Benefits of Artificial Turf

Artificial turf has become a popular choice for many homeowners and businesses. It’s no wonder why, given its range of benefits.

Whether you’re tired of constant lawn maintenance or looking for a durable option for high-traffic areas, artificial turf offers a practical and attractive solution.

In this article, I’ll outline the key benefits of artificial turf, various use cases, and even delve into specific applications like disc golf and pet areas.

Why Choose Artificial Turf?

One of the biggest perks of artificial turf is how little maintenance it needs. Forget about mowing the lawn every weekend. With artificial turf, there’s no mowing required.

That means more free time for you to enjoy your yard, rather than working on it.

Another major benefit is water conservation. Natural grass lawns need a lot of water, especially in hot, dry climates. Artificial turf doesn’t need watering at all.

This can save a significant amount on your water bill and is also better for the environment.

You also don’t have to worry about fertilizing or using pesticides. Natural grass lawns often need chemical treatments to stay healthy and green.

These chemicals can be harmful to pets and kids. Artificial turf stays green and lush without any need for fertilizers or pesticides, making it a safer option for your family.

Durability is another standout feature. Artificial turf is built to withstand all kinds of weather, from scorching sun to heavy rain. It won’t fade or get damaged easily.

Plus, it handles heavy use well. Whether you have kids running around or dogs playing fetch, artificial turf holds up without getting worn out.

Plus, it can increase the value of your property by providing a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape.

One of the most appealing aspects is its consistent appearance. Natural grass can develop bare spots, turn brown in the winter, or get patchy.

Artificial turf looks the same all year round. It stays green and lush, giving your yard a well-kept appearance at all times.

Safety and cleanliness are important as well. Artificial turf doesn’t produce pollen, which can be a relief for those with allergies.

Use Cases for Artificial Turf

Residential Lawns:

One of the most common uses is in residential yards.

Homeowners love artificial turf because it looks great without the hassle of constant upkeep.

Your yard stays green and beautiful all year long, without the need for mowing, watering, or fertilizing.

Sports Fields:

Artificial turf is a popular choice for sports fields. It’s durable enough to handle heavy use and provides a consistent playing surface.

Whether it’s soccer, football, or baseball, artificial turf holds up well under the pressure of frequent games and practices.

According to SportingNews.com 15 out of 30 NFL stadiums use artificial turf.

Team(s)	Stadium	Turf or grass
Atlanta Falcons	Mercedes-Benz Stadium	Turf
Buffalo Bills	Highmark Stadium	Turf
Carolina Panthers	Bank of America Stadium	Turf
Cincinnati Bengals	Paul Brown Stadium	Turf
Dallas Cowboys	AT&T Stadium	Turf
Detroit Lions	Ford Field	Turf
Houston Texans	NRG Stadium	Turf
Indianapolis Colts	Lucas Oil Stadium	Turf
Los Angeles Rams/Chargers	SoFi Stadium	Turf
Minnesota Vikings	U.S. Bank Stadium	Turf
New England Patriots	Gillette Stadium	Turf
New Orleans Saints	Caesars Superdome	Turf
New York Giants/Jets	MetLife Stadium	Turf
Seattle Seahawks	Lumen Field	Turf
Tennessee Titans	Nissan Stadium	Turf

Playgrounds:

Safety is a top concern for playgrounds, and artificial turf provides a soft, cushioned surface that reduces the risk of injuries from falls.

It’s also easy to clean, making it a hygienic option for areas where kids play.

Commercial Landscapes:

Businesses use artificial turf to enhance the look of their outdoor spaces without the maintenance costs of natural grass.

Office buildings, retail centers, and hotels can all benefit from the clean, green appearance of artificial turf.

Pool Surrounds:

Around pools, artificial turf is a practical choice.

It’s non-slip, which helps prevent accidents, and it’s resistant to chlorine, so it won’t get damaged by pool water. Plus, it looks great and feels soft underfoot.

Event Spaces:

For events like weddings, parties, and exhibitions, artificial turf can quickly transform a space.

It provides a clean, attractive surface that’s easy to set up and take down. Plus, it can be reused for multiple events, making it a cost-effective option.

Golf Courses:

Artificial turf is used on putting greens and driving ranges. It offers a consistent surface for practicing putts and drives, and it’s durable enough to withstand constant use.

Schools and Daycares:

Play areas at schools and daycares see a lot of action.

Artificial turf stands up to the wear and tear of kids running and playing, and it stays safe and clean.

It’s a practical choice for creating a fun and safe environment for children.

Public Parks:

Parks see a lot of foot traffic, and artificial turf can handle it without getting worn out.

It provides a low-maintenance solution for keeping parks green and inviting, no matter how many people use them.

Here are a few well known parks that use artificial turf to great benefit of their community!

• Diamond Nation Flemington, NJ.
• Seoul International Park Los Angeles, CA.
• Erie Veterans Stadium Erie, PA.
• Ripken Baseball Academy Aberdeen, MD.
• Coleman Country Day Camp Freeport, NY.
• HERSHEYPARK STADIUM Hershey, PA.

Artificial Turf for Disc Golf

Artificial turf can be a premium option for disc golf courses.

Its durability and low maintenance make it a perfect fit for this growing sport.

Durability and Consistency:

Disc golf courses see a lot of foot traffic, especially around tee pads and target areas.

Artificial turf provides a tough, consistent surface that holds up well under constant use. Unlike natural grass, it doesn’t get worn out or muddy, so you get the same reliable footing every time you play.

Tee Pads:

One of the best uses of artificial turf on a disc golf course is for the tee pads. A stable, even surface is crucial for accurate throws. Artificial turf offers excellent grip and doesn’t shift or erode over time, unlike dirt or grass pads. This makes for a safer and more predictable launch area.

Fairways and High-Traffic Areas:

High-traffic zones can turn into muddy, uneven messes with natural grass.

Artificial turf keeps these areas smooth and playable, no matter how many players use the course. It also looks great, maintaining a green, inviting appearance all year round.

Greens and Target Areas:

The area around the baskets can take a beating. Discs landing and players retrieving them can wear out natural grass quickly.

Another way to combat this wearing is to try out the benefit of Disc Golf Nets.

Artificial turf provides a resilient surface that stays intact and looks good, even with heavy use.

It also helps keep the landing area smooth, reducing the chances of unpredictable skips and bounces.

Enhanced Player Experience:

Overall, artificial turf enhances the playing experience for disc golfers. It offers a consistent playing surface that improves safety and performance.

Plus, it reduces maintenance work for course managers, ensuring the course stays in top shape for longer.

Artificial turf is an excellent addition to disc golf courses. It provides durability, consistency, and a low-maintenance solution that enhances both the look and playability of the course.

Whether for tee pads, fairways, or greens, artificial turf helps create a top-notch disc golf experience.

If you’re serious about Disc Golf, check out Revolve Disc Golf.

Artificial Turf and Dogs

Artificial turf isn’t just great for people; it’s fantastic for our furry friends too. Here’s why it’s a pet-friendly choice:

Pet-Friendly Surface:

Artificial turf is soft and comfortable for dogs to play on. Unlike natural grass, it doesn’t get muddy, so your pets can enjoy the yard without tracking dirt into the house. Plus, it’s made from non-toxic materials, ensuring it’s safe for your pets to run, roll, and play.

Easy to Clean:

One of the biggest challenges with natural grass is dealing with pet waste. Artificial turf makes cleanup easy. It drains well, preventing puddles and mud, and waste can be easily picked up. For deeper cleaning, you can simply hose down the area.

Durability:

Dogs can be tough on a yard. They dig, run, and play rough. Artificial turf is designed to withstand this kind of wear and tear. It’s resistant to digging and won’t get damaged by your pets’ energetic activities. This means your yard will stay looking great, no matter how much your pets play.

Hygiene:

Artificial turf can help reduce exposure to pests and allergens. Unlike natural grass, it doesn’t harbor fleas, ticks, or other pests that can be a nuisance for pets. It also reduces the amount of pollen in your yard, which can be beneficial for pets (and people) with allergies.

Average Cost to Install Artificial Turf

When considering artificial turf, it’s important to understand the costs involved. While the initial investment can be higher than natural grass, the long-term savings and benefits often outweigh the upfront expense.

Breakdown of Installation Costs:

• Materials: The cost of artificial turf itself can range from $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on the quality and type you choose. Higher-end options tend to be more durable and realistic-looking.
• Labor: Professional installation typically costs between $4 and $13 per square foot. This includes site preparation, removing existing grass, leveling the ground, and securing the turf.
• Additional Expenses: Other costs can include infill materials (such as sand or rubber granules), edging materials to secure the turf, and any necessary drainage solutions. These can add an extra $1 to $3 per square foot.

Comparison with Natural Grass Installation and Maintenance Costs:

• Natural Grass: Installing natural grass is usually cheaper upfront, often costing around $1 to $3 per square foot. However, the ongoing maintenance costs can add up quickly. This includes regular watering, mowing, fertilizing, and pest control.
• Long-Term Savings: While artificial turf has a higher initial cost, it requires minimal maintenance. You save money on water bills, lawn care products, and maintenance equipment. Over time, these savings can make artificial turf more economical than natural grass.

Long-Term Savings:

• Water Bills: Artificial turf doesn’t need watering, which can save hundreds of dollars annually, especially in dry climates.
• Lawn Care Products: You won’t need to buy fertilizers, pesticides, or grass seed.
• Maintenance Equipment: No need for lawn mowers, trimmers, or other gardening tools.

In summary, while installing artificial turf can be a significant upfront investment, the long-term savings and reduced maintenance make it a cost-effective choice for many homeowners and businesses.

Cumulative Cost Comparison: Artificial Turf vs. Natural Grass

• Artificial Turf:
  • Initial Installation Cost: $15 per square foot
  • Annual Maintenance Cost: $0.50 per square foot
• Natural Grass:
  • Initial Installation Cost: $2 per square foot
  • Annual Maintenance Cost: $2 per square foot

Over time, the initial higher cost of artificial turf is offset by its minimal maintenance requirements, resulting in significant long-term savings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does artificial turf increase the surrounding temperature?

Yes, artificial turf can increase the surrounding temperature. This is because it absorbs and retains heat more than natural grass. On hot days, the surface of artificial turf can become quite warm. However, this can be mitigated by choosing turf with cooling technology, installing shade structures, or using water to cool the surface.

Is artificial turf safe for children and pets?

Absolutely. Artificial turf is made from non-toxic materials, making it safe for both children and pets. It also reduces the need for harmful pesticides and fertilizers. Additionally, it provides a soft, cushioned surface that can help reduce injuries from falls.

How long does artificial turf last?

Artificial turf typically lasts between 10 to 20 years, depending on the quality of the turf and the level of use. High-quality turf and proper maintenance can extend its lifespan.

Can artificial turf be recycled?

Yes, many modern artificial turf products are made from recyclable materials. When the turf reaches the end of its lifespan, it can often be recycled, reducing its environmental impact.

What maintenance is required for artificial turf?

Artificial turf requires minimal maintenance. Regular upkeep includes removing debris, occasionally rinsing to remove dust and dirt, and brushing the fibers to keep them upright. For pet areas, cleaning up waste and hosing down the area is necessary.

Is artificial turf environmentally friendly?

Yes, artificial turf can be environmentally friendly. It saves water, eliminates the need for pesticides and fertilizers, and reduces the use of gas-powered lawn equipment. Additionally, many types of artificial turf are made from recycled materials and can be recycled at the end of their life.