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FAQ
General Artificial Turf FAQs
There is no one “Best” artificial grass that will perform well in every situation. To find the best artificial grass for your particular needs, look at what duties you want the turf to perform. If you’re planning to replace your front yard lawn with synthetic turf then your needs are much different than someone looking to create a dog potty area in their backyard.
Very low activity areas need to address quality, density, and aesthetics whereas areas with mid-level activity or more should have a thatch product with a higher density turf installed. A high-density, thatch-based product recovers significantly better during activity and grooming.
Face Weight:
• 21-40 oz: Use this face weight for low to moderate-traffic applications.
• 41-60 oz: This face weight is great for moderate traffic.
• 61-80 oz: Choose this face weight for demanding applications and heavy traffic.
• 81-100 oz: Heavy duty option to withstand the most intense wear and tear.
Material:
• Nylon: (The Most Durable): Nylon is the most durable fiber used to manufacture turf. However, it does fade in direct sunlight, so it’s not a good choice for outdoor turf.
• Polypropylene: (Great for Outdoors): This material won’t fade in direct sunlight, and it’s softer and less abrasive than nylon. However, it’s not as durable as nylon.
• Polyethylene: (Eco-Friendly): Made from recycled plastic and glass bottles, polyethylene is both eco-friendly and more economical than nylon or polypropylene. It’s the softest choice of all, and it doesn’t fade in direct sunlight.
We recently published a detailed guide on “How To Choose The Best Artificial Grass For Your Space.”
This is usually the first question people have when considering artificial grass for their home, business, organization, etc. The cost of artificial grass varies significantly and is affected by a number of factors such as:
• Project Size
• Type of Turf (Turf Product)
• Prep Work Required
• Site Accessibility
• Project Complexity
• Location
• Infill Material
On average, for a 1,000 square foot installation, you can expect to pay around $8 – $16 per square foot. Due to economies of scale, smaller project will have a higher cost per square foot. Naturally, larger projects have a lower cost per square foot.
If you’re interested in learning more about artificial grass costs and the factor influencing turf costs, check out the following resources:
• Artificial Grass Cost: How Much Does Synthetic Turf Cost To Install?
• Artificial Grass Cost Calculator
• Putting Green Cost: How Much Does A Backyard Putting Green Cost?
Artificial grass does not stay as cool as natural grass which has water running through it, but it does not absorb and radiate heat like pavement, rock or brick. That said, the summer sun is hot, and any surface exposed to the sun long enough will heat up. To help lower the surface temperature of your turf, you have a few options.
• Spray with a hose or sprinklers to quickly cool the surface temperature of your turf.
• Use a cooling infill like T°Cool or HydroChill. Both infill materials work by trapping moisture and slowly releases it through the process of evaporative cooling. This can lower the temperature of your turf by 30°F – 50°F.
Most quality turf products have a 15-20 year life expectancy. Our warranty guarantees that it won’t fade or fall apart and that it will look great for years to come!
Not if it’s well made. Modern turf products feature UV protection incorporated into the material during the manufacturing process. The UV protection becomes part of the physical structure of the artificial turf and won’t wash off or wear out. It prevents the sun’s harmful UVA & UVB rays from damaging the turf fibers, preventing premature product degradation.
To learn more, visit our page dedicated to: UV Protection
Artificial grass is designed to drain water and pet urine effectively to prevent water from pooling and unpleasant odors. The drainage system typically consists of several layers:
• Backing: The backing of artificial grass is made of a “Hole-Punched” or “Fully Permeable” layer of polypropylene mesh with a polyurethane or latex coating, which allows water to pass through. The fully permeable, a.k.a. “Flow Through” backing is best for pet-friendly applications or in areas with heavy rainfall.
• Infill: Infill materials, such as silica sand or rubber granules, are placed between the blades of artificial grass. These materials help to keep the grass fibers upright and provide stability, while also allowing water to drain through.
• Sub-base: The sub-base material beneath the artificial grass is usually made of compacted gravel or crushed stone. This layer acts as the foundation of a turf installation and is permeable enough to allow liquids to percolate through the material and into the soil below.
When pet urine comes into contact with artificial grass, it is important to clean it up promptly to prevent odors and staining. Most artificial grass products can be easily cleaned with a hose or a mild detergent and water solution.
Overall, the drainage system of artificial grass is designed to mimic the natural drainage of real grass, ensuring that water and pet urine can drain away effectively, keeping the surface dry and hygienic.
Artificial grass used by reputable and trustworthy professional turf installers should not contain detectable traces of lead or other hazardous waste heavy metals. Concerns about lead in synthetic turf arose from studies conducted in 2007 and 2008, which found elevated lead levels in some synthetic turf fields. These reports led to the Center for Environmental Health connecting with turf manufacturers to put agreements in place that place a strict limit on the level of lead allowed in artificial grass.
Newer synthetic turf products are now available with strict limits on lead levels, reducing the risk of harmful lead exposure. We want to be clear that this does not mean that all currently available synthetic turf is lead free. Reputable companies will not knowingly sell you an artificial grass product that contains harmful levels of lead; however, if you work with a company that provides lower-quality products, it is still possible that newly manufactured turf may contain lead. It’s important to work with a reputable company to ensure that the artificial grass product is lead-free.
Yes. The sheen on your artificial turf will progressively diminish and go away. There are a number of factors that play a part in how shiny a product is, such as:
• Blade/Fiber Shape: A wide flat blade of artificial grass will reflect more light than a thinner fiber shape.
• Density: Low density products tend to be much flatter and more uniform in the direction they lie. This creates a much more uniform surface which will reflect and shine better.
• Material Quality: Cheap and low-quality plastic is processed more, is less pure, and is usually shiny.
• UV Protection: The UV protection incorporated into the turf fibers during manufacturing protects the turf by reflecting some of the UV rays.
Yes! Because synthetic turf has no organic matter or standing water, it’s an excellent pest deterrent. In fact, the installation process itself often removes and deters the presence of bugs and other pests. Once installed, it’s virtually impossible for pests to permeate the layers of sub-base, weed membrane, drainage materials and turf backing, giving you a pest-free lawn to be proud of.
Face weight is a term that refers to how many ounces of yarn are used per square yard of turf. The higher the face weight, the longer and more dense the turf blades are likely to be. A high face weight can mean that the turf has thick fibers, densely tufted fibers or taller fibers (if not all three). Face weight is one indicator of a turf’s density and durability.
Pile height refers to the length of your turf fibers. This is generally an indicator of how your artificial grass will hold up to high foot traffic. The shorter your turf’s pile height is, the more durable it will be. Longer blades of grass provide a more luxurious look and feel, but they can become matted and unsightly if overused. It’s important to strike the right balance to achieve your desired look while selecting a product that can withstand the appropriate amount of foot traffic.
Thatch is shorter fake grass blades that are typically a different color from the taller primary turf blades. For example, many turf products have varying shades of green as their primary blade tones and a brown or tan thatch. This provides added realism by imitating the dying blades that occur in natural grass while preserving a lush, evergreen appearance overall.
Infill materials are placed between the blades of an artificial turf lawn, filling in the otherwise empty spaces. Infill is traditionally made of silica sand, coated sand, EDPM, and TPE. A number of organic infill materials have recently been introduced to the marketplace. Organic infill is made with a variety of materials like coconut, walnut shells, cork, southern pine trees, etc..
Infill primarily helps the turf blades maintain their upright position and shields the turf’s backing from the sun’s UV rays. It also helps give artificial grass the feeling of natural sod grass, with infill mimicking how soil absorbs impacts. Infill also serves as ballast, weighing the turf down to prevent it from developing wrinkles, buckles, or ripples, extending the lifespan of your artificial grass.
Artificial grass consists of several components that are manufactured using different materials depending on their intended use. The three most common materials are: nylon, polypropylene, and polyethylene. Below is a brief overview of each material:
• Nylon (PA): Nylon is the most durable of the three materials and also the most expensive. It’s durability and resilience make it a good option for high traffic areas where durability is key. It fades in direct sunlight, and is abrasive, which can be an issue if you fall or slide on it.
• Polypropylene (PP): This is the least expensive of the three materials used in manufacturing artificial grass. While it may be budget-friendly, polypropylene isn’t very durable and has a very low melting point. Polypropylene is a good material for the “Thatch” layer of artificial grass.
• Polyethylene (PE): Most quality artificial grass products have “Fibers” that are made out of polyethylene. While more expensive than polypropylene, polyethylene provides a much more natural and realistic artificial grass that’s softer and more durable. Artificial grass that’s made of polyethylene is perfect for a variety of applications.
In addition to being aesthetically appealing and low maintenance, synthetic grass also aids in multiple aspects of environmental conservation.
• Water Conservation: In most parts of the country, natural grass needs to be watered several times per week to stay green and healthy. Artificial grass, by contrast, never needs to be watered to remain green, aiding in water conservation efforts.
• Less Chemical Use: Say goodbye to fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and other harmful chemicals when you switch to artificial turf. Harmful chemicals from natural grass maintenance products often seep into the soil and nearby water sources, potentially damaging the local environment. With synthetic turf, you can have a safer, family-friendly lawn.
• Reduced Air Pollution: Lawnmowers, leaf blowers, edgers and other gas-powered maintenance tools required for natural grass lawns all create air pollution. When you switch to artificial turf, you can get rid of those mowers and edgers, reducing carbon emissions and improving local air quality.
You can bet on it! More and more people are making the switch to artificial grass as it is becoming exponentially more popular. A home equipped with turf will likely attract more buyers and ultimately sell for a higher value. A custom artificial turf golf green in your backyard is certainly going to increase your property value and serves as a great selling point for your realtor to tout.
Learn about the countless other benefits of artificial grass.
A lot. Artificial grass conserves water and eliminates the need for mowing, trimming, and fertilizing your lawn. Recurring droughts and the rising costs demanded by landscaping companies ensure you’ll save plenty over time. Moreover, you’ll be saving something more valuable than money: your time.
One of the biggest benefits of switching to synthetic grass landscaping is its long-term cost-saving benefits.
When it comes to the initial investment, synthetic grass is more expensive, with costs ranging from $8 to $16 per square foot versus $1.50 for natural grass. However, most homeowners see an ROI in approximately 4 years due to the long-term savings.
“According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over one-third of residential water is used for lawn irrigation nationwide, totaling more than 4 billion gallons of water a day. The Southern Nevada Water Authority also estimates that every square foot of grass replaced with synthetic turf saves an additional 55 gallons of water per year. Therefore, an average lawn of 1,800 square feet will save 99,000 gallons of water a year if landscaped with synthetic turf – about 70% of a homeowner’s water bill, or up to $500.”
Nationwide, landscape irrigation is estimated to account for nearly one-third of all residential water use, totaling nearly 9 billion gallons per day!
In addition to water savings, you’ll no longer need to pay for fertilizers, pesticides, or gas powered lawn care equipment.
Artificial grass is extremely versatile and is commonly used at both residential and commercial properties. The most popular turf applications are:
• Pet Turf: The most popular application for artificial grass is for dogs. Natural grass and dogs do not go well together. From brown dog urine spots to randomly dug holes to muddy paw prints tracked through your house, it’s a losing battle. With pet-friendly artificial grass, those concerns are a thing of the past.
• Outdoor Living Areas: The versatility of artificial grass makes it a popular choice for enhancing outdoor living spaces. This is a broad category covering areas like rooftops, decks, balconies, patios, around swimming pools, etc.
• Lawns & Landscapes: Synthetic lawns add aesthetic beauty to any property, and allow you to save both time and money on watering and maintenance. With minimal upkeep, you can enjoy a perfect yard year-round in any climate.
• Backyard Putting Greens: Backyard putting greens are an increasingly popular choice for many home and business owners. Whether you’re looking to practice your short game or work on your chipping, a backyard putting green can be designed and installed to suite your golfing needs. It’s certainly easier than driving to the local driving range or golf course. Artificial turf putting greens can be completely customized, from the shape of the green to the breaks, you can even adjust the ball speed.
Yes! Artificial grass is safe for kids to play on. In fact, synthetic turf is arguably more safe than natural grass for kids. Fake grass provides a lush, soft surface that helps to absorb the impact from falls. Would you let your kids rip open a bag of fertilizer or pesticides to play with? Obviously not! Why is it okay for them to go and play on a natural grass lawn that’s recently been treated with those very same chemicals? An artificial grass lawn or play area eliminates the need to use any lawn care products so your kids will be safer than ever.
Turf Installation FAQs
Yes. You can install artificial grass by yourself if you have the proper tools for the job. However, we strongly recommend going with a reputable artificial grass installation company. Working with a professional turf company, you can rest assured that your synthetic grass will be properly installed and will last for years to come.
Artificial grass requires several layers of additional materials before the turf itself can be installed. This is why synthetic turf installation should generally always be performed by professional installers.
• Sub-Base: If you’re installing your turf on top of soil, you’ll need a sub-base to give your turf structural stability. This allows your turf blades to remain upright despite foot traffic to lawn furniture. Your sub-base is a layer of mixed materials, or aggregates, that create a smooth, compacted surface to support your lawn.
• Weed Membrane: Weed membrane is laid immediately under the synthetic grass. This mesh fabric stops any seeds from finding their way into the ground and germinating.
• Drainage: A drainage grid such as AirDrain is typically installed to elevate the turf above the sub-base. This 1-inch gap allows air to circulate and water to drain rapidly, enhancing the turf’s performance.
• Padding: Depending on the turf application, foam padding or a shock pad can be installed under the artificial turf to absorb impacts and prevent injuries. Padding is typically used on sports turf and kid-friendly applications.
No, artificial turf should NOT be installed directly on dirt. Soil expands and contracts with changes in temperature. Laying artificial turf directly onto dirt would result in divots, wrinkles, and likely flooding. Before installing artificial grass the top few inches of native soil will be excavated to make room for the sub-base material.
The dirt will then be flattened and topped with a base layer of crushed aggregate like Class II Road Base or Crushed Miscellaneous Base (CMB). The sub-base material is compacted to create a solid, stable, and permeable foundation for artificial turf. Depending on the application, the aggregate base may be topped with a finer base material like Decomposed Granite (DG) to provide a smooth, level surface on which the turf can be installed.
Yes, synthetic turf can be installed on concrete. Installing it directly on concrete would be a mistake though, as trapped moisture could lead to mold or mildew. To properly install synthetic turf on concrete, use drainage tiles to facilitate drainage. These tiles create a space beneath the turf that allows water to drain and allows airflow to keep the space dry. Each installation is unique, so you should check with a local turf supplier or turf installer to see what they recommend.
Artificial turf can transform the appearance of your driveway, giving it a more modern and luxurious look. Many homeowners choose to incorporate turf ribbons with concrete pavers for elevated curb appeal. To avoid rapid wear and tear, however, choose a turf variety made for high foot traffic and install it in areas that won’t receive much vehicular traffic.
Yes. Artificial turf can be installed just about anywhere, including on hilly terrain and oddly-shaped areas of your lawn. When installing synthetic turf on a slope, proper preparation is crucial. The ground should be graded and leveled to ensure a smooth and stable base. This helps prevent the turf from shifting or bunching up over time.
To secure the turf in place, specialized anchoring methods are used. These may include nails, staples, or adhesives specifically designed for synthetic turf installation. These anchors help hold the turf firmly to the ground, preventing it from sliding or slipping on the slope.
Additionally, proper drainage is essential to prevent water from pooling on the sloped yard. This can be achieved by installing a drainage system, such as a French drain or perforated pipes, to direct water away from the turf area.
By following these installation techniques and considerations, synthetic turf can be successfully installed on a sloped yard, providing a low-maintenance and aesthetically pleasing alternative to natural grass.
Consult your artificial grass installer for more details on your specific landscaping needs.
Each install is unique. Typically, a professional artificial grass installations take about 1-3 days to install depending on the size of the project. For areas between 300-500 square feet, installation can usually be completed within a day.
For larger yards of 1000 square feet or more, artificial lawns usually take 3 days to install. The time required to complete an installation is also influenced by a number of factors like the weather, crews experience, accessibility, drainage issues, etc. This is also assuming no complications with electrical work (yard lights) or irrigation systems (capping sprinkler heads or re-routing your existing irrigation system).
Turf installations can vary significantly depending on the type of turf, the quality of the materials used, and the skill of the installer. While some basic steps are common to most turf installations, there are several key factors that can differentiate one installation from another.
1. Type of Turf:
The type of turf you choose will have a major impact on the overall look and performance of your lawn. Consult with a turf supplier or turf installer to see what type of turf they recommend for your particular needs..
2. Quality of Materials:
The quality of the materials used in a turf installation can also make a big difference. High-quality turf is more durable and will last longer than low-quality turf. It is also important to use high-quality infill material for synthetic turf, as this will help to keep the turf in place and prevent it from becoming matted down.
3. Skill of the Installer:
The skill of the installer is another important factor to consider when choosing a turf installation company. A skilled installer will be able to properly prepare the ground, install the turf correctly, and ensure that the seams are properly sealed. This will help to ensure that your turf installation looks great and lasts for many years to come.
Turf Maintenance FAQs
Yes! Synthetic turf’s low-maintenance nature is one of its biggest benefits for property owners. You can always invest in turf maintenance products and services, but a light rinse and cross-brushing are sufficient for routine upkeep.
While it requires less maintenance compared to natural grass, it still needs some care to keep it looking its best and prolong its lifespan.
Here are some maintenance tips for artificial grass:
• Regular Cleaning: Use a leaf blower or a soft brush to remove dirt, debris, and leaves from the artificial grass. This helps prevent the accumulation of organic matter that can lead to odors and damage the fibers.
• Rinsing: Rinse the artificial grass with water periodically to remove dust and dirt. This can be done using a garden hose or a pressure washer set at a low pressure. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents, as they can damage the fibers.
• Brushing: Brush the artificial grass against the grain to help keep the turf fibers upright and prevent matting. This can be done using a stiff brush or a power broom.
• Infill Maintenance: Infill is the material used to fill the gaps between the artificial grass fibers. It provides support and helps the grass blades stand upright. Over time, infill can settle or be displaced, so it’s important to replenish it as needed.
• Weed Control: Weeds can grow through the backing of artificial grass, so it’s important to control them. Spot treatment with a weed killer can be used to eliminate weeds without harming the artificial grass.
• Stain Removal: If there are stains on the artificial grass, they can be removed using a mild detergent and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as they can damage the fibers.
For a detailed guide, check out our post about: Artificial Turf Maintenance.
We don’t recommend powerwashing your synthetic grass unless your installation doesn’t include infill. If you have artificial grass without infill, you can safely proceed with powerwashing.
If your installation does contain infill (the vast majority do), we recommend cleaning your lawn by rinsing it gently with a hose, spot cleaning with a soap and water mixture, or enlisting the help of a professional artificial turf cleaning service.
Artificial grass is extremely low maintenance, but performing occasional TLC will help you maximize the lifespan of your turf installation. Here are a few steps you can take to care for your synthetic turf lawn:
• Clear any debris like fallen leaves, branches and trash that may land on your grass. This will help it maintain a clean look and prevent matting.
• Gently spray down your lawn weekly to remove dust, dirt, pollen or pet urine.
• Pick up solid pet waste when your dog uses the bathroom on your lawn, and rinse it down to help pet urine drain quickly. This will help it smell fresh and remain odor-free.
• Clean any spills and stains with a mixture of mild soap and lukewarm water.
Artificial turf’s efficient drainage capabilities, make mold and mildew very rare issues with artificial grass. You are much more likely to experience mold growth with a natural grass lawn. However, to prevent any mold or mildew from growing, make sure that you properly care for your turf and remove any debris or other issues that could impede your drainage system. Also, opting for artificial turf and infill materials with antimicrobial protection will help to prevent the buildup of mold, mildew, and odor causing bacteria.
Since artificial turf is inorganic, its blades won’t stain from the bacterial components of pet waste. To keep your turf odor-free and in its best condition, pick up solid pet waste and rinse down urine as often as possible.
Artificial grass is extremely durable, but it can still be damaged with improper use and care. To keep your turf in its best condition, avoid using harsh chemicals and oil-based paints, as these can degrade the materials.
Remove any sources of open fire or hot coals. If you have a barbecue or firepit in your backyard, set it on the patio away from your synthetic grass to prevent embers or hot grease from landing on your lawn and damaging the turf.
Finally, avoid puncturing your artificial turf. Using stakes or anything else that will puncture your turf’s mesh backing can ruin its structural integrity and lead to loose seams, improper drainage, broken turf blades and more. If adding any permanent structures such as a fence, light post or jungle gym, consult your artificial grass installer for advice on how to proceed with these installations without damaging your synthetic grass.
No. Boiling water has a temperature of 212ºF, and synthetic grass begins to melt at 175ºF. To disinfect your turf or kill weeds, we recommend using products specially formulated for use on artificial turf landscaping.
Fake grass for dogs is designed to make cleanup easy. All you have to do is pick up any solid waste and give the area a quick rinse once a week to flush it. Avoid over-saturating the area with water as it can have the opposite effect.
To learn more about pet-friendly turf or its applications, we recently published a very detailed guide that you might find helpful: Dog Run Ideas: A Complelte Guide To Pet-Friendly Dog Potty Areas.
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