Artificial grass made its debut in Texas, when AstroTurf was brought in for Houston Astrodome’s baseball field in 1966. Since then, it has slowly crept into our neighborhoods and used for many commercial uses as well.
Synthetic grass is made from polypropylene, polyethylene or nylon, and comes in many shapes: Oval shaped, Diamond DE lustered, 3D Curvy "W", Omega, "C" shaped, "M" shaped, "S" blade, Corrugated, "U" shaped, Mini-Ultra, and Curvy ribbed.
You really have to go to a store and look at all the different types, as well as walk on them, to get an idea of what kind you prefer.
Several main factors to keep in mind when deciding which type of turf you prefer are: cost, durability, heat retention, and softness. Other less important factors can be the pile height, the color you like, and how dense the "blades" are (which affects wear & tear, as well as softness and cost).
Playgrounds can come with a custom made turf, with an underlying foam pad that can cushion up to an 8ft fall!
Medium and high density foam is available from most major artificial grass installers. No need to worry about stains, mold, or bacteria with artificial grass. A simple wash down with the hose will keep it nice and clean. It's perforated backing helps keep the turf aerated, so no mold will build up. If you are worried about bacteria, a simple disinfectant can be sprayed with a good hose down afterwards.
No bugs! Turf is easy so it saves time as well.
No need for a lawn mower, low maintenance, no fertilizers, no weeds, saves water, lasts long, looks great!
Not only is it great for homes, but you may find it in gyms, childcare centers, businesses, and sporting events now.
Be sure to get the warranty with any certified contractor. Not only is it worth it, but they do the repairs for you
like your own personal landscaper.
1. While the cost to install artificial grass is higher than natural sod, you'll save money (and time, and headaches, and work) in the long run, bcz there's no watering, or weeding, no fertilizing, no weed spraying or mowing. Yay!
2. It looks great all the time, so no need to rush and mow the lawn before company arrives.
3. If it doesn't get sunshine, it'll still be there next year, and the year after that, and the year...
4. It's easy to replace a patch if a part gets destroyed. Some installers will even come do it for you.
5. There's cushioning under it for sports-minded kids (and adults), and fall-prone toddlers (and party animals).
6. It's very long lasting. Most turf wears for a minimum of 10 years.
1. It sure can get hot! Fortunately, a quick spray with the hose will alleviate that.
2. Because turf is petroleum based, it isn't eco-friendly, and could potentially lead to health issues, like asthma.
3. It can trap bacteria from animal urine & feces, so use a disinfectant if you have odors, or feel there's a problem. Some people use a spray deterrent 1-2 times a year to prevent animals from wanting to pee or poop on your turf.
Obviously, we are leaning towards artificial grass more so than not. We love the lack of maintenance, mostly. Obviously it's a personal decision, but give us a call to see what more we can tell you, and come up with a plan to suit your lawn and budget.