroom. Synthetic grass looks natural, and attends to our need to see green space whilst being outdoors.
Bright, clean, and attractive colours suggest a healthy school culture – and they just make you feel good.
Finally, given how integral sports are for young Kiwi and Aussie kids, it’s important to make sure that everyone is included. When the way a child performs at sports is a formative part of their identity, they need to have options to do the activities they’re most drawn to.
Multi-sports turf simply gives the school and the children more options for play. If the goal is to enable everybody to participate, then it’s important to ensure that there are a variety of activities available.
Synthetic grass is also an accessible surface option; easy for wheelchairs and walkers. Whether they want to participate in the game, or cheer on their favourite team from the sideline, accessing a synthetic field or court is no problem.
If you’re considering adding multi-sports synthetic turfs to your school sports and recreation area, get in touch with the team at TigerTurf.
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