Using energy-efficient windows are a great way to keep your home cooler by reflecting the sun away from your home. However, we have found that the reflection caused by energy-efficient windows can magnify the sun to a point of melting the artificial grass surface.
Artificial grass has a very high melting point of 200 degrees but there were several projects melt as a result of the reflection from windows. One of the customers email us like this:
“The reflection of the window has amplified the sun and has melted the turf. It has only melted in the spots where the sun has reflected on the window.”
Please note any reflective surface can magnify the rays. A reflection from an older window or a stainless steel door may possibly have the same effect, but it is not as common as with energy-efficient windows.
Other reflective surfaces can magnify the rays:
Polished Gutters – Often dark colors which absorb heat and reflect light from their shiny surface.
Mirrors – Reflects sunlight at a high intensity of a large surface area.
Reflective Panels – On doors, sheds, outbuildings, etc. These can also have a big surface area in which light can reflect off for a long time.
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What Can You Do About Artificial Grass Melting?
The good news is that you can still enjoy all the benefits of artificial grass and the solution is rather simple. Screens or protective films can be placed on the outside of the windows causing the reflection. It is a relatively inexpensive solution. Meanwhile, having screens or protective films on the outside of the window will also benefit the efficiency of your home.
If you do have windows that face your new artificial turf project, please install screens, protective films, or some type of window protection to protect the new artificial grass. Even if there is a tree in place or you think a window will not reflect and damage your turf, be overly protective as a precautionary measure.
The damage from the sun’s powerful reflection could be coming from other reflective surfaces such as mirrors, reflective panels, shining metals, or a neighboring property. So besides your windows, you need to ensure that your artificial turf is safe from your surroundings as well.
Can I repair the damaged artificial turf area?
Yes, you can follow the guide “How To Repair Artificial Turf“.