Interesting Facts about Artificial Turf that You Need to Know

1. June 27, 2017 Interesting Facts about Artificial Turf that You Need to Know When you hear the term “artificial turf,” the first thing that most likely comes into your mind is a soccer field covered with AstroTurf. Did you know that the same material in now being used in residential properties, too? There are a number of benefits to using artificial grass that you need to know. 1

2. What is it made of? Artificial grass is made up of polymer and an infill of sand and/or crumb rubber to make it softer and bouncier to walk on. Artificial grass was invented in 1964 as an answer to covered athletic areas that didn’t receive enough sunlight to support natural grass. There are many different types available and the quality depends on how many yarns or blades of grass there are per square inch, whether or not the blade heights are uniform, and how the seams are treated. How does it function, and how is it installed? Artificial grass is designed to look and feel like natural grass. It’s green like real grass yet soft like fabric. It can also soak up water, which is why it is important to consider drainage when installing one. Most lands have to be excavated at least 5 inches to allow for drainage. In a manner similar to a carpet, artificial turf is cut to fit beforehand and then nailed down to secure it into place. The infill is then added. Where is it used? Artificial turf usage isn’t limited to commercial spaces like sports fields; recent advances in its development mean it has also become practical for residential usage, being installed in backyards and other spaces outside homes. How does it benefit you? Since artificial grass isn’t natural grass, you don’t need to water it to keep it alive. Switching to artificial grass can save you 15% on your water bill due to reduced usage. The cost of maintaining your lawn is lower; artificial grass never grows, so it never needs mowing; you can save thousands of dollars over your lawn’s lifetime because it simply doesn’t require many of the maintenance costs associated with having a traditional lawn. What does the upkeep involve? Although you’ll spend less time maintaining an artificial lawn compared to a natural one, you will still have to spend some time for the maintenance. This includes raking leaves and other 2

3. debris from the lawn to maintain its neat appearance, and since artificial grass blades can be beaten down by foot traffic, you should also brush the blades occasionally. Artificial lawns also need to be sprayed clean and disinfected since they don’t have the self-sanitizing ability that natural grass does. Yes, artificial lawns may require some adjustment, but they are a great option to consider if you’re looking to save money and time on maintenance and still have a great-looking lawn. About Dallas Artificial Grass Experts: Dallas Artificial Grass Experts is a Dallas-based artificial turf company that installs artificial lawn material for residential and commercial spaces. We believe that artificial grass is a better option than a natural lawn because it costs less to maintain, reduces water consumption, and minimizes environmental impact while looking and behaving like real grass. Sources: Things You Should Know About Artificial Grass, Homeguides.sfgate.com Hardscaping 101: Artificial Grass, Gardenista.com 3