There are many different reasons that people switch over to artificial grass. Some reasons include increased awareness of water conservation or that less maintenance is required to manage an artificial lawn. Some people simply want their lawns to look green year-round instead of trying to fix or replace dried brown grass that eventually befalls natural turf and sod. Whatever your reason, there are some things to consider before deciding on whether or not to invest in artificial grass.

What You Need to Know

It’s Safer Than You Think

The first thing that draws people away from synthetic grass is the belief that it is highly toxic. Lead, for example, was a common material used to create early versions of artificial grass. However, modern models shouldn’t carry the risk of harmful or toxic substances, though it is still smart to talk to the company you plan to purchase from. 

On the other hand, purchasing lead-free artificial grass can also save you from toxic chemicals in natural grass, such as fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides.

It Looks Real!

Some brands of synthetic grass look so realistic that it’s a shock when people are told it’s not! Modern artificial turf no longer has the plastic-like look that older models were notorious for. It won’t be a perfect imitation, but you could easily fool most who are just passing by.

It’s Not Maintenance Free

While it’s true that you won’t need to worry about mowing, weeding, or watering, artificial grass is not entirely maintenance-free. Artificial grass still causes stains, almost like grease from a barbeque, and you’ll need to rake the blade occasionally to reduce matting from wear and tear. You’ll also need to remove leaves that fall on your synthetic turf. Otherwise, they could be ground into the turf, making them harder to remove. Fortunately, with proper care, artificial turf can from fifteen to twenty years.

It’s Pricey at First But Becomes Cheaper Overtime

The main thing that drives potential buyers away is the initial price tag of an item. However, one thing many people fail to realize is that while something may seem expensive at first, the investment can ultimately pay off. Synthetic turf falls into this category. On average, most artificial grass costs about $12.50 per foot to install, compared to only $0.40 per foot that sod costs.

At a glance, artificial turf seems much more expensive compared to natural sod and isn’t worth it. However, when you count the maintenance costs associated with natural sod, such as water, fertilizer, and other lawn-caring services, everything ultimately adds up, making artificial turf less expensive over time.

It Will Positively Affect Home Value

Using synthetic turf can be a smart decision if you live in an area that is usually hot and dry for most of the year. However, you should ensure that the type you purchase looks as natural as possible. If artificial grass looks too fake compared to most of the neighborhood, it could decrease your home value instead.

Talk to a local real estate agent to learn the facts. They will give you some insight into how artificial turf can affect home value in your area. Generally speaking, the nicer your home exterior looks, the more potential buyers you’ll attract. So a great-looking synthetic lawn may be worth it.

It’s Good For the Environment

One would think that the fake grass would be worse for the environment compared to its natural counterpart, but the truth isn’t so cut and dry. Just because something is ‘natural’ doesn’t mean it’s environmentally safer. Due to the high amounts of water and other chemical substances that people use to care for natural lawns, having real grass can actually be more damaging to the environment instead.

Not only can you save water and use fewer chemicals with synthetic grass, but sustainable infill such as cork, coconut fiber, and sand is also becoming more popular. There are many options to look into for an environmentally-safe lawn.

Beneficial For Pets

Your lawn is usually a pet’s favorite place to use the bathroom. This can be an annoying chore to deal with, but artificial grass can actually help alleviate that. Since it’s drainable and easy to clean, you won’t have to worry about pet urine ruining your lawn by leaving dead patches behind. Besides picking up solid waste, hosing down your artificial grass every once in a while will help wash away anything else.

Which is Better?

Ultimately, deciding which is better depends on your budget and preferences. Other factors to consider are your local environment and water availability. If you’d prefer less lawn maintenance but something that still looks nice, artificial grass is undoubtedly something to consider.

On the other hand, natural grass also has advantages. Natural grass, despite the maintenance, can help improve air quality and increase community appeal.

At the end of the day, it’s up to you whether you wish for a real or faux lawn. Consider all of the information above, and then do your own research on what company to purchase your turf or sod from.

Learn More Rock and Block Hardscape Supply

At Rock & Block Hardscape Supply, we have all the tools and professionals to assist you with any landscaping and hardscaping project you would like to do. Visit our stores in El Cajon or Temecula today, or look at our website at https://rockandblock.co/ to view our many offers and services. Let’s start your next project today!