Fake grass is becoming more and more common due to its low-maintenance, picture-perfect features. Artificial turf has been used on sports fields for years, but has recently gained popularity for outfitting homes. While artificial grass of the past was notoriously fake-looking, newer artificial grass is manufactured to look and feel as real as possible, and people are taking notice. Homeowners are putting a lot of thought into choosing exterior features such as siding, windows and doors. They want their perfectly designed exteriors to have a gorgeous, maintenance-free lawn to match it. If you’re considering fake grass for your home, here’s what you need to know.
What is Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass is a surface constructed with synthetic fibers made to mimic real grass. It’s constructed with grass-like fibers or yarn – usually polypropylene or polyethylene. Quality artificial grass has several layers including a backing, cushioning, two or three draining layers, and infill, made from materials like cork and recycled rubber tires. More and more homeowners are using artificial grass for lawns, pool surrounds, play areas, dog runs, and rooftops due to its low-maintenance and clean-cut aesthetic.
Is Artificial Grass Right for You?
There are a few main reasons people make the switch to artificial grass. Here are a few signs it’s the right choice for you:
1. You think artificial grass looks just as good (or better) than real grass
2. You’re sick of mowing your lawn, and watering, feeding and fertilizing your grass
3. Your summer water bills are skyrocketing
4. Chemical fertilizers and herbicides are out of the question
Benefits of Artificial Grass
There are a number of benefits that come with artificial grass. It saves water since fake grass can’t grow, which is especially important during droughts and really hot weather streaks. It’s also very easy to maintain since you don’t have to mow, water or fertilize it, saving you time and money. You’ll also have the choice of varying colours, styles and heights so you can choose the perfect artificial lawn for your exterior.
Drawbacks of Artificial Grass
Although there are some noteworthy benefits of artificial grass, it doesn’t come without its drawbacks. First off, it’s an expensive, long-term investment, so you have to weigh the pros and cons. Although it’s more expensive to put in, you save time and money down the road since you won’t have to maintain it as much. If you have a cat or dog, artificial grass may not be the best choice. It doesn’t absorb or break down pet urine, so it’s prone to bad smells and will stink if you don’t hose it off regularly.
It’s also not completely maintenance-free. You’ll still have to spend time blowing and raking your fake lawn since weeds can grow in the dust and leaves can accumulate. Artificial grass heats up in direct sunlight and radiates heat to surrounding people, pets, trees and buildings, and it also can’t be recycled, meaning it ends up in landfills.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-maintain option for your lawn, consider the benefits and drawbacks of artificial grass and decide whether it’s right for you!