More Profitable Turf Installations

Many synthetic turf installations are slowed down by preventable circumstances. For example, when the turf adhesive being used has a strict temperature range, or precipitation is in the forecast but the adhesive cannot be exposed to water until it cures, or the adhesive has no "green strength" (grab, tack, grip). Using turf adhesives with a limited working window or inferior adhesive properties can result in expensive delays while waiting for "ideal" weather.

Q: What types of adhesive are used for synthetic turf installations, and which are the best for installing in unfavorable conditions?

A: There are several types: two-part; hot melt; solvent-free urethanes and silicone/silanes; and one-part solvent-based moisture-curing urethanes. Of these choices, only the one-part solvent-based moisture-cured urethanes can be applied in any temperature the installer can work, from sub-freezing cold to intense desert heat. They have high green strength (grab) during installation to overcome the forces of expansion and contraction due to temperature change, turf memory curl and wind lift. They can be applied right up to before it rains and have superior water-resistance.

Q: Why doesn't every installer use one-part solvent-based moisture-cured urethane adhesives for synthetic turf installations?

A: Sometimes adhesive choices are made based on low price, not quality. And some installers have been using the same adhesive for years, unaware that they are experiencing "unrealized adhesive suffering" by accepting installation slowdowns and adhesive failures as being common while missing out on the many benefits of using a one-part solvent-based moisture-cured urethane. The well-informed installer knows that one-part solvent-based moisture-cured urethane adhesives allow for more installation days year round, are fast and easy to apply by a variety of methods such as airless spray, glue box, stand up trowel, stand up squeegee, etc., and deliver stronger, longer-lasting playing surfaces.