Artificial grass (also known as synthetic grass) is something that you may want to consider since it has some interesting advantages. However, this does not mean there are no disadvantages that have to be considered. Artificial grass is made out of synthetic fibers that are coater with a polypropylene base silicone protruding. As you surely know, the idea is for it to look just like natural grass.
What many may not know is that artificial grass initially appeared in the year 1960. It was utilized as a preferred indoor MLB surface, together with potentially millions of US welcome mats. Nowadays, the technology is so much better than it used to be. We have artificial grass of a higher quality. The quality is basically higher in all production stages from maintenance to manufacture. We see so many landscapers that love using synthetic grass in residential projects and an obvious commercial application in airports or sports.
Should you consider using artificial grass for your lawn? In order to decide you should think about advantages and disadvantages.
Artificial Grass Lawn Advantages
It is interesting to notice that there are numerous advantages that could be mentioned. The most important ones for most people are the following:
- If the environment cannot accommodate natural grass, synthetic fibers are a great option.
- The use of artificial grass is always higher than with natural options.
- Lawn maintenance becomes a lot simpler, being practical for anyone, including the elderly.
- Really easy maintenance. All you normally need to do is hose with clean water, sweep or vacuum the lawn.
- Great for a swimming pool area or for a roof garden.
- You can include fibre-optic fibers in some of the commercial artificial grass that you would use.
Artificial Grass Lawn Disadvantages
Many of the disadvantages are associated with artificial grass lawns are connected with applications. You may thus need to think about the following:
- In some cases infill like sand, granulated rubber or silicon is needed for artificial grass.
- A periodic disinfection will be needed because different pathogens may not be broken down.
- Sun heat tends to be retained so the temperature would be quite higher than that of natural grass.
- Artificial grass and skin friction would cause much more abrasion than with natural grass.
- If line markings are needed, they have to be sewn into the grass. All line markings become permanent.
- The installation is much more permanent and it will be hard to remove it.
Choosing Artificial Grass Type
Most of the artificial grass manufacturers will offer 2 pile types: long and short. These would be useful for specific applications.
- Long Pile Applications – They normally require rubber or sand in-fill. The applications are secured by trenching or timber edge board attaching. You want to use this option in soft fall situations like child care centers or playgrounds.
- Short Pile Applications – You normally glue this to a preexisting surface. There is no need to have rubber or sand in-fill. You will want to use the artificial grass in areas of high traffic like pools, balconies, marine applications and displays.