Does Artificial Grass Get Hot?

Yes — like most outdoor surfaces, artificial grass does get hot under direct sunlight. Turf is made of synthetic fibers such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), which, like outdoor furniture, absorb and hold some heat. Still, compared with surfaces such as sand, stones, or concrete walkways, artificial turf usually feels cooler, although not as cool as natural grass, which retains moisture.

If you’re considering installing artificial grass and are worried about summer heat, the good news is that there are heat-resistant artificial grass solutions and several simple methods to keep your lawn comfortable, even in hot climates.

Key factors influencing artificial grass heat

Material & color –Polyethylene (PE) turf naturally absorbs heat, but high-quality artificial grass with UV inhibitors reduces absorption and cools faster. Darker fibers retain more heat, while lighter tones reflect sunlight. Green or blue backings can also slightly lower surface temperature.

Weight & density –Heavier turfs with a higher face weight (more yarn per square yard) often retain more heat because there is simply more material to absorb sunlight. Likewise, very dense or compacted fibers — such as those used in putting greens — trap heat and can reach higher surface temperatures, even if the turf is technically lightweight.

Fiber structure & uniformity –Turf with tightly curled or highly uniform blades tends to restrict airflow, which increases heat build-up. By contrast, artificial grass designed with varied blade shapes and a more “natural” appearance allows for better air circulation, helping the surface cool more quickly.

Infill type –Infill has a strong effect on surface temperature. Crumb rubber tends to absorb and hold more heat, while silica sand or specially designed cooling infills do not retain as much heat and release it faster.

Sun exposure & airflow –Unsurprisingly, turf in direct, prolonged sunlight with little wind will heat up more. Open areas with good airflow, or zones shaded by trees or structures, remain noticeably cooler.

How to keep artificial grass cool

Choose heat-resistant artificial grass

For regions with extreme summer heat — such as Arizona, parts of California, the Middle East, or Australia’s hotter cities — it’s worth considering heat resistant artificial grass that can keep surfaces cooler and more comfortable.

When shopping, prioritize turf that offers:

• UV-stabilised fibers to resist fading and reduce heat absorption
• Specialized yarn design that minimizes heat retention
• Lighter, natural-looking tones that avoid excess heat build-up

GrassCool Series by CCGrass – Best artificial grass for hot climates

CCGrass developed the GrassCool Series, a self-cooling turf technology designed for hot climates. It uses advanced materials to significantly reduce surface heat and minimize retention, providing:

• A cooler surface, even under strong sun
• Maximum UV defense for long-lasting color and performance
• Heat-resistant durability for years of comfort

The GrassCool Series is an excellent solution for high-temperature regions, offering one of the most reliable heat-resistant artificial turf systems for yards, schools, sports fields, rooftops, and commercial landscapes.

Use the right infill

Infill serves a variety of purposes: to support grass fibers, prevent the lawn from distorting, and maintain a better appearance. What’s more, choosing the right infill also helps to cool artificial grass.

• Crumb rubber tends to hold more heat and cools down slowly.
• Silica sand or coated sands absorb less heat and release it faster, making them a better choice for hot climates.

Some innovative cooling infill for artificial grass is also available on the market to retain and gradually release moisture, providing extra surface cooling. These are mainly considered for extremely hot regions.

Water your turf to cool down

A quick rinse is one of the fastest ways to lower surface heat. Sports fields often use irrigation to prepare turf before matches. For a yard, just a few minutes with a garden hose or sprinkler is enough to make the lawn more comfortable.

Keep the natural shed

Tree shade is an effective, natural way to keep grass cool. While fallen leaves may require occasional cleanup, the cooling benefits of shade often outweigh the extra maintenance.

Provide artificial shading

If natural shade isn’t available, consider:

• Retractable awnings
• Pergolas or canopies
• Shade sails over play or seating areas

These not only keep the turf cooler but also make outdoor spaces more enjoyable in summer.

Conclusion

So, does artificial grass get hot? Yes, but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. With heat resistant artificial grass like the GrassCool Series, the right infill, and simple cooling measures such as watering or shading, your lawn will stay safe, durable, and enjoyable — even during the hottest days.

CCGrass is a pioneer in the landscape artificial turf industry, offering a full range of wholesale solutions for residential, commercial, DIY, pet, golf, and city landscape projects. Learn more about our GrassCool self-cooling turf: [email protected] | +86 25 6981 1666