The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Lawn Grass Turf

Artificial lawn grass turf has come a long way since its introduction in the 1960s. Today’s synthetic turf products offer a realistic, low-maintenance alternative to natural grass that is growing in popularity for both residential and commercial applications. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about artificial grass - from its components and benefits to installation considerations and top brands on the market.

What is Artificial Grass?

Artificial grass, also known as synthetic turf, is a surface made from synthetic fibers designed to look and feel like natural grass. It consists of several key components:

Grass blades - Typically made from polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon fibers
Thatch layer - Curled fibers that mimic dead grass and provide support
Backing - Usually made of polyurethane or latex to hold the fibers in place
Infill - Sand, rubber, or other materials spread between blades for stability and cushioning
Drainage holes - Allow water to pass through

Modern artificial grass is engineered to closely replicate the look and feel of various natural grass species. The blades come in different lengths, colors, and textures to suit different applications and aesthetic preferences.

Benefits of Artificial Grass

There are many compelling reasons why homeowners and businesses are increasingly choosing artificial turf over natural grass:

Low Maintenance

One of the biggest advantages of artificial grass is its minimal maintenance requirements. With synthetic turf, you can say goodbye to:

Mowing
Watering
Fertilizing
Weed control
Pest management

The only upkeep needed is occasional rinsing to remove dust and debris, and brushing to keep the blades upright. This makes artificial grass ideal for busy homeowners or commercial properties looking to reduce landscaping costs.

Water Conservation

Natural grass lawns require significant irrigation to stay lush and green, especially in dry climates. Artificial turf eliminates the need for watering, which can lead to dramatic water savings. According to the EPA, a typical suburban lawn uses about 22,000 gallons of water per year. Switching to synthetic grass can help conserve this precious resource.

Durability

Quality artificial grass is extremely durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, pet activity, and extreme weather conditions without showing signs of wear. Unlike natural grass, it won’t develop bare patches or muddy areas. Many artificial turf products come with warranties of 10-15 years or more.

Consistent Appearance

Artificial grass maintains its lush, green appearance year-round regardless of weather or seasonal changes. You don’t have to worry about brown patches in summer or muddy areas after rain. This makes it great for achieving a perfectly manicured look with minimal effort.

Versatility

Synthetic turf can be installed in areas where natural grass struggles to grow, like heavily shaded spots or rooftops. It’s also ideal for indoor applications like sports facilities. The variety of blade lengths and colors available allows you to customize the look for different uses.

Environmental Benefits

While artificial grass is not a completely “natural” solution, it does offer some environmental advantages:

No need for chemical fertilizers or pesticides
Reduced emissions from lawn care equipment
Water conservation
Can be made from recycled materials and is recyclable at end of life

Cost Savings

Although the upfront cost of artificial grass is higher than natural sod, it can lead to significant long-term savings on water bills, lawn care services, and equipment. Many homeowners find that artificial turf pays for itself within 5-7 years.

Types of Artificial Grass

There are several types of artificial grass available, each with characteristics that make them better suited for certain applications:

Polyethylene (PE)

Polyethylene is the most common and versatile artificial grass material. It offers a good balance of durability, softness, and realistic appearance. PE grass is suitable for a wide range of residential and commercial uses.

Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene grass is generally less expensive than PE, but also less durable. It’s a good option for areas with light foot traffic or temporary installations.

Nylon

Nylon is the strongest and most durable artificial grass fiber. It’s ideal for high-traffic areas and sports applications, but tends to be stiffer and less natural-looking than PE.

Landscape/Residential Turf

Designed to mimic the look of natural lawn grass, landscape turf typically has a mix of blade lengths and colors for a realistic appearance. It’s ideal for front and back yards.

Sports Turf

Engineered for athletic performance, sports turf is denser and more durable than landscape varieties. It often includes specialized infill for shock absorption and traction.

Pet Turf

Pet-friendly artificial grass features enhanced drainage and odor control properties. Some varieties include antimicrobial treatments to prevent bacterial growth.

Putting Green Turf

Specialized short-pile turf designed to mimic the playing surface of golf greens. It allows for true ball roll for home putting greens.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Artificial Grass

With so many artificial grass products on the market, it’s important to consider several factors when making your selection:

Intended Use

The primary use of your artificial turf will largely determine which type is best. A backyard for kids and pets will have different requirements than a front lawn or commercial landscape.

Pile Height

Blade length affects both appearance and performance. Shorter blades (3/4” to 1-1/4”) work well for heavily trafficked areas, while longer blades (1-1/2” to 2”) provide a lusher look for ornamental lawns.

Density

Higher density (more fibers per square inch) generally means a more realistic appearance and better durability, but also a higher cost.

Color and Texture

Look for a mix of blade colors and textures that closely match the natural grass in your area for the most realistic look.

Drainage

Ensure the backing has sufficient drainage holes to prevent water pooling, especially in rainy climates.

Infill

Consider the pros and cons of different infill materials like silica sand, crumb rubber, or organic options.

UV Stability

Choose a product with UV inhibitors to prevent fading and deterioration from sun exposure.

Warranty

Look for products with comprehensive warranties that cover fading, deterioration, and excessive wear.

Installation Considerations

Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your artificial grass. While DIY installation is possible for small areas, professional installation is recommended for most applications. Here are some key steps in the installation process:

Site preparation - Remove existing grass/vegetation and create a stable, level base
Base layer installation - Add a layer of crushed stone or other aggregate for drainage
Weed barrier - Install a geotextile fabric to prevent weed growth
Turf installation - Roll out the turf, trimming to fit the area
Seaming - Join sections of turf using specialized tape and adhesive
Securing edges - Nail or stake the perimeter to keep edges in place
Infill application - Spread and brush in the chosen infill material
Brushing - Brush the turf to stand the blades upright

Proper drainage is essential for artificial grass installations. The base should be sloped slightly to allow water to flow away from buildings and prevent pooling.

Maintenance Tips

While artificial grass requires much less maintenance than natural turf, some basic care will help it look its best and last longer:

Rinse periodically with water to remove dust and debris
Brush the turf to keep fibers upright, especially in high-traffic areas
Remove leaves and organic debris promptly
Clean up pet waste and rinse affected areas
Avoid placing heavy objects on the turf for extended periods
Use a leaf blower to remove light debris
Periodically top up infill material as needed

Top Artificial Grass Brands

Several manufacturers have established themselves as leaders in the artificial grass industry. Here are some top brands to consider:

SYNLawn

SYNLawn offers a wide range of artificial grass products for residential, commercial, and sports applications. Their turf is made in the USA and features proprietary technologies for enhanced performance and durability.

TigerTurf

TigerTurf produces high-quality synthetic grass for landscapes, sports fields, and specialty applications. They offer innovative products like their BioCool technology for temperature reduction.

ForeverLawn

ForeverLawn specializes in premium artificial grass products for a variety of applications. Their K9Grass is specifically designed for dog areas with antimicrobial protection.

Global Syn-Turf

Global Syn-Turf offers a comprehensive range of artificial grass products to suit various needs and budgets. They have a nationwide network of authorized installers.

FieldTurf

FieldTurf is a leader in sports turf, providing artificial grass systems for professional stadiums, schools, and municipalities. They also offer landscape turf products.

Environmental Considerations

While artificial grass offers some environmental benefits, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks as well:

Pros:

Water conservation
Elimination of chemical fertilizers and pesticides
Reduced emissions from lawn care equipment

Cons:

Made from non-biodegradable materials
Can contribute to heat island effect in urban areas
Potential microplastic shedding

To mitigate environmental concerns, look for products made from recycled materials and those that are recyclable at the end of their lifespan. Some manufacturers offer take-back programs for old turf.

Cost Considerations

The cost of artificial grass can vary widely depending on the quality of the product and the complexity of installation. Here’s a general breakdown:

Materials: $2-$8 per square foot
Professional installation: $8-$12 per square foot
Total project cost: $10-$20 per square foot

While the upfront cost is higher than natural sod, artificial grass can lead to long-term savings on water, maintenance, and replacement costs. Many homeowners find that their investment pays off within 5-7 years.

Conclusion

Artificial grass has evolved into a versatile, attractive, and low-maintenance alternative to natural turf. With its water-saving benefits, durability, and consistent appearance, it’s no wonder that synthetic turf is growing in popularity for both residential and commercial applications.

When considering artificial grass for your property, take time to research different products and installers to ensure you choose a high-quality solution that meets your specific needs. With proper selection and installation, artificial grass can provide a beautiful, functional lawn space for years to come.

Whether you’re looking to reduce your water usage, minimize lawn maintenance, or create a pet-friendly outdoor space, artificial grass offers a compelling solution worth considering. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more realistic and sustainable synthetic turf options in the future.

Synthetic Turf