Typical temperature reduction ranges

Cooling infill works by reflecting more solar energy and, in some products, releasing stored moisture that removes heat through evaporation. In comparable conditions versus black SBR crumb rubber baseline:

  • Dry conditions: expect about 5 to 15°F lower peak surface temperature.
  • Hydrated conditions: expect about 15 to 40°F lower peak surface temperature, depending on sun intensity, turf system, and airflow.
  • Partial shade or high wind can amplify reductions. High humidity reduces evaporative benefit.

What this looks like in the field

  • Full sun, mid afternoon, 90°F ambient: a black rubber system might read 160 to 180°F at the turf surface. A coated cooling sand system that is hydrated often reads about 120 to 145°F. Results depend on design and weather.
  • Light colored, IR reflective yarn plus cooling infill can push reductions to the upper end of the ranges listed above.
  • Dark yarns and non reflective fibers reduce the cooling delta.

Key factors that move the needle

  • Solar load: higher sun angle and cloudless skies drive higher peaks. South facing, unshaded areas gain more from cooling infill.
  • Turf color and fiber chemistry: light colors and IR reflective yarns absorb less energy and pair well with cooling infill.
  • Infill technology: coated sands with evaporative additives can provide larger drops when hydrated. TPE or EPDM can run cooler than black SBR but usually less than evaporative systems.
  • Moisture availability: irrigation, misting, or overnight dew boosts evaporative cooling. Benefit tapers as the infill dries.
  • Pile height and density: taller, denser piles can trap more heat near the surface. Proper infill depth and grooming improve airflow and contact with cooling media.
  • Sub base and drainage: well drained bases help distribute and shed heat and water uniformly.
  • Wind and humidity: wind speeds up evaporation. High humidity slows it.

How to maximize cooling on your project

  1. Select IR reflective, lighter colored turf when aesthetics allow.
  2. Specify a proven cooling infill. Follow the manufacturer application rate and blend guidance.
  3. Hydrate the surface ahead of peak sun. Light, even irrigation often performs best. Reapply during heat spikes if needed.
  4. Fill to the correct depth. Target approximately 60 to 75 percent of pile height filled with infill for good stability and thermal contact.
  5. Groom regularly to keep fibers upright and infill evenly distributed.
  6. Add shade and airflow where possible. Shade sails, trees, or pergolas compound the benefit.

Measuring turf temperature correctly

  • Use a quality IR thermometer and measure at a consistent height and angle.
  • Record surface temperature at multiple points, then average. Avoid readings over seams or near metal edging.
  • Log ambient temperature, wind, humidity, sky conditions, and time of day. Note when the surface was last hydrated.
  • For deeper insight, use a probe thermometer to check temperature just below the fiber tips and within the infill layer.
  • Compare like for like: same site, same time, different infills or turf types.

Maintenance that preserves cooling performance

  • Top off infill as needed to maintain specified depth.
  • Decompact and groom on a set schedule to keep airflow and even coverage.
  • Rinse dust and debris that can reduce reflectivity.
  • Plan irrigation or misting during the hottest window if human or pet comfort is a priority.

Specifications cheat sheet

  • Cooling infill type: coated sand with evaporative technology for maximum reductions, or alternative polymers for moderate reductions.
  • Application rate: follow manufacturer tables for your turf model and pile height. Verify lbs per square foot and target infill depth during install.
  • Turf selection: IR reflective yarns and lighter greens run cooler than dark or highly saturated tones.
  • Water plan: confirm irrigation coverage pattern and flow so hydration is quick, even, and repeatable.

Limitations and expectations

  • Cooling infill does not lower air temperature. It reduces turf surface heat absorption and increases heat loss.
  • Peak reductions are time bound. Evaporative systems need periodic rewetting during extreme sun.
  • Local climate rules. Very humid regions see smaller evaporative gains than dry climates.

When cooling infill is a smart choice

  • Pool surrounds, patios, rooftops, and south facing yards with minimal shade.
  • Playgrounds and high foot traffic zones where comfort and safety matter.
  • Dog runs and kennels that benefit from cooler, cleaner surfaces.

Get a site specific plan

We design turf systems that run cooler without guesswork. Ask FusionTurf for a project specific spec that pairs the right turf, cooling infill, and hydration plan for your climate.