How to Decide Between Artificial Turf and Natural Grass

With rising water costs, municipality regulations, and owners strapped for time and money, artificial grass is making an appearance in more residential applications. Is turf right for you?

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Price quotes
• Product specifications
• Maintenance estimates
• Safety data
• Playability and use considerations

1. Consider both the initial investment and long term maintenance costs for turf versus grass. Artificial turf installation ma cost substantially more to install, but savings in maintenance and sprinkler systems ma offset some of this difference.

2. Obtain estimates or review contracts for maintenance before deciding between artificial turf and sod. Although synthetic turf does not require mowing, regular maintenance is required.

3. Research safety issues involving artificial turf and grass sod. Consider the potential for heat stress and abrasive injuries along with environmental concerns regarding toxic leaching, water use, and energy used in manufacturing.

4. Consider the ways your lawn will be used. Whether artificial turf grass makes sense for your application depends on factors such as durability in heavy traffic and playability in adverse weather conditions.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget comfort and aesthetics when choosing between artificial turf and natural grass.
• The right product will depend on the intended use of the turf and location specific costs.
• Get your information from reliable sources. Turf manufacturers and sod suppliers may provide biased data.

Resources

• Artificial Turf and Natural Grass Lawn Prices
• Synthetic Turf Lawn Maintenance
• Artificial Field turf Versus Grass Playability
• Artificial Turf vs. Natural Grass Injuries
• Artificial Field Turf vs. Natural Grass Safety