Artificial grass is often promoted as a clean, low-maintenance alternative to natural lawns. One question comes up again and again, though, especially in sunny regions: does it get hot? If you’ve ever touched artificial turf on a bright afternoon and quickly pulled your hand away, you already know this isn’t a small concern.
The short answer is yes. Artificial grass does get hot, and in full sun it can become significantly hotter than natural grass. Understanding why this happens, how hot it can get, and what can realistically be done about it helps set the right expectations before installing turf.
Why Does Artificial Grass Get Hot?
Artificial grass is made from synthetic fibers such as polyethylene or polypropylene. These materials absorb and hold onto solar energy instead of releasing it. Natural grass, by contrast, cools itself through evaporation as moisture moves from the soil and blades into the air.
Because artificial turf lacks this natural cooling process, heat builds up on the surface. In areas with limited airflow or reflected heat from walls and hardscaping, that warmth can linger well into the evening.
How Hot Can Artificial Grass Get?
On a sunny day, artificial grass can reach surface temperatures between 120–180°F (50–82°C). The exact temperature depends on several factors, including the type of turf, the infill used, and how much direct sun the area receives.
Even when air temperatures feel manageable, turf exposed to direct sunlight can become uncomfortable or unsafe to touch. This gap between air temperature and surface temperature is what surprises many first-time buyers.
What Factors Affect Turf Temperature
Turf Material and Color
Darker, denser turf absorbs more heat. Lighter-colored fibers and newer reflective yarn technologies can reduce heat absorption slightly, but they do not prevent heating altogether. All artificial grass warms up under prolonged sun exposure.
Infill Choice
Infill has a noticeable impact on surface heat. Rubber-based infills tend to retain more heat, while lighter materials such as silica sand generally stay cooler. Some infills are designed to reduce heat retention, but their effect is limited rather than transformative.
Sun Exposure
Artificial grass installed in full, uninterrupted sun heats up far more than turf in shaded or partially shaded areas. Shade from trees, buildings, pergolas, or sails can dramatically reduce surface temperatures.
Moisture Levels
Unlike natural grass, artificial turf does not cool itself when dry. Moisture from rain or a hose rinse temporarily lowers the temperature, but the surface heats up again once it dries.
Is Artificial Grass Too Hot for Pets and Children?
High surface temperatures can make artificial grass uncomfortable or unsafe for bare feet, children, and pets. Dogs are especially sensitive, as hot turf can burn paw pads. Children playing directly on the surface may also be exposed to heat-related discomfort.
This doesn’t mean artificial grass is unusable in warm climates, but it does mean usage patterns need to change. Midday play during peak summer heat is often unrealistic without shade or cooling.
Ways to Reduce Heat on Artificial Grass
Water for Short-Term Cooling
A light spray of water can quickly bring surface temperatures down. This method works well before use but offers only temporary relief, as the turf heats up again once dry.
Add Shade Wherever Possible
Shade is one of the most effective and reliable ways to manage heat. Pergolas, shade sails, umbrellas, and nearby trees significantly reduce direct sun exposure and improve comfort.
Choose Heat-Resistant Turf Options
Modern artificial grass products use improved yarns and backing systems designed to absorb less heat than older turf. While they still get warm, they tend to heat up less aggressively.
Consider Cooling Infill
Some infill products are engineered to reflect heat or retain moisture longer. These options can help moderate temperatures slightly, especially when combined with shade and airflow.
Design With Airflow in Mind
Surrounding turf with plants, open spaces, and layouts that encourage airflow can help reduce heat buildup. Smart landscape design often makes a bigger difference than product selection alone.
Artificial Grass vs Natural Grass: A Heat Trade-Off
Natural grass remains cooler because it cools itself through evaporation and soil moisture. Artificial grass trades that natural cooling for reduced watering and maintenance needs.
The result is a surface that requires intentional heat management rather than passive cooling. This trade-off is acceptable for many people, but it should be understood clearly before installation.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Artificial grass is not a cool surface in direct sunlight. Claims that turf stays cool all day are misleading. Even with advanced materials and cooling strategies, artificial grass will always be warmer than natural grass under the same conditions.
Understanding this upfront allows homeowners to design outdoor spaces that work with artificial grass rather than fighting its limitations.
Final Takeaway
Artificial grass does get hot, sometimes to uncomfortable or unsafe levels in direct sun. Heat buildup depends on turf material, infill choice, sun exposure, and moisture.
While shade, water, and modern turf technology can reduce surface temperatures, they cannot eliminate heat entirely. Planning for heat management is essential when choosing artificial grass, especially in sunny or hot climates.
