While installing artificial turf may seem like the easiest thing in the world (especially compared to traditional lawn care), a successful artificial turf project doesnt just magically happen. It requires an investment of time, money, and research at the beginning. Part of that research is learning how to choose the right artificial grass for your specific needs. The turf you choose could make or break your artificial lawn in the long run.
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Lets take a look at the different factors to consider before taking the plunge and investing in artificial grass.
Key considerations when shopping for artificial grass
Kick things off by asking yourself the million-dollar question: Why do I need artificial grass? Just like a good pair of shoes, theres no one-size-fits-all solution to fake turf. You wouldnt wear flip-flops on a snowy hike, right? Similarly, an artificial lawn made for a playground might not be the best fit for your front yard or pet area.
Take a few minutes to consider your purpose and needs. Grab a pen and paper if you need to, and note down the following:
QuestionsYour AnswersIn which area will the synthetic turf be installed? Front yardAnswering all these questions will help you consider all the possible usage scenarios, which leads us to the next point.
Artificial grass terminology
Infographic by Juan RodriguezBefore you start wading through the vast array of artificial turf options, its worth brushing up on a few essential terms. Picking out shock-absorbent turf for, say, a playground requires slight variations in construction from a purely decorative surface. The weight, for example, would be higher to reduce the likelihood of injury.
The same goes for height and softness you dont want your kids to have a bumpy ride, do you?
Heres a quick tour of the artificial grass terminology you need to know while youre shopping:
Face weight
This isnt some obscure diet term! It refers to the amount of material per square yard, excluding the backing weight. Heavier face weight equals superior quality and durability.
The face weight of an artificial turf directly impacts its density and overall appearance. If youre looking for a turf that wont flatten (maybe for family football games on Thanksgiving), go with an artificial turf product with a higher face weight. This will make the turf feel and look more lush and resilient against heavy foot traffic.
Most artificial turf products range from 30 to 90 ounces per square yard, with residential turf facing tending to fall between 50 and 80 ounces. Remember, when youre shopping, prices will typically increase with the face weight of the product, so make sure you pick something that fits your budget and needs.
Pile height
Pile height, or blade length, is the measurement of how long the grass blades are. Just like face weight, the higher the pile height, the more lush and natural-looking your turf will be. The length of the grass ranges from about 0.5 to 4.0 inches.
For busy areas like playgrounds, go with a shorter pile height, as this makes the turf more resilient and less likely to mat or flatten. Shorter pile heights are also generally less expensive and require less maintenance. Typically, you should aim for a pile height between 2.5 and 3.0 inches for heavily used areas.
If your turf wont see as much foot traffic, get a blade length of around 3.5 to 4.0 inches for a plush and realistic-looking surface.
Infill
Infill is also important for the turfs weight. Without it, the turf can move around on windy days, resulting in an awkward look. Therefore, you should generally use infill for almost any artificial grass, though how much and which type you use will depend on the particular application. Heres a snapshot of the different infill options.
Crumb rubber: This is the most common infill used. Its made from recycled tires and is black in color. It tends to be the hottest infill in direct sunlight, so its perfect for areas that dont get much sunshine.
EPDM rubber (Ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber): It is a manufactured rubber available in any color. It is also very durable and low maintenance, with excellent shock absorbency, making it ideal for artificial turf for sports fields. However, it is more expensive than crumb rubber, as it is not recycled.
Pro tip: If you plan to go for a more eco-friendly option, rubber infill isnt for you. Unfortunately, EPDM rubber and crumb rubber come with several potential concerns, including:
Sand: This is the second most widely used infill, silica sand being readily available at an economical price tag. It tends to be slightly cooler in direct sunlight than rubber, but it is more abrasive if people fall and slide on the turf.
Durafill: While more expensive than sand, Durafill is an excellent infill option for high-traffic areas. It has less sharp edges, which are easier on artificial grass blades than regular silica sand. It has an antimicrobial coating that prevents microbes such as odor-causing bacteria resulting from pet urine.
Hydrochill: This is the coolest infill, using a coating to slow down heat absorption and shed it quickly. However, its still sand, so dont forget about its downsides: little cushioning, slightly more abrasive, and doesnt absorb shock.
Putting green infill: This is also technically sand and comes as a finer mesh version of Durafill. It helps putts roll smoother and faster and has a blend of green and black Durafill, making the artificial turf appear greener. It is used for various applications and is one of the best all-around solutions.
Zeofill/Zeolite: Zeolite is an organic infill made from volcanic ash minerals, considered the best for eliminating pet waste smells. Plus, its an absorbent surface that helps protect your turf from water damage. For this material, you should use a heavier infill, such as rubber or sand, as your base infill and then add a secondary layer of Zeolite on top.
The cost of an artificial turf infill varies greatly, costing anywhere from $0.30 to $0.90 per square foot, with putting green infill being the most expensive.
Backing
The unsung hero of artificial grass, providing stability, is often made up of two parts:
There are three main types of commercial backing:
Sub-base
This might not be an official part of your fake grass system. Still, its crucial sans proper sub-base, its goodbye to the flawless turf installation youve been dreaming about!
The sub-base is the layer of substrate you install directly underneath the artificial grass. It is most commonly made up of a sand or gravel mixture but also can be composed of concrete, asphalt, or even wood. The sub-base serves several purposes, including:
If youre unsure what to use, crushed miscellaneous base (CMB) and class II road base are the most common choices for landscaping applications. Decomposed granite (DG) is a more expensive solution but is preferred for golf courses and putting greens. Alternatively, check out ultra-base panels with their superior drainage performance.
Thatch
You cant talk about artificial grass without mentioning thatch. No, were not talking about straw roofs or natural lawn thatch here thatch is the term used to describe the shorter, curlier fibers of an artificial turf layer.
Thatch is usually a different color from the primary, taller blades. Its mostly used to make the product look more realistic by imitating the dying blades that occur in real grass. Plus, its playing a role in turf density since thatch is included in face weight, products without it tend to be much more dense at the top of the pile.
Depending on the manufacturer, the color varies from tan to yellow, green, and brown. The length of synthetic thatch also varies, which allows designers to customize the overall appearance and softness of the turf at different levels.
Artificial grass yarn
Yarn is the term used to describe the individual strands of grass on an artificial grass surface. Each yarn is usually made from one or more polymers and is designed to look like real grass blades. The polymers used can vary depending on the quality of the yarn, but most synthetic turf is made from polyethylene or polypropylene. Nylon is also used in some higher-end artificial turf products.
The yarn used in artificial turf is generally very strong and durable, as it needs to be able to withstand foot traffic and varying weather conditions. It also needs to have a realistic appearance, so the yarns are often given texturing to make them look like real grass blades.
Many of the products on the market today are UV resistant, meaning they wont fade in the sunshine, and they are also able to stand up to rain without seeping water or becoming bogged down. Here are some of the key features of each synthetic turf yarn material:
Despite having all these benefits, it does come with a high price tag, and it is not usually used for backyards or landscaping due to its cost. You can find it more often being used as a secondary thatch to help improve the stability of other artificial grass products.
When choosing an artificial grass yarn, its essential to look at the strength and quality of the turf. This is usually expressed in its density rating, which indicates how many strands of turf are present per square inch. A higher density will typically indicate a better quality product, but you also shouldnt skimp on the face weight.
Roll width
Typically, artificial turf is available in rolls that are 15 feet wide, and its almost always better to order too much turf than too little. This is because the cuts you make need to be exact, and any missteps in measurement will be much more noticeable in a large, open space.
When measuring a space for artificial turf, assume that the rolls will be slightly shorter in width by about 6 inches and also plan to have about 10 percent extra material for potential waste, fixing mistakes, and making cuts. If youre installing the turf on an uneven or slanted surface, you should also plan for enough material to make cuts and fit the material into the terrains curves.
*Note: Artificial grass rolls can be longer than 50 feet, but longer lengths can be difficult to fit through door frames and also hard to seam together in a seamless combination.
Pro tip: For a DIY project, try to fix the turf as close to one piece without making too many seams. Make sure the blades are all facing in the same direction and that you leave an inch or two extra for cutting.
Common types of artificial grass
Photo Credit: Takayan | Canva Pro | LicenseAnother important aspect to consider when choosing the right artificial grass is the type of grass. Depending on your intended purpose and the application, there are several common types of synthetic turf, each with characteristics that make them better or worse for certain uses.
Landscape turf
Highly realistic and usually made to replicate natural grass, landscape turf is usually the most expensive option but also the most natural-looking. It is typically made out of two types of yarns, the curly lower layer providing resilience and support while the long blades above replicate grass blades.
Due to its density, it also usually has the highest up-front cost out of all the other types. The main advantage of this turf is its realistic aesthetic, making it a great choice for homeowners who want a lush, natural look.
Pet turf
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Some artificial turfs are designed specifically to meet the needs of pets. The primary difference between a pet and regular turf is its antimicrobial agents that help minimize odors and its excellent drainage capabilities.
Pet turf is usually made without any synthetic infill, which makes it an ideal choice for homeowners who dont want to deal with rubber or sand infill, and it also ensures that urine or other liquids can be quickly drained away.
Sports turf
Unlike landscape turf, sports turf is designed to be tougher and more resilient to handle the rigors of regular and intensive traffic. Some types of sports turf are reinforced with infill usually rubber to promote a faster and more realistic ball roll, while others are just reinforced with woven fibers.
Sports turf is also designed to reduce the impact of falls and sudden stops and is commonly used for football and soccer fields.
Playground turf
Who wouldnt want a safe playground for the kids to enjoy? Its every parents number one goal, and luckily, theres playground turf that is specifically designed for playgrounds and daycare centers to promote greater play safety and optimal bounce.
This turf is usually made up of a combination of artificial grass and a soft foam backing, which helps to withstand wear and tear. It also usually doesnt require rubber infill, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective choice.
Confused by all of the artificial grass lawn options? Dont worry here are some top picks to get you going:
Compare & contrast features
Photo Credit: Kameleon007 | Canva Pro | LicenseOnce youre fluent in fake grass lingo, its time to play detective! Compare and analyze different turf offerings on the basis of thatch color, blade shape, pile height, density, drainage ability, and any antimicrobial properties they might have.
Whittle down your options based on where youll be installing the turf. For instance, heavy foot traffic areas need turf that can withstand all the stomping. Also, remember that not every shade of green is going to fit well with your natural surroundings. You want your lawn to look as authentic as possible, so pick a color scheme that mirrors local flora.
Dont miss out on assessing durability, too after all, you dont want your beautiful new lawn going kaput within just a couple of years.
Get samples
They say seeing is believing, but when it comes to synthetic grass, its more like feeling is believing. Request free samples from suppliers so you can get familiar with favored options before making the leap.
Check out subscription boxes most of them offer more bang for your buck and let you try out a whole range of options in an affordable way. And its much better to try lots of different options and find the perfect fit rather than deal with buyers remorse after a big-purchase blunder.
Calculate your budget
Crunch those numbers ahead of time. Artificial grass isnt the most affordable thing, but theres quite a variety out there for different budgets and purposes. Lay down your budget upfront so you know what ballpark youre playing in no surprises when the bill comes.
Besides the material itself, make sure youre keeping tabs on additional artificial grass installation process costs like:
On average, synthetic turf costs between $5.50 and $19.75 per square foot, including labor and supplies. But that cost can go higher if you opt for luxury or advanced styles of turf. Make sure you know whats included in a suppliers quote to check if its a balanced and realistic offer.
You can install artificial grass DIY to save on labor costs, but keep in mind that its not the easiest job in the world, and theres a possibility you could end up with a wanky-looking lawn if you dont follow all the right steps.
Climate considerations
Photo Credit: MartinPrescott | Canva Pro | LicenseArtificial grass doesnt need mowing and fertilizing, but its not entirely immune to temperature extremes and climatic conditions. Take the time to analyze average weather in your area choosing turf that can handle what Mother Nature throws at it is essential.
Rainy day blues got you worried? Check how your potential fake lawn can handle precipitation. Excellent drainage is critical to prevent unsightly water pools, mold, and mildew.
Hot and dry climates? Then, choose artificial grass with cooling technology to dissipate heat, making it more comfortable to walk on. However, to activate the cooling features, you typically need to wet the turf so do consider the cost of adding an irrigation system if necessary.
Lots of sun in your yard? Fortunately, some of the latest artificial grass models are engineered to prevent fading and are highly UV-resistant for longer-lasting brightness through the changing seasons!
Freezing climate? Artificial turf can resist freezing temperatures, but snow can be tricky. Pick out a robust and UV-stabilized synthetic turf to ensure youre all set for the winter months. Snow removal may still be necessary, as heavy snowfall affects the grasss appearance.
Regular maintenance
While artificial grass owners get more weekend lie-ins than those with natural grass lawns, tossing maintenance totally out the window isnt in the cards either.
Regular cleaning and brushing will help you keep your artificial turf in tip-top condition and extend its life expectancy. Otherwise, dirt and debris can clog the turf and affect its original look. Be consistent with brushing, or you may notice some flattening out not a good look! See our article on cleaning artificial grass for more insights.
Environmental impact of an artificial lawn
Its great to be eco-conscious and opting for artificial grass as a grass alternative certainly has its environmental benefits. All that water-saving, minimal maintenance, durability, and long lifespan can greatly contribute to a healthier planet.
However, its worth taking the time to consider your specific setup and potential risks (as with every major decision). From material production to disposal, every stage of the turfs life cycle should be considered when making an educated decision.
When youre selecting a synthetic grass product, investigate the different materials used and research best practices for installation, maintenance, and disposal or recycling. Some manufacturers are even creating eco-friendly turf from renewable resources like sugar cane to guarantee greater sustainability.
Learn more about the environmental impacts of artificial turf in our article: Is Artificial Grass Bad for the Environment?
Warranty watch-outs
Last but not least, remember to protect your investment by choosing a product with an extensive warranty. Warranties are especially important for big investments like artificial grass.
Ensure you educate yourself on the particulars and ins and outs of what is covered in your warranty policy. Its not just about crossing is and dotting ts knowing these details can save a heap of trouble later on!
Pro tips:
FAQ about choosing artificial grass products
What thickness of artificial grass is best?Theres no one-size-fits-all answer to that question! It really depends on what youre using your artificial grass for. Generally, a pile height of 3.5 inches works best for general landscaping or lawns, while a lower height is best for high-traffic areas.
What to look for when buying synthetic grass?Consider features like the face weight, pile height, infill, backing, thatch color, blade shape, and the type of grass. Additionally, think about your budget, your areas climate, and any labor or installation costs.
Which material of artificial grass is best?Again, this depends on the purpose of the grass. Nylon is typically considered the highest quality but has a higher price tag. Polyethylene is a popular choice for an artificial yard, often found in residential landscaping. Polypropylene is the least expensive option and best for indoor use.
What is the best artificial grass for children?Regarding artificial turf for playgrounds, youll want to go with something that can withstand a lot of foot traffic, isnt abrasive, and offers good cushioning. Polyethylene is an excellent synthetic option for these areas, and youll also want to consider safety features like foam padding. Avoid rubber infill, as it can be too hot or slippery for little ones.
Final thoughts
While choosing the right artificial grass might seem like traversing through uncharted territory, the selection process isnt rocket science. All you have to do is figure out your needs and goals, do your research to compare the characteristics of different products, and be disciplined with your budget.
Its worth mentioning that getting expert advice from specialists in the field can go a long way in ensuring you a successful turf project. Dont know where to begin your journey? Lawn Loves here to help! We connect homeowners with local lawn care pros who have the necessary expertise to make your green dream a reality.
Main Photo Credit: Dmytro Varavin | Canva Pro | License
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Luminita Toma is a nature-loving writer who simply adores pretty flowers and lawns. After plenty of research and writing on lawn care and gardening, she's got a keen eye for plants and their maintenance. When she's got some spare time, there's nothing she enjoys more than chilling with her friends, hitting the theatre, or traveling.
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