What actually drives turf surface temperature

Surface heat comes from solar energy absorbed by the yarn and infill, then stored in the system. Manage light absorption, moisture, and mass to lower peak temps.

  • Sun intensity and angle: Midday summer sun produces the highest readings.
  • Color and reflectance: Light yarn and light infills absorb less heat.
  • Moisture and evaporation: Infills that hold water shed heat as it evaporates.
  • Pile height and density: Taller, denser piles shade infill but can trap warm air without airflow.
  • Base and subgrade: Rock bases store heat; shading and moisture reduce it.
  • Climate and humidity: Dry heat rewards evaporative systems; humid climates still benefit, just with smaller deltas.

Infill types ranked by cooling potential

Evaporative coated silica sand

Silica sand coated with a hygroscopic or polymer layer that holds and slowly releases water for evaporative cooling.

  • Typical reduction: About 15 to 30 °F when hydrated in peak sun, with short bursts higher immediately after wetting.
  • Pros: Reliable cooling, light color, stable, low odor, compatible with most landscape turfs.
  • Considerations: Needs periodic hydration in hot periods. Follow manufacturer spread rates.
  • Best for: Backyards, playgrounds, pet areas, rooftops.

Zeolite mineral infill

Porous clinoptilolite that absorbs water and releases it gradually. Also helps manage pet odors.

  • Typical reduction: About 10 to 20 °F when hydrated.
  • Pros: Light color, odor control, simple to install or blend with sand.
  • Considerations: Cools best when pre-wet before use. Can hold fines; occasional grooming helps.
  • Best for: Residential, pet zones, kennels, lighter traffic spaces.

Light colored TPE or EPDM elastomer infill

Engineered granules in tan or light shades used more in sports but viable in some landscapes.

  • Typical reduction vs black SBR: Often 10 to 20 °F cooler.
  • Pros: Resilient feel, consistent grading, lower heat than black rubber.
  • Considerations: Higher cost than sand. Check compatibility and ballast needs in wind or on rooftops.
  • Best for: High use areas that need rebound without the heat of SBR.

Plain silica sand

Uncoated, light colored mineral infill that reflects more light than dark rubber but lacks active cooling.

  • Typical behavior: Cooler than black rubber; still heats under peak sun.
  • Pros: Affordable, stable, easy to source.
  • Considerations: No evaporative benefit unless mixed with cooling media.
  • Best for: Budget installs, shaded yards, mix partner with zeolite or coated sand.

Cork or organic blends

Granulated cork or cork blends that are lighter and less heat absorbing than rubber.

  • Typical reduction vs black SBR: Often 10 to 25 °F cooler.
  • Pros: Low density, pleasant underfoot, renewable material.
  • Considerations: Moisture swings can change feel; may require periodic top off.
  • Best for: Sports systems and select landscapes where organics are desired.

Black SBR crumb rubber

Recycled tire rubber. It absorbs the most heat and is the hottest option in full sun.

  • Typical behavior: Frequently the hottest surface in the lineup.
  • Best for: Use only when budget or performance needs outweigh heat concerns.

How to choose the best cooling infill for your project

  • Backyards and play areas: Evaporative coated sand for dependable cooling. Blend with zeolite if you want more odor control for pets.
  • Pet runs and kennels: Zeolite or a coated sand and zeolite mix for cooling plus ammonia capture.
  • Playgrounds: Coated sand for temperature control and consistency. Verify fall height requirements with the full system, not just infill.
  • Sports or training lanes: Light colored TPE or EPDM where rebound matters, or a hybrid system blending cooling sands beneath.
  • Rooftops and terraces: Coated sand for ballast and cooling. Confirm load, wind, and drainage details.

Install specs that maximize cooling

  • Application rate: Follow the turf and infill manufacturer spec. Landscape ranges commonly run about 1 to 3 pounds per square foot depending on pile height and thatch.
  • Layering: Work infill in slowly with a drop spreader and stiff broom so fibers stand up and granules settle uniformly.
  • Depth target: Fill to just below the fiber tips so the thatch shades the infill while allowing airflow.
  • Mix strategies: For pets, a 70 to 30 split of coated sand to zeolite is a common starting point. Adjust based on odor load and climate.
  • Edge containment: Use proper edging so light infills do not migrate.

Hydration and upkeep for peak performance

  • Hydrate: In hot months, lightly hose or mist coated sand or zeolite before peak use. Frequency varies by climate. Expect best results for a few hours after wetting.
  • Grooming: Cross brush quarterly to keep fibers upright and expose more infill to airflow.
  • Top offs: Inspect annually. Add infill where traffic thins it out.

Other ways to drop surface temps

  • Yarn choice: Select lighter green blends or IR reflective yarns to lower absorption.
  • Shade and airflow: Shade sails, pergolas, and tree canopies reduce peak heat. Encourage cross breeze where possible.
  • Water on demand: A quick rinse before play is the fastest short term cooldown.
  • System design: Taller pile with thatch can shade infill. Permeable bases drain fast after misting so cooling works without puddles.

What results to expect

Cooling infills cut peak readings by double digits in typical summer sun, especially just after wetting. Real results vary with sun angle, color, hydration, and measurement method. Even the coolest system can feel hot at midday, so plan shade or quick rinses for sensitive users.

Need a straight answer for your site

Tell us your climate, use case, and turf spec. We will recommend a cooling infill recipe that fits your goals and budget. FusionTurf keeps it simple and gets it right.