Artificial turf is trending in neighborhoods around the Midwest. And it has many people asking, “Which is better–grass or artificial turf?” As with any landscaping decision, personal preference has much to do with your choice. However, artificial turf offers many benefits for homeowners that you may not have previously considered. This post will explain the benefits of using artificial turf in your backyard and offer some ideas on incorporating artificial turf into your landscaping.
Maintenance-Free
One of the best things about artificial turf is that it is virtually maintenance-free compared to a natural lawn. With synthetic grass, there is no mowing, weeding, re-seeding, or fertilizing. Aside from the occasional sweep and rinse your artificial turf will last up to 15 years with little upkeep. Artificial turf lawn has small holes and irrigation channels to prevent puddling and ensure proper drainage, so you won’t have to worry about water damage. With synthetic turf in your backyard, you can enjoy lower maintenance costs and more time relaxing in your outdoor living space.
Water Conservation
Because synthetic grass does not require regular watering like natural grass, choosing it helps conserve water, especially in regions facing water scarcity or areas with water restrictions. It can significantly reduce water bills and contribute to overall water conservation efforts. Since it doesn’t need regular watering, it helps conserve significant water over time. This eco-friendly aspect of artificial turf makes it an appealing option for environmentally conscious homeowners. You also won’t need harmful weed killers and fuel-consuming lawnmowers to keep your backyard looking great.
Year-Round Beauty
Artificial turf can enhance the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space. Synthetic grass is not affected by changes in weather conditions and temperature. While natural grass inevitably turns dull or brown in the Indiana winter or during periods of drought and extreme heat in the summer, artificial turf remains lush and verdant all year round, regardless of how much or how little rain falls. It also provides a uniform and visually appealing lawn without the unevenness, weeds, or bare spots that can occur with natural grass.
Hypoallergenic
Natural grass can trigger allergies in some individuals due to pollen, grass clippings, or other allergens. Artificial turf provides a hypoallergenic surface, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and creating a more comfortable environment, especially for individuals with grass allergies. With artificial turf in your backyard, allergy sufferers can more comfortably enjoy your outdoor living space.
Great for Kids and Pets
If you have children or pets who like to play outside, consider synthetic grass for certain high-traffic areas of your yard. Mud puddles, dirty footprints, holes in the ground, grass stains, discolored patches of lawn – these are the things you won’t have to worry about with artificial turf in your backyard. While kids and pets can cause wear and tear on a natural grass lawn, your synthetic grass is durable enough to withstand them. Turf won’t get muddy, which means dirty footprints won’t get tracked into your house. Artificial grass also won’t attract ticks, spiders, and other insects that make their home near the ground and can cause painful or itchy bites. And, because artificial turf doesn’t require pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers, it provides a safe, non-toxic environment for children and pets.
Great for Recreation
You can turn your backyard into the ultimate recreational space with artificial turf. Natural grass lawns can be uneven and prone to muddy patches and puddles, making them less than ideal for recreational activities. Synthetic grass, conversely, won’t get muddy and provides a smooth, even ground for all kinds of activities. For example, you can have your own putting green in your backyard. Or, you can install a soccer field, tennis court, pickleball court, or other recreational area where family and friends can play together.
Versatile, Modern, and Aesthetically Pleasing
With artificial turf, you can enjoy a beautifully manicured backyard oasis all year round. Artificial turf looks like natural grass, only better because it maintains its fresh, healthy look. Synthetic grass can be used in all sorts of applications, so whether your home has a traditional farmhouse look or a sleek, modern aesthetic, artificial turf can be incorporated into your overall design. Add some greenery to your poolside deck with synthetic turf, or create an outdoor dining area more cozy than concrete. If you have an unusually shaped landscaped area of your backyard where grass won’t grow, you can add some green with synthetic turf to make the space look more natural and inviting.
Contact Aspen Outdoor Designs to learn more and get design ideas for upgrading your backyard with artificial turf.