Why High Schools and Recreation Centers Are Choosing Artificial Grass

1. May 22, 2017 Why High Schools and Recreation Centers Are Choosing Artificial Grass Image 1Artificial Grass Athletic Fields Are Great For Local High Schools Across the country, more and more high schools are opting to convert their fields from natural to synthetic turf. Although the playing surfaces are comparable, this move has little to do with surface preference. It is being prompted by necessity. With increasing field demands and dwindling budgets, these institutions are choosing a solution which gives them durability and cost savings. Page | 1

2. More Competition for Less Fields In years past, high school fields were ruled by the football team. Very few other sports competed for practice time. Now, with the gaining popularity of sports such as lacrosse and soccer demanding equal space, and the rise of women’s field sports as equal to the boys, fields are overbooked. High Maintenance Costs are Bad for the Budget The cost of maintaining natural grass subjected to that much wear is high. New grass is planted between seasons and watering schedules are extended, but still, the blades die. This leads to even more costly sod replacement, and the cycle begins again immediately. Artificial Turf to the Rescue Schools and rec centers are turning to artificial grass to solve their problems. Although more expensive up front, once the turf is installed the maintenance costs are very low. Plus, if the facility has lights, synthetic turf can be used around the clock. Improvements Have Been Made in Durability, Safety, and Drainage Improvements in materials have made artificial turf even more durable than ever, with many brands offering warranties over ten years. For a center with a tight budget, virtually eliminating maintenance costs on a major amenity is something which can’t be ignored. At one time, safety concerns prevented artificial turf from being widely installed. Now, recent advances in the industry have quelled those doubts, and the surface is ready for use by athletes across the country. More than 50 studies have concluded that artificial turf is a safe alternative to natural grass. Synthetic field manufacturers and installers have worked hard to improve the product. Now, armed with knowledge about effective drainage strategies and safer playability, artificial turf is a great option for fields that see excessive use throughout the year. Creative Solutions to Financing Page | 2

3. For schools that struggle to afford the installation of a new synthetic field, creative solutions are being found. In many cases, partnering with local government provides the resources necessary to give athletes a place to play. In mutually beneficial agreements, schools are soliciting part of the cost of a new field and giving access to the facility to recreation centers for after-school, weekend, and summer programs. With the explosion of different high school sports, schools are fighting to provide adequate venues. To provide safe playing surface to student-athletes in all sports, a more durable playing surface must be used. Although more expensive initially, long-term maintenance costs are much lower than natural grass. With the help of the community, high schools are moving toward a safe and forward-thinking alternative by choosing artificial turf for their athletic grounds. About Denver Artificial Grass Pros: We install artificial turf solutions for residential, business, and government clients looking for durable and cost-effective solutions for their outdoor spaces. We use the best products from manufacturers around the world to ensure quality installations with industry leading warranties. Our experience sets us apart as a premium provider of artificial turf installation services. Sources: FAQs, SyntheticTurfCouncil.org For Schools, Artificial Turf Fields Grow in Popularity, WashingtonPost.com Page | 3