The Differences Between Wetpour And Artificial Grass

Are you considering installing a new surface for your outdoor space but unsure whether to choose wetpour or artificial grass?

We compare the key differences between the two options in terms of material composition, installation process, maintenance requirements, durability, and lifespan.

Discover the benefits of choosing wetpour over artificial grass, including safety, versatility, customisation options, long-term cost savings, environmental impact, and ease of maintenance.

What is Wetpour Installation?

Wetpour installation is a process of creating a seamless, cushioned playground surface using wet pour surfacing materials, which are primarily made from EPDM rubber granules mixed with a resin binder.

This method not only provides a visually appealing finish to playgrounds but also ensures a soft and safe environment for children to play in.

Safety surfacing, such as wet pour, is crucial in reducing the risk of injuries from falls, making it a popular choice for schools, parks, and recreational areas.

The materials used in wetpour installation are durable, UV resistant, and available in various colours, allowing for creative designs that enhance the overall aesthetic of the playground.

The seamless surfaces created by wet pour are low maintenance, easy to clean, and provide excellent impact absorption, offering a comfortable playing surface for children.

What is Artificial Grass Installation?

Artificial grass installation involves laying synthetic turf on a prepared surface to mimic the appearance and feel of real grass, providing a low-maintenance and durable alternative to natural grass.

When starting the installation process, the first step is to prepare the area by removing any existing grass, rocks, or debris.

Next, a compacted base layer is installed to provide a stable foundation for the synthetic turf.

The synthetic grass is then carefully rolled out on the prepared surface and trimmed to fit the area.

Seams are secured with adhesive and infill materials are spread evenly to give the grass a natural look and feel.

Artificial grass is typically made from:

polyethylene
polypropylene
nylon

The benefits of artificial grass over natural grass include:

reduced water usage
lower maintenance
elimination of pesticides and fertilizers
enhanced durability and longevity

making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective landscaping option.

What are the Main Differences Between Wetpour and Artificial Grass?

When comparing wetpour and artificial grass, significant differences arise in terms of material composition, installation process, maintenance requirements, and overall durability and lifespan, all of which impact their suitability for playground surfaces and sports surfacing.

Material Composition

Wetpour is made from EPDM rubber granules combined with a resin binder, creating a flexible and impact-absorbing surface, whereas artificial grass consists of synthetic fibres designed to replicate the look and feel of natural grass.

In wetpour surfacing, EPDM rubber granules are chosen for their elasticity and durability.

When mixed with the resin binder, they form a seamless surface that offers cushioning and fall protection on playgrounds and recreational areas.

On the other hand, artificial grass utilises synthetic fibres, typically made from materials like polyethylene or nylon, engineered to mimic the texture and colour variations of real grass.

The benefits of EPDM rubber in wetpour include UV stability, slip resistance, and colour retention.

Meanwhile, artificial grass offers low maintenance requirements, no need for watering or mowing, and year-round green appeal.

Installation Process

The installation process for wetpour involves mixing EPDM rubber granules with a resin binder on-site and pouring the mixture onto a prepared surface, while artificial grass installation typically includes laying synthetic turf over a base of compacted soil or resin bound gravel.

Regarding the equipment required, wetpour installation demands specialised tools such as a forced action mixer for blending the rubber granules and resin, along with trowels for spreading the mixture evenly.

In contrast, laying artificial grass often necessitates tools like a turf cutter, compactor for soil, and a sharp knife for trimming the edges of the turf.

The techniques employed in wetpour installation involve meticulous mixing of the rubber granules and resin to achieve a uniform consistency before pouring it onto the surface, ensuring a seamless finish.

On the other hand, artificial grass installation entails precise cutting and fitting of the synthetic turf over the prepared base, meticulously aligning the seams for a natural look.

Maintenance Requirements

Wetpour surfaces require minimal maintenance, primarily involving periodic cleaning and inspection for wear and tear, whereas artificial grass may need regular brushing, removal of debris, and occasional infill replacement to maintain its appearance and functionality.

Regarding wetpour surfaces, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for any signs of damage, such as cracks or fading colours, as these can impact the safety and aesthetic appeal of the area.

Regularly cleaning the surface with a mild detergent and soft brush can help prevent the build-up of dirt and algae, ensuring that the surface remains safe for use.

On the other hand, artificial grass requires proper upkeep to maintain its lush look and feel.

Brushing the grass fibres regularly can help prevent matting and keep the surface looking fresh.

Removing debris like leaves and twigs is essential to prevent blockages that can affect drainage.

Durability and Lifespan

Wetpour surfaces are highly durable and can last for several years with proper maintenance, offering excellent resistance to heavy use and weather conditions, whilst artificial grass also boasts a long lifespan but may show signs of wear in high-traffic areas over time.

When comparing the durability between wetpour and artificial grass surfaces, it is important to consider the factors that can impact their longevity.

Wetpour, made from a mixture of rubber granules and polyurethane, is known for its resilience to frequent use and harsh weather conditions.

It is commonly found on playgrounds and sports areas due to its ability to endure constant foot traffic and outdoor exposure.

In contrast, artificial grass, despite its synthetic nature, can also stand the test of time.

In areas of intense activity or heavy footfall, such as playing fields or recreational spaces, the fibres may flatten or show signs of wear over an extended period.

Regular maintenance, such as brushing and occasional refilling of infill, can help extend the lifespan of artificial grass surfaces, making them a viable option for various outdoor settings.

Why Choose Wetpour Over Artificial Grass?

Choosing wetpour over artificial turf can offer several advantages, particularly in terms of:

safety,
versatility,
customisation options,
long-term cost savings,
environmental impact,
ease of maintenance,

making it an ideal solution for playground safety surfacing and other high-impact areas.

Safety

One of the primary reasons to choose wetpour is its superior safety features, including its ability to meet critical fall height requirements, which helps to minimise injuries from falls in playgrounds and other areas.

Wetpour’s impact-absorbing properties play a vital role in safeguarding individuals, especially children, from serious injuries.

The unique cushioning effect of wetpour surfaces reduces the force of impact upon falling, significantly lowering the risk of fractures, bruises, and other fall-related injuries.

This safety aspect makes wetpour an ideal choice for environments where safety is paramount.

Wetpour surfaces comply with strict safety standards such as BS EN 1177, providing reassurance to both parents and regulators about the safety of the play area.

Versatility

Wetpour is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, including playground surfaces, sports surfacing, and recreational areas, thanks to its durability and adaptability to different designs and requirements.

One of the key applications of wetpour is in school playgrounds, where it provides a safe and cushioned surface for children to play on, reducing the risk of injuries from falls.

Wetpour is popular in sports facilities such as outdoor gyms and running tracks due to its shock-absorbing properties, which help prevent joint injuries during physical activities.

Wetpour is often chosen for commercial settings like shopping centres and theme parks for its vibrant colours and ability to incorporate unique patterns and logos, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the area.

Customisation Options

Wetpour offers extensive customisation options, allowing for the incorporation of playground markings, colourful designs, and integration with playground equipment and outdoor classrooms, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Regarding colour choices, the options are virtually endless.

Bold primary hues are popular for creating vibrant and exciting playground surfaces, while pastel shades offer a softer, more calming atmosphere.

Multicolour blends can be used to create intricate patterns or to mimic natural landscapes like oceans or forests.

In terms of patterns, geometric shapes, hopscotch grids, alphabet and number sequences, and even custom logos can be incorporated seamlessly into the wetpour surface.

These not only add an element of fun but also serve educational purposes. Features like non-slip properties, UV stability, and even glow-in-the-dark capabilities can all be integrated for added safety and entertainment.

Long-term Cost Savings

In the long term, wetpour can provide significant cost savings due to its low maintenance requirements and durable nature, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

Compared to artificial grass, which often requires regular upkeep such as brushing, cleaning, and potential re-turfing, wetpour proves to be a more economical choice.

The initial investment in wetpour may be slightly higher, but over time, the savings in maintenance costs can be substantial.

With minimal maintenance needs, wetpour can withstand heavy foot traffic and harsh weather conditions without deteriorating quickly, making it a cost-effective option for playgrounds, sports surfaces, and recreational areas.

Environmental Impact

Wetpour can have a positive environmental impact, particularly when using recycled rubber mulch in its composition, reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices.

The utilisation of recycled materials in wetpour surfaces leads to a dual benefit for the environment – not only does it divert waste from landfills, but it also minimises the need for extracting new raw materials, thus conserving natural resources.

Recycled rubber mulch serves as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials, offering a longer lifespan and reduced environmental impact.

The porous nature of wetpour enables rainwater to penetrate the surface, facilitating groundwater recharge and reducing runoff pollution.

These features make wetpour a preferred choice for environmentally conscious individuals and organisations.

Ease of Maintenance

Wetpour surfaces are relatively easy to maintain, requiring simple cleaning and periodic inspection to ensure they remain safe and functional, which can be less demanding than the upkeep required for artificial grass.

The maintenance procedures for wetpour involve regular sweeping to remove debris and leaves, as well as occasional power washing to keep the surface clean and prevent the growth of mould or mildew.

Unlike artificial grass that needs regular brushing and infill top-ups, wetpour only requires minor repairs in case of localised damage.

This low-maintenance approach not only saves time and effort but also contributes to the long-term usability of the surface, ensuring a safe and durable play area for children.

Conclusion: Which Option is Best for Your Needs?

Choosing between wetpour and artificial grass depends on the play area’s needs, budget, safety, and maintenance, with wetpour often preferred for safety and durability.

When considering wetpour, it’s crucial to acknowledge its excellent impact absorption qualities, reducing the risk of injury during falls on the playground.

On the other hand, artificial grass offers a low-maintenance solution with its natural look and feel, making it a popular choice for schools and parks looking for a green, lush play surface.

Ultimately, the decision between wetpour and artificial grass boils down to the specific needs and priorities of the play area, whether safety, aesthetics, or maintenance ease takes precedence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Wetpour and Artificial Grass?

The main difference between Wetpour and Artificial Grass is the material they are made of.

Wetpour is made of rubber granules and resin, while Artificial Grass is made of synthetic fibres.

Which one is more suitable for outdoor playgrounds?

Wetpour is more suitable for outdoor playgrounds as it provides a safer and more cushioned surface for children to play on. It also allows for more customisable designs and colours.

Is Artificial Grass more durable than Wetpour?

Artificial Grass is generally more durable than Wetpour as it is designed to withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions.

However, Wetpour can also be quite durable if maintained properly.

What are the maintenance requirements for each option?

Artificial Grass requires little maintenance, as it only needs occasional brushing and cleaning.

Wetpour, on the other hand, needs to be cleaned regularly and inspected for any damages that may need repair.

In terms of cost, which one is more affordable?

Artificial Grass tends to be more expensive upfront due to the materials and installation costs.

Wetpour may have a higher initial cost, but it requires less maintenance and can last for many years, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Can Wetpour be installed over Artificial Grass?

Wetpour can be installed over Artificial Grass as long as the grass is short and compacted.

However, it is recommended to remove the Artificial Grass completely before installing Wetpour for better results and durability.

Information For Wetpour Installation

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