As we bask in the warm Virginia summer, it’s essential not only to mind our comfort but also that of our pets. One element that often goes unnoticed is the temperature of the surfaces our pets walk on.
Whether you have a bouncy Labrador or a playful corgi, ensuring their comfort during the scorching summer heat is crucial. Synthetic turf in Virginia stands out as an excellent solution, especially when compared to natural grass, concrete, and other yard flooring options.
Why Choose Artificial Grass for Your Pet Yard This Summer?
On a hot summer day, natural grass can become surprisingly hot. The sun heats the grass blades and the soil beneath it, which retains the heat. Concrete, a common yard hardscape, absorbs even more heat because of its dense material, making it uncomfortably hot to touch.
Artificial grass, on the other hand, is designed to be more heat resistant. Synthetic fibers make up artificial grass, and these fibers don’t absorb heat the way natural grass and concrete do. Instead, they reflect a lot of it back, meaning the surface stays cooler.
This matters a lot for our furry friends. Dogs, for instance, are more susceptible to the heat due to their fur coats, and they primarily cool themselves through panting. Additionally, their paw pads are sensitive, and walking on hot surfaces can cause discomfort or even burns.
Tips to Keep Synthetic Grass Cooler for Pets
Even though synthetic turf in Virginia is heat resistant, it can still warm up under intense sunlight. So, how can you ensure it’ll stay as cool as possible for your dogs?
1. Choose a Lighter Color
Lighter shades of artificial grass tend to reflect more sunlight, absorbing less heat than darker shades. While you might be tempted to choose a deep green for a lush, natural look, a lighter shade could provide a cooler surface for your pets during those hot Virginia summers.
2. Install a Sprinkler System
Just like natural grass, an artificial turf installation in Virginia can be cooled down with a splash of water. Installing a sprinkler system or simply hosing down the yard before your pets go out to play can lower the temperature significantly.
3. Use a Heat-Reflective Infill
Infill is the material used to fill the spaces between the synthetic blades of grass. Some infills are specially designed to be heat-reflective, which helps to further reduce the temperature of the artificial grass.
4. Install Shade Structures
Another simple and effective way to keep your artificial grass cool is to provide shade. Canopies, shade sails, or even strategically planted trees can block direct sunlight, significantly reducing the surface temperature. This can create a pleasant environment not just for your pets, but for the entire family.
Conclusion
Keeping our pets cool and comfortable during the summer heat isn’t just about providing shade and fresh water, but also about creating a cool surface for them to play on.
Artificial grass for pets near me, with its superior heat resistance, offers an excellent solution for pet owners across Virginia. Its synthetic fibers stay cooler than concrete and natural grass, making it a safer option for our four-legged friends.