Everything You Need to Know About Artificial Grass

You might be old enough to remember the emergence of artificial grass into the American landscape. Developed in the mid-1960s as a surface for athletic fields, it was first installed in the Houston Astrodome in 1966. That’s when “astroturf” became part of the vernacular.

Here are a few fun facts: AstroTurf is actually a specific brand of artificial grass. But like Kleenex or Q-Tips, the brand name became the blanket term for all similar products. The 1971 Super Bowl at the Orange Bowl in Miami was the first played on artificial grass. Even the iconic mid-century modern home of The Brady Bunch had a backyard made of AstroTurf!

Today, this grass alternative has a lot more uses beyond the playing field, including residential. But it’s not without its detractors. If you’re considering installing artificial grass in your yard, here’s what you should know.

What is Artificial Grass

Artificial grass is fake turf made of synthetic materials like nylon, polypropylene or polyethylene. It’s constructed similar to carpet, with faux grass blades and a durable backing material. Artificial turf is made to look like natural grass and is used in sports fields, playgrounds, and has become popular in recent years for residential use. It’s a great choice for homeowners that don’t want the hassle of mowing or watering their lawn. Modern artificial turf looks so realistic, you might not even be able to tell it’s fake grass!

Types of Artificial Grass

Artificial grass is a synthetic ground covering made to look like real grass. It’s evolved over the decades and no longer resembles the fake-looking, plastic-y product it once was. But it’s still synthetic, still made of petroleum-based plastics. Here are the three types of artificial grass:

• Nylon grass is considered the most durable and long-lasting, but it’s also the most expensive. It’s the stiffest of artificial grass materials. So while it’s good for high-traffic areas, it might not be ideal for areas where kids or pets will be playing.
• Polyethylene grass has a realistic look and texture and is considered a good mid-range option for this type of lawn. It’s not as durable as nylon, but its soft feel makes it suitable for play areas and zones where people will be walking barefoot.
• Polypropylene grass is the least expensive but also the least durable. Because it can’t stand up to high traffic, it’s best used for smaller areas that don’t get a lot of daily use, like putting greens.

Where Can I Install Artificial Grass?

Artificial grass can go in a lot of places where you might have natural ground cover. It can also be used in places where a natural lawn wouldn’t be practical. Here are some possibilities:

• Front and back lawns;
• Under swing sets or other play areas;
• Around in-ground or above-ground swimming pools;
• Backyard decks and patios;
• As a border around sidewalks and paths;
• Roof decks;
• Putting greens;
• Outdoor entertainment/gathering areas.

Like many home improvement products, an artificial lawn has its positive and negative traits. Let’s take a look:

Pros of Artificial Grass

• It’s nearly maintenance-free. No mowing, fertilizing or aerating required;
• It’s evergreen. Artificial grass gives you a green lawn year-round, and you can even choose your shade of green;
• It looks realistic. Today’s options more closely resembles real grass, down to yellow-colored blades that simulate thatch;
• It’s long-lasting. A high-quality, well-maintained artificial lawn may last 20 years or more;
• It doesn’t need watering. You could save a bundle on your monthly water bill if you don’t have a lawn to irrigate.

Cons of Artificial Grass

• It’s expensive. Professionally installed artificial lawns costs between $5 and $20 per square foot. You can save money by installing it yourself, but the initial cost is still high;
• It gets really hot. In all its forms, artificial grass is plastic. It heats up under the summer sun, to the point where it’s uncomfortable to stand on or enjoy;
• It’s not as soft as real grass. Though higher-quality options look and feel like the real thing, it’s still more abrasive than real grass, and it’s not as soft for kids to land on when they fall while playing;
• It’s not that eco-friendly. Yes, it saves on water consumption, but the manufacturing process has a negative environmental impact. Plus, it’s difficult to find a recycling center that will accept old artificial turf;
• It might be dangerous. Studies have shown that artificial gas emits toxic gases, especially when hot. It also releases metals and microplastics into the air and water supply.

Artificial Grass Buying and Installation

Artificial grass can be professionally installed by companies that specialize in synthetic lawns, or you can DIY it if you have a team of helpers. Whether done by pros or your crew of weekend warriors, artificial turf installation involves excavating the area to be covered, removing rocks, roots and other debris, and compacting and screeding the surface. An underlay may be required.

Home improvement centers sell artificial turf, usually in rolls that are quite heavy. Installation is not a one-person job. Provide your pup with a soft plot of green all year round. Here are our picks for the best artificial turf for dogs.

Artificial Grass Maintenance and Cleaning

Artificial grass is low maintenance, but not maintenance-free. Here are the most basic cleaning and maintenance steps to prolong the life of your synthetic lawn:

• Clean up stains and spills right away using a mild household detergent. You can add a few drops of ammonia for tougher stains.
• If your pets do their business on your artificial lawn, pick up solid waste as soon as possible and hose down the area, as well as any places where animals urinate.
• Hose down the lawn periodically to wash away accumulated dirt and debris.
• Rake the lawn with a soft, non-metal rake, for cleaning and to preserve the lift of the fibers.
• For superior cleaning, consider investing in a leaf-blower with a vacuum function.

FAQs

How do I pick the best artificial grass for my yard?

The right artificial grass for your yard depends on weather and day-to-day use.  “High traffic sections need a densely woven, high-density grass that will not mat, while decoration areas can support longer, more feathery blades,” says artificial turf expert David Barbera. “If you live somewhere hot, go for heat-resistant fibers, or you will end up with a lawn too hot to walk on barefoot.”

How do I know which artificial grass is right for me?

To decided on the right type of turf you’ll need to consider the look you’re going for, as well as what kind of wear and tear is to be expected. “I always start by asking for pets, play, lounging, or looks,” says Barbera. “For pets, you need turf with good backing, drainage holes, and infill that is easy to clean. For children, use shorter pile and softer, springy blades that will not mind rough play.”

About the Expert

• David Barbera is the President of Artificial Turf Supply and a dedicated expert in gardening and outdoor design. David specializes in creating stunning, sustainable outdoor spaces using innovative landscaping solutions.