Little John's Lawns

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a typical American lawn requires about 20,000 gallons of water annually. Here in Arizona, that type of watering routine can be a costly endeavor, and the results many homeowners want to see are often hard to attain even with proper watering and maintenance. This is where artificial turf comes in. Let’s look at the basic pros and cons of having artificial turf to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your lawn.

What Is Artificial Turf Made Of?

Artificial turf, often referred to as synthetic grass, is a man-made product designed to replicate the appearance and feel of natural grass. It is composed of several layers, each serving a specific purpose.

Backing Layers: The foundation of artificial turf consists of multiple backing layers. The primary backing is typically made from polypropylene or polyester and provides structural stability. The secondary backing, often a polyurethane coating, secures the fibers in place.
Infill Material: Infill is a crucial component that sits between the synthetic grass blades, providing cushioning, stability, and support. Common infill materials include silica sand, crumb rubber (often from recycled tires), and organic materials like coconut fibers or cork. Infill also helps the turf blades remain upright and adds weight to prevent the turf from shifting.
Yarn or Grass Fibers: The "grass" itself is made from synthetic fibers, usually polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon. Polyethylene is the most common due to its softness and durability. The fibers are UV-stabilized to resist fading and can vary in height, color, and texture to mimic different types of natural grass.
Drainage Layer: Beneath the backing layers is a drainage system designed to allow water to pass through the turf and into the ground below. This layer prevents water from pooling on the surface, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.

Advantages Of Artificial Turf

Artificial turf offers numerous advantages, particularly when compared to natural grass, making it a highly attractive option for homeowners in Arizona. One of the most significant distinctions between artificial turf and real grass is its resilience to the region's challenging climate. In Arizona, maintaining a lush, green lawn is a tough task due to the extreme heat and limited rainfall. While there is no substitute for the aesthetics and comfort of a lush lawn, some homeowners may find the constant upkeep required in our area to be more trouble than it is worth.

Natural grass requires frequent watering, fertilization, and mowing, which can be both time-consuming and costly. Artificial turf eliminates the need for these intensive maintenance practices. It remains green and vibrant year-round, regardless of weather conditions, and doesn't succumb to the issues that often plague natural grass.

Benefits

Water Conservation: Eliminates the need for irrigation, drastically reducing water usage.
Low Maintenance: No mowing, fertilizing, or re-seeding is required, saving time and money.
Durability: Withstands heavy foot traffic and remains consistent in all weather conditions.
Aesthetic Appeal: Maintains a lush, green appearance year-round without the issues of natural grass.
Pest-Free Environment: Does not attract insects or rodents, reducing the need for pesticides.
Allergen Reduction: Hypoallergenic, as it doesn't produce pollen like natural grass.

Disadvantages Of Artificial Turf

While artificial turf has many advantages, it's important to recognize that it doesn't offer the same natural benefits as real grass. One of the key differences is the ecological impact. Natural grass plays a vital role in the environment by supporting local ecosystems. It provides a habitat for insects, birds, and other wildlife, and contributes to air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Real grass also helps regulate temperature by cooling the surrounding area through the process of evapotranspiration, where water evaporates from the leaves, cooling the air around it.

Artificial turf is made from synthetic materials, which do not break down naturally and may end up in landfills once the turf reaches the end of its lifespan. This lack of environmental sustainability is a significant drawback for those who prioritize ecological benefits in their landscaping choices.

Drawbacks

Heat Retention: Artificial turf can become extremely hot, making it uncomfortable and unsafe during Arizona's intense summer heat.
Initial Cost: The upfront cost of installation is high compared to natural grass.
Environmental Concerns: Made from non-renewable materials, it lacks biodegradability and can contribute to landfill waste.
Lack of Natural Ecosystem: Does not support local wildlife, nor does it contribute to air quality or natural cooling.
Installation Challenges: Requires professional installation to avoid issues like drainage problems or uneven surfaces.
Unnatural Aesthetics: Artificial turf is made to imitate grass, but many homeowners find that there is no substitute for the look and feel of real grass.

Best Uses For Artificial Turf

Artificial turf may be a superior choice over natural grass in certain locations and for specific functions, particularly where environmental conditions or the intended use make maintaining a traditional lawn impractical or undesirable. In areas where water is scarce, such as Arizona, artificial turf offers a sustainable alternative that conserves water and remains lush and green without constant maintenance. Synthetic grass provides a resilient surface that doesn’t wear down or become patchy like natural grass.

The low-maintenance nature of artificial turf also makes it ideal for locations where upkeep is challenging, such as shaded areas where natural grass struggles to grow or, conversely, excessively hot and sunny areas that scorch grass and soil. Below are some of the best areas to consider installing artificial turf.

Residential Lawns: Provides a green, lush appearance year-round without the need for intensive maintenance.
Playgrounds: Offers a safe, durable surface that withstands heavy use and reduces the risk of injuries from falls.
Pet Areas: Easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for areas where pets play and relieve themselves.
Near Patios: Adds a soft, green surface in areas where natural grass is difficult or impossible to grow.
Sports Fields: Provides a consistent playing surface that doesn’t require the upkeep of natural grass, ideal for high-use sports areas.
Around Pools: Creates a slip-resistant, cushioned area around pools that remains green and attractive without the maintenance needs of real grass.

Cleaning & Maintaining Artificial Turf

Cleaning artificial turf is a relatively simple process, but it's essential to follow a regular maintenance routine to keep it looking its best and ensure its longevity. Start by removing debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt using a leaf blower or a landscaping vacuum. Regularly rinsing the turf with water helps to remove dust, pollen, and small particles that can accumulate over time. For areas with pet traffic, it’s crucial to promptly remove solid waste and rinse the area thoroughly to prevent odors and bacterial growth. A common detergent can often be used to effectively remove stains. Over time, you may want to add more infill as needed to maintain the cushioning and stability of the turf.

Problems Still Lurk In The Weeds! Homeowners often forget that artificial turf, like grass, is still on top of soil that may become susceptible to weed invasions, potentially even leading to pests. Be sure to check along the edges of the turf and in the infill areas, and spot-treat affected areas with a herbicide if necessary.

Installing Lawns In Arizona

When it comes to installing artificial turf, professional installation is highly recommended over a DIY approach. Proper installation requires precise preparation, including leveling the ground, installing a drainage system, securing the turf to prevent shifting or uneven surfaces, and much more work that involves a high degree of skill. While DIY installation might seem like a cost-saving option, the complexity of the process and the potential for errors often lead to additional expenses and frustration down the line.

Though we still encourage our readers to seek professional assistance for their natural lawns before resorting to the fake stuff, we can understand the appeal of artificial grass in our area. If you are in the Gilbert, AZ area, Little John’s Lawns is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our sodding and lawn care services that will keep your Arizona property in great shape!