Artificial grass is gaining popularity because it fits better in contemporary, busy lives. The reason, artificial turf is a lot easier and faster to install than conventional lawns, and it requires almost zero continuous maintenance. Natural grass also comes with its merits, and you will have to deal with certain trade-offs when choosing the best to use in your lawn. This article aims to present an honest take on the pros and cons of both of these options, so that readers can make an informed choice for themselves when it comes to artificial turf vs natural grass.
Advantages And Disadvantages of Artificial Grass
Pros of Artificial Grass
Water Conservation
One of the main artificial turf benefits is that it reduces the need to water the grass every now and then. This not only conserves large volumes of water but also helps save water bills and promotes water-conserving landscaping efforts, particularly in hot and water-strapped areas.
All-Weather Use
Artificial turf stays green throughout the year and is virtually weather-resistant. It means it can be utilized all year round. Such a type of all-weather lawn can also be dried out quickly in case of heavy rains, without having to worry about flooding and standing water.
Extensive Applications
Artificial grass is one of the most useful property additions for any home or business owner. It is not only beautiful in the garden, but also has numerous applications and settings outside of it. Synthetic grass installation also looks beautiful on decks, pool sides, roof terraces, play areas, balconies, restaurants, hotels, sports fields, etc.
Pets and Kids Friendly
Synthetic turf is great because you have the option of anti-bacterial artificial grass to reduce germ and bacteria proliferation. It is neat and tidy, as well as plush and cushioned for your pets to play on. In addition to that, synthetic grass for pets needs no chemicals or pesticides to stay in place, so it is a much safer option than the natural grass alternatives.
Cost-Effective Solution
When the revenue generated from the external bookings is considered, artificially synthesized commercial turf pitches are proven to be a lifeline to schools and clubs. Their high foot traffic resistance, greater lifespan, and the maintained performance and safety throughout the life cycle are some lucrative plus points.
Apart from the commercial aspect, the positive impact of synthetic turf on your home front is even greater. It includes lack of mowing, no watering and no fertilizing, which can surely save your family lots of money.
Cons of Artificial Grass
The Installation Cost
The initial cost of an artificial lawn project is not a small amount that can be ignored. Most homeowners will spend money on counseling, purchasing artificial grass and professional installation to achieve the best outcomes. The price of a project will be determined by where you want to lay artificial turf. All Star Construction provides consultation services at no cost to anyone looking for synthetic turf.
Artificial Grass Heats Up in Hot Weather
When exposed to extreme heat, synthetic grass often heats up. Although it does not inflict any burns, it can still be a bit uncomfortable to be on. But the good news is that it is not very hard to keep your artificial lawn for pets cool on a hot summer day. You just need to periodically sprinkle cool water on it and maintain consistent shade during the hot period of the day.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Natural Grass
Pros of Natural Grass
Purification of Air
A live lawn will filter dust and dirt out of the atmosphere, absorb carbon dioxide, make oxygen and improve air quality in your home’s environment. In addition to that, harmful pollutants are also broken down by the microbes present in the natural soil.
Natural Grass Lasts for Long
You should go for a natural lawn if you like spending your weekends in the garden and taking care of your outdoor space. The more effort and energy you put into a natural lawn, the more reward you will get back. A properly maintained natural lawn can last for several years or even decades.
Biodiversity Support
A natural lawn is very helpful in maintaining biodiversity, providing a home and food to a wide variety of insects, birds and small creatures. It boosts the delicate ecological balance of the local environment.
Cons of Natural Grass
Lacks in Durability
Natural grass turf is not sturdy enough to support repeated use and trampling. Although it can withstand moderate foot traffic, it is always recommended to keep your natural grass lawn as free as possible. Thus, it is not an appropriate option for kids’ play, homes with pets, businesses, and other places of high foot traffic.
It Can Lose Form Easily
If the grass is natural, it means that its condition is severely influenced by the environment and the changing weather patterns in different seasons. As a result, a natural grass lawn that is not well maintained may lower the value of your property, breed pests, and even become fungal.
Artificial Turf vs Natural Grass Cost Comparison
Natural Grass
Complex maintenance work results in high overall expenses. It includes water, traditional fertilizers and seeds at recurrent cost. Also, the tools like lawnmower, weeder, and strimmer are both expensive to purchase and to maintain. Moreover, in order to do proper maintenance, you might also need to get a local landscaper.
Artificial Turf
When it comes to artificial turf installation, initial costs may be more expensive than those of natural turf. However, artificial turf costs are negligible when it comes to maintenance expenses. Hence, it can be a valuable long term investment for your home or business with minimal upkeep.
Conclusion
Some people are amateur gardeners who love tending to their gardens and keep them well-maintained. They take pride in how their lawn looks, and love to mow it on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Several natural grass options are a perfect fit for the lawns of individuals like these.
But, for all commercial purposes and for those who love spending a free weekend, artificial turf is the solution to go for. Additionally, artificial grass is the best choice in places where there is a limited water supply or when an individual has a busy schedule that involves work and travelling.
All Star Construction Group specializes in different types of artificial turf solutions in Arlington and across Texas. Get in touch with us today to give yourself a safe, pet and family-friendly alternative to natural grass.
FAQs
What are the primary advantages of artificial over natural grass?
Artificial grass does not require any mowing or watering, uses less water, can be used all year round and is pet and kid-friendly.
What are the main disadvantages of artificial grass?
It is more expensive to install, and capable of absorbing heat in hot weather, but quality options can alleviate this.
Which one is superior between artificial and natural grasses, and which one suits busy homeowners better?
Artificial grass suits busy lifestyles because the grass does not require much maintenance and has a green look throughout the year without the need to care for it.
